Chicken thighs with quince

Chicken Thighs with Quince - a Savory and Unique Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Who would have thought that such an apparently unusual combination, like chicken thighs and quince, could give rise to a delicious meal? This recipe combines the rich flavors of the meat with the subtle sweetness of quince, creating a dish that will surprise and delight the taste buds. Chicken thighs with quince are perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion.

The history of this recipe is tied to culinary traditions that emphasize the combination of meat with fruits, a practice that has been appreciated over time for the complexity of flavors it offers. The quince, a fragrant fruit that is rarely used in gastronomy, will leave its mark on this dish, transforming it into a memorable culinary experience.

Necessary ingredients:

- 6 chicken thighs
- 1 medium ripe quince
- 250 ml dry white wine
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon hot or sweet paprika (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- 2-3 drops of soy sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Preparation of the ingredients:

1. Meat: Start by washing the chicken thighs well under cold running water. Make sure to let them drain to remove excess water. This will help achieve a crispy crust during baking.

2. Seasoning: In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, paprika (whether sweet or hot, depending on your preference), and dried dill. Use this mixture to season the chicken thighs, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.

3. Quince: Peel the quince and cut it into cubes. The quince should be ripe, as it will release juices and flavors during baking.

Preparation of chicken thighs with quince:

1. Arranging in the baking dish: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish, making sure to leave enough space between them to allow warm air to circulate. Drizzle them with a few drops of olive oil to add extra flavor and prevent sticking.

2. Adding the wine: Pour the dry white wine over the thighs, followed by a splash of water (about 100 ml) to maintain moisture during baking. This will help achieve tender and juicy meat.

3. Including the quince: Distribute the quince cubes evenly over the chicken thighs. The quince will add a sweet and fragrant note, perfectly complementing the meat.

4. Baking: Place the dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for about 1 hour. Every 20 minutes, open the oven and baste the thighs with the sauce from the dish. This step is essential to keep the meat moist and intensify the flavors.

Finalizing and serving:

After the chicken thighs have been baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This step allows the juices in the meat to redistribute, ensuring that each bite will be full of flavor.

For serving, place each piece of chicken on a platter, alongside a few caramelized quince cubes. It is recommended to serve this dish with a side of rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables, all being excellent options that will complement the meal.

Useful tips:

- For an even more intense flavor: Add a few sprigs of rosemary or sage to the baking dish to enrich the aroma.
- Spicy version: If you like spicy food, you can add a few slices of hot pepper alongside the thighs for an extra kick.
- Replacing the wine: If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, you can use apple juice or chicken broth instead of wine. These will add a pleasant flavor and maintain moisture.

Nutritional benefits: Chicken thighs are an excellent source of protein, being very filling and nutritious. Quince, on the other hand, is rich in antioxidants and vitamins, having beneficial effects on the digestive and immune systems.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other parts of the chicken? Absolutely! This recipe works very well with chicken breast or wings as well. The baking time will vary, so make sure to check if the meat is well cooked.

2. What other side dishes can I use? Besides rice, you can opt for quinoa, couscous, or even a fresh green salad, which will provide a pleasant contrast to the warm dish.

3. Is this recipe suitable for making in advance? Yes! Chicken thighs with quince can be prepared a day in advance, and the flavor will become even more intense as the flavors meld.

This chicken thighs with quince recipe is not just a simple meal, but a culinary experience that blends tradition with innovation. Don't hesitate to experiment and put your personal touch on this dish! Enjoy your meal!