Chicken thighs with vegetables

Chicken thighs with vegetables - a simple, delicious, and healthy recipe, perfect for a quick family dinner or to impress guests. This recipe combines the juiciness of chicken thighs with the delicate flavors of vegetables, making it an excellent choice for any season. Moreover, the preparation is extremely easy and doesn't take much time. Let's discover together how we can bring this recipe to our table!

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs (preferably with skin, for extra flavor)
- 1 bag of frozen vegetables (e.g. carrots, peas, corn, bell peppers)
- 2-3 tablespoons of butter (or olive oil, for a healthier option)
- Spices: salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder (or herbs of your choice, like rosemary or thyme)
- 100 ml of white wine (optional, but recommended to add a note of complexity to the taste)

Starting the preparations:
The first step is to ensure we have all the ingredients at hand. If you are using frozen vegetables, they are already processed, saving us time. The chicken thighs can be left at room temperature for a few minutes to cook evenly, but avoid leaving them out for too long.

Step 1: Preparing the chicken thighs
1. First of all, preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. This will help achieve a crispy and golden skin.
2. Place the chicken thighs in an aluminum tray or a ceramic dish.
3. Season the thighs well with salt, pepper, and paprika. If you want an even more intense flavor, add garlic powder or your favorite herbs. Don't be stingy with the spices; they are essential to bring the meat to life.
4. After seasoning the thighs, you can drizzle them with a little melted butter for extra flavor.

Step 2: Baking the thighs
1. Place the tray in the preheated oven and let the thighs bake for 30 minutes. It is important not to open the oven door in the first 20 minutes to allow the heat to remain constant.
2. Halfway through the baking time, it's a good idea to turn the thighs for even browning.

Step 3: Preparing the vegetables
1. In a large skillet, add the butter and let it melt over medium heat. If you prefer, you can use olive oil for a healthier option.
2. Add the frozen vegetables to the skillet and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly. This step is important to develop their flavors.
3. Once the vegetables have softened slightly, add water until they are covered. Broth or stock can also be used for a richer taste.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally. This will create a delicious sauce.
5. When the vegetables are almost done, add the white wine and let it simmer for a few minutes. The wine will add depth of flavor and help caramelize the vegetables, giving them a delicious taste.

Step 4: Assembling and serving
1. After the chicken thighs are baked and the vegetables are ready, remove the tray from the oven and let the thighs rest for a few minutes before serving. This step allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat juicier.
2. Place the chicken thighs on plates, add a generous portion of vegetables, and drizzle with the remaining sauce from the skillet. A garnish of fresh herbs (such as parsley or basil) provides a nice appearance and a touch of freshness.

Serving suggestions
This dish pairs very well with a fresh green salad or mashed potatoes. Basmati rice or quinoa can also perfectly complement this meal. As a drink, the white wine used in the preparation can also be served at the table, creating a harmony of flavors.

Tips and variations
- If you want to add extra flavor, try adding a few slices of lemon or lime to the tray with the thighs before baking.
- The variety of vegetables can be adapted according to preferences. You can use fresh, seasonal vegetables, or even grilled vegetables for a distinct flavor.
- If you are a spice enthusiast, add a splash of soy sauce or sriracha sauce for a spicy kick.

Nutritional information
This recipe is rich in protein due to the chicken thighs and contains a variety of vitamins and minerals from the vegetables. Each serving of chicken thighs with vegetables has approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of butter and wine used. It is a healthy choice, offering essential nutrients and a satisfying meal.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, turkey is a healthy alternative and is prepared similarly.
- Can I substitute the white wine?
Sure, you can use water or vegetable broth to maintain moisture and not lose flavors.
- How long can I keep the leftovers?
Chicken thighs and vegetables can be stored in the refrigerator, in an airtight container, for 2-3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove before serving.

In conclusion, this chicken thighs with vegetables recipe is not only simple to prepare but also extremely delicious and versatile. With a little creativity, you can transform this dish into something truly special. Enjoy your meal!