Chicken thighs with spinach

Chicken Thighs with Spinach - a delicious and comforting recipe

Who doesn't love a flavorful and juicy dish that brings together rich tastes and healthy ingredients? Chicken thighs with spinach are a perfect choice for a tasty dinner, easy to prepare and packed with nutrients. This simple and quick recipe can become a family favorite, and you'll become the master of the kitchen!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 2

Necessary ingredients:

For the chicken thighs:
- 2 chicken thighs
- a few pieces of pancetta (about 100g)
- salt (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon of cumin
- 1 teaspoon of ground coriander
- 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil

For the spinach:
- 500g fresh spinach
- 1 cube of butter (about 30g)
- 6 cloves of garlic
- salt (to taste)

Recipe story:
Chicken thighs with spinach have a rich history, being a popular dish in many cultures. This meal is not only delicious but also healthy, thanks to the protein from the meat and the vitamins from the spinach. It is ideal for a family dinner but can also be served on special occasions.

Preparing the chicken thighs:
1. Start by preheating the oven to 250 degrees Celsius.
2. Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish. Carefully separate the skin from the meat without completely removing it. This will help retain the juices and flavors.
3. Place a few pieces of pancetta between the meat and the skin, then pull the skin back to cover it. This technique will not only enhance the flavor but also provide an appetizing appearance.
4. Turn the thighs over and repeat the process.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the entire surface of the thighs, followed by salt, paprika, cumin, and ground coriander. Make sure each thigh is well-seasoned.
6. Place the dish in the oven for 10 minutes, then cover with parchment paper and reduce the temperature to 200 degrees Celsius. Let it bake for about 30 minutes or until the meat is tender and juicy.

Preparing the spinach:
1. In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the well-washed spinach and let it boil for 2-3 minutes. This will make it easier to digest and retain a vibrant color.
2. Remove the spinach from the water and immediately transfer it to a bowl of very cold water. This will help maintain its color and texture.
3. In a skillet, melt the cube of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic cloves and sauté for 1-2 minutes until golden and fragrant.
4. Add the drained spinach to the skillet and continue to sauté for about 5 minutes. Finally, sprinkle a little salt to enhance the flavors.

Serving:
For a special presentation, you can arrange the chicken thighs on a platter and serve them alongside the sautéed spinach. Add a squeeze of lemon juice on top for a fresh touch. This dish pairs wonderfully with a glass of white wine or a refreshing lemonade.

Variations and suggestions:
If you want to add extra flavor, you can try replacing the pancetta with feta cheese or mozzarella. You can also experiment with spices like rosemary or oregano to personalize your recipe.

Nutritional benefits:
Chicken thighs are an excellent source of protein, essential for building and repairing tissues. Spinach is rich in iron, vitamin K, vitamin A, and antioxidants, promoting optimal health. This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides significant nutritional value.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes, boneless thighs cook faster and are just as delicious.
2. Can I make this dish with turkey meat?
Sure, turkey meat is a healthy alternative and pairs perfectly with spinach.
3. How can I keep spinach fresh?
You can store it in the refrigerator in perforated plastic bags, but it's best to consume it as soon as possible after purchase.

Now that you have all the necessary information, you are ready to start a new culinary chapter! Enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen and savor the delicious result of your efforts. Chicken thighs with spinach are waiting for you to discover them!