Chicken thighs with vegetables and polenta

Chicken thighs with vegetables and polenta - A comfort recipe that blends tradition with delicious flavors

Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 40 minutes Total time: 55 minutes Number of servings: 4

On a chilly day, nothing compares to a steaming plate of chicken thighs with vegetables and polenta. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also full of flavor and history. It is a dish that brings to mind family Sunday meals, when everyone gathers around the table to enjoy traditional dishes.

Necessary ingredients:

- 4 chicken thighs (preferably with skin for a richer taste)
- 1 white onion (choose a fresh one with firm layers)
- 1 bunch of green onions (adds a note of freshness)
- 1/2 orange bell pepper (its sweet flavor will blend perfectly with the other ingredients)
- 3-4 cloves of garlic (without garlic, the dish loses its flavor)
- Olive oil (for sautéing the vegetables)
- 1 small glass of white wine (choose a dry wine that adds depth)
- Thyme (fresh or dried, to complete the flavors)
- Basil (dried or fresh, adds a Mediterranean note)
- Sweet paprika (for a splash of color and flavor)
- Pepper (black or white, according to preference)
- Salt (to taste)
- 1 bunch of parsley (for garnish and an extra touch of freshness)
- 3 tablespoons of broth (to bind all the flavors)
- 1 tomato (fresh, to add a note of acidity)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by cleaning the white onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Chop the white onion finely, dice the bell pepper, and slice the garlic thinly. The green onions will be cut into small rounds, maintaining their crunchy texture.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large skillet, add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the white onion and sauté until it becomes translucent. Then, add the bell pepper and garlic, letting them soften for a few minutes and release their flavors.

3. Preparing the chicken thighs: Add the chicken thighs to the skillet, mixing them with the vegetables. Sprinkle thyme, basil, sweet paprika, pepper, and salt to taste. It is important to season the meat well, as it will absorb the flavors during cooking.

4. Deglazing with wine: When the thighs are nicely browned on all sides, pour the glass of white wine over them. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the alcohol evaporates and the aroma intensifies.

5. Adding the broth and tomato: Dilute the broth with a cup of water and pour it into the skillet. Add the diced tomato. Stir gently and let it simmer for 5 minutes.

6. Transferring to the oven: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Transfer the skillet to the oven and let everything bake for 30 minutes. This step will make the chicken thighs tender and juicy, and the vegetable flavors will blend perfectly.

7. Preparing the polenta: While the chicken is baking, prepare the polenta. Boil water with a pinch of salt in a pot and, when it boils, gradually add the cornmeal, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook the polenta for about 15-20 minutes until it becomes creamy. If you like, you can add a splash of butter to enhance its flavor.

8. Serving: When the thighs are ready, take them out of the oven and sprinkle chopped parsley on top. Serve them alongside warm polenta and, for an extra flavor boost, add pickles on the side. The dish will be not only tasty but also extremely aromatic, bringing a touch of nostalgia in every bite.

Useful tips:
- If you want a healthier option, you can use skinless chicken thighs or replace them with chicken breast.
- You can also add other vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini, to diversify the dish.
- Replace the polenta with mashed potatoes or a fresh salad for a lighter meal.
- It is an excellent recipe to prepare in advance, as the flavor gets even better the next day.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This recipe is a good source of protein and vitamins from vegetables. Each serving of chicken thighs with vegetables and polenta contains approximately 550-600 calories, depending on the amount of oil used. Chicken thighs provide essential proteins, while vegetables enhance fiber and vitamin intake.

Pair this dish with a cabbage salad or pickles for a contrast of textures and to add an extra touch of freshness. A refreshing white drink, such as dry wine or lemonade, will perfectly complement the meal.

While the recipe for chicken thighs with vegetables and polenta is not complicated, it will surely bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Don't hesitate to share the recipe and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen, exploring flavors and aromas that unite us around the table. Enjoy your meal!