Chicken thighs with tomatoes on a bed of potatoes

Delicious chicken thighs with tomatoes on a bed of potatoes recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4

I invite you to discover a simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the juiciness of chicken meat with the enticing flavors of tomatoes and potatoes. This recipe for chicken thighs with tomatoes on a bed of potatoes is perfect for a family dinner or to impress friends at a festive meal. The origins of this dish are rooted in culinary traditions that emphasize the use of fresh and local ingredients, turning every meal into a true celebration of flavors.

Ingredients:
- 4 boneless chicken thighs
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Delikat (or other preferred seasoning)
- 1 can diced tomatoes (400g)
- 1 cup tomato juice (approximately 250ml)
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 5-6 medium-sized potatoes
- Salt, to taste

Necessary utensils:
- Deep frying pan or pot
- Mixing bowl
- Knife and cutting board
- Pot for boiling potatoes
- Masher or potato ricer
- Serving platter

Preparation steps:

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing the chicken thighs well under cold running water, then dry them with a kitchen towel. Cut the thighs into suitable strips so they cook evenly. Finely chop the 3 cloves of garlic – this step will add extra flavor to the dish.

Step 2: Marinating the chicken
In a bowl, combine olive oil with all the spices: basil, rosemary, thyme, sweet paprika, black pepper, and Delikat. Add the chopped garlic and mix well. This aromatic mixture will coat the chicken thighs, giving them a unique taste. Add the chicken strips to the bowl and mix well, ensuring each piece is evenly covered with the marinade. Let them marinate for 10-15 minutes to intensify the flavors.

Step 3: Cooking the chicken
Heat a deep frying pan or pot over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken thighs and cook for 15-20 minutes, turning them occasionally. It is important to monitor the cooking process, adding a little water if you notice they are sticking to the bottom of the pan. When the meat is well cooked and juicy, remove the thighs from the pan and place them on a platter.

Step 4: Preparing the tomato sauce
In the same pan, add the can of diced tomatoes, sugar, pepper, and a little salt. This step will create a rich and flavorful sauce. Allow the sauce to simmer on low heat, gradually adding the tomato juice. Continue to simmer until the sauce thickens, about 10-15 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasonings if necessary.

Step 5: Preparing the potatoes
Meanwhile, peel the potatoes and cut them into evenly sized cubes. Boil them in a pot of salted water. Cook for 15-20 minutes or until they become soft. After boiling, drain them well and place them in a bowl. Add 1-2 tablespoons of butter and mash them well. Use the water in which the potatoes boiled and milk in equal amounts to achieve a creamy and smooth mash.

Step 6: Assembling the dish
On a large platter, place a layer of mashed potatoes, then top with the chicken thighs. Pour over the tomato sauce, ensuring that each piece of chicken is nicely coated.

Serving and suggestions
This dish can be served simply, but you can also add a few fresh parsley leaves for an extra touch of freshness. A seasonal salad with crunchy vegetables or a side of grilled vegetables would perfectly complete the meal. For a relaxing moment, I recommend enjoying this dish with a glass of dry white wine or a herbal tea.

Tips and tricks
- For a more intense flavor, you can let the chicken thighs marinate for a few hours or even overnight.
- Possible variations: You can add black or green olives to the tomato sauce for a Mediterranean touch, or experiment with different herbs like oregano or cilantro.
- Calories and nutritional benefits: This recipe contains quality protein from chicken, carbohydrates from potatoes, and vitamins from tomatoes, making it a balanced and satisfying meal.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use a whole chicken? Of course! Cut the chicken into pieces, adjusting the cooking time according to their size.
- What else can I add to the sauce? You can experiment with hot peppers or mushrooms for a more complex flavor.
- Can I prepare this dish in advance? Certainly! This dish keeps well in the fridge and can be reheated, retaining its flavor.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to start cooking! The chicken thighs with tomatoes on a bed of potatoes will delight you with every bite, and cooking will become a pleasure! Enjoy your meal!