Chicken thighs with tomatoes and lemon in a bag

Chicken Thighs with Tomatoes and Lemon in a Bag

If you're looking for a delicious, flavorful, and extremely easy-to-make recipe, you've come to the right place! Chicken thighs with tomatoes and lemon in a bag are not only a tasty dish but also a fantastic way to impress your family and friends. This meal is perfect for a family dinner or a festive gathering, and the combination of flavors will turn any meal into a true celebration.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Marinating time: 2 hours
Baking time: 1 hour
Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 7 chicken thighs
- 3 large tomatoes (preferably slightly mealy)
- 2 green onions
- 6 garlic cloves
- Half a lemon
- 1 teaspoon of dried parsley
- Fresh dill
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika
- 350 ml white wine
- 4 tablespoons olive oil

Recipe History

Cooking in a bag has become popular due to its healthy cooking methods and the ease with which it can be done. This technique allows flavors to penetrate while keeping the meat and vegetables juicy. Chicken thighs with tomatoes and lemon are a modern reinterpretation of traditional recipes, where the basic ingredients harmoniously combine to create a savory dish.

Preparation

1. Preparing the chicken thighs: Start by washing the chicken thighs thoroughly, ensuring that you remove any traces of feathers. If the thighs are large, you can cut them in half for more even cooking.

2. Preparing the vegetables: Wash the tomatoes and slice them thinly. Choose tomatoes that are not too firm but slightly mealy for a pleasant texture. Peel the garlic and crush it well. Wash the green onions and slice them into rounds, and chop the fresh dill finely.

3. Spice mixture: In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, wine, salt, pepper, sweet paprika, garlic, green onions, tomatoes, dill, and dried parsley. Add the lemon cubes and gently mix everything with a spoon. Finally, add a cup of cold water to create a homogeneous and flavorful mixture.

4. Marinating the meat: Place the chicken thighs in the bowl with the spice and vegetable mixture. Carefully mix to ensure all pieces of meat are evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit in the refrigerator for 2 hours. This step is essential for allowing the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat.

5. Preparing for baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place a baking sheet in a large tray. Use two baking bags and divide the chicken thighs and vegetables evenly between each bag. Make sure to include some of the flavorful liquid.

6. Baking: Tie the bags securely at the top, then place them in the prepared tray. Put the tray in the preheated oven and let them bake for 1 hour. After this time, tear the bags slightly to allow steam to escape and leave them in the oven for an additional 15-20 minutes to brown nicely.

7. Serving: Once the thighs are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. You can serve them with a side of rice or mashed potatoes, as well as a fresh salad to balance the flavors. Pair the dish with a shot of plum brandy or a dry white wine, and your meal will be a true feast!

Practical Tips

- Choosing the thighs: Opt for quality chicken thighs, preferably from local or organic sources, for better flavor and a more tender texture.
- Marinating: If you have time, let the thighs marinate overnight. The longer they marinate, the more intense the flavors will be.
- Variations: You can experiment with other vegetables, such as carrots or peppers, to add more color and nutrients. You can also replace the wine with lemon juice for a non-alcoholic version.
- Storage: Leftover chicken thighs can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days or can be frozen for later use.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breast, but the baking time will be shorter since the breast cooks faster than the thighs.

2. What can I do with leftovers?
Leftover chicken thighs can be used in salads, sandwiches, or soups, adding extra flavor to your dishes.

3. Is the recipe suitable for diets?
Yes, chicken thighs are a good source of protein, and the vegetables add fiber and vitamins. Try to reduce the amount of oil or serve with a side of vegetables for a lighter meal.

4. What drinks pair best?
A dry white wine or a pale beer are excellent choices. Additionally, a glass of sparkling water with lemon slices will perfectly complement the meal.

These chicken thighs with tomatoes and lemon in a bag are more than just a simple recipe—they're an invitation to enjoy cooking and share special moments with loved ones. So, get ready to savor a delicious and aromatic meal that will surely become a favorite in your home! Enjoy your meal!