Chicken thighs with yogurt crust

Delicious Recipe: Chicken Thighs with Yogurt Crust

This recipe for chicken thighs with a yogurt crust is a perfect choice for a quick and tasty dinner. Bringing together rich flavors and a crispy texture, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Dishes made with yogurt are highly appreciated in many cultures, being considered not only nutritious but also delicious. Here’s how you can create this savory dish in a few simple steps.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 30-40 minutes
Total Time: 55-60 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

- 10 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 300 g yogurt (preferably natural and creamy)
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 pinch of sweet paprika
- 2 tablespoons tomato sauce or 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon grated saffron
- 2 tablespoons cooking cream
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Steps

1. Preparing the marinade: In a large enough bowl, add the yogurt, lemon juice, grated ginger, paprika, tomato sauce (or tomato paste), saffron, cooking cream, salt, and pepper. Mix all the ingredients well with a spatula or a hand mixer until you achieve a homogeneous mixture. This blend will provide the thighs not only with an intense flavor but also with a delicious crust.

2. Preparing the chicken thighs: Rinse the chicken thighs well under cold running water and dry them with paper towels. This step is important to ensure that the marinade adheres better to the meat.

3. Marinating: Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish. Pour the yogurt mixture evenly over the chicken thighs, making sure each piece is well coated. If desired, you can massage the marinade directly onto the meat to ensure it penetrates well.

4. Baking: Preheat the oven to 200°C. Once the oven is ready, place the dish with the chicken thighs inside and let them bake for 30-40 minutes. The thighs should become golden and crispy on the outside, while the meat remains tender and juicy on the inside. If you want an even crispier crust, you can turn on the grill function in the last 5 minutes of baking.

5. Serving: Once the thighs are ready, remove the dish from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve the chicken thighs on a platter alongside a fresh salad, which can include tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and red onion, drizzled with a little olive oil and balsamic vinegar. This combination will perfectly complement the intense flavors of the chicken.

Practical Tips

- Choosing the yogurt: Opt for Greek yogurt or a natural and creamy one to achieve a rich marinade.
- Tomato sauce: If you choose to use tomato sauce, make sure it is of good quality, without additives. A concentrated tomato paste will add extra flavor.
- Spicy variant: If you enjoy spicy food, you can add some chopped chili or chili flakes to the marinade.
- Other combinations: These chicken thighs pair wonderfully with a serving of basmati rice or quinoa, which will absorb the delicious flavors of the dish.

Nutritional Benefits

Chicken thighs are an excellent source of protein, essential for muscle development and maintaining health. Yogurt provides a dose of probiotics, beneficial for digestive health, while ginger has anti-inflammatory properties. This recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it an ideal choice for a balanced meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use chicken thighs with bones? Yes, you can use bone-in thighs for an even richer flavor. The baking time may be slightly longer.
- How can I store leftovers? Leftover thighs can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in an airtight container. They can be reheated in the microwave or oven.
- What other side dishes do you recommend? In addition to salads, you can serve the thighs with mashed potatoes or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

This recipe for chicken thighs with a yogurt crust is not only simple but also full of flavor, perfect for a family dinner or a special lunch. I encourage you to try this recipe and explore all the variations it can offer. You can add your own personal touches, transforming each dish into a unique culinary experience!