Chicken with apples in the oven

Oven-Baked Chicken with Apples

If Sunday is the day you gather with family to enjoy a delicious meal, oven-baked chicken with apples is the perfect choice. This recipe not only brings a delightful taste but also an inviting aroma that will fill the entire house. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to prepare a savory soup from the chicken used, making this recipe a true culinary joy.

Total Preparation Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 1 chicken of about 1.5 kg (I recommend a fresh, farm-raised chicken for better flavor)
- 2-3 carrots (choose fresh carrots with a vibrant color)
- 2-3 parsley roots
- 1 celery (this will add a subtle flavor)
- 1 onion (for a richer taste)
- 2 potatoes (to add consistency)
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable seasoning (or your favorite spice mix)
- 3-4 apples (tart apples like Granny Smith are best)
- Raisins (choose natural raisins, without preservatives)
- 1 shot of whiskey (or brandy, if you prefer)
- 1 tablespoon of honey (for a sweet-sour taste)
- Pepper, thyme, paprika (to taste)
- 1 glass of white wine (optional, but recommended for an intense flavor)
- 1 glass of chicken broth (you can use the broth obtained from boiling the chicken)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the chicken: Start by washing the chicken well under cold running water, ensuring it is clean. This is an essential step to have a healthy chicken.

2. Boiling the chicken: In a large pot, add the chicken along with the carrots, parsley roots, celery, onion, and peeled and chopped potatoes. Cover the ingredients with water and add a tablespoon of vegetable seasoning. Boil everything for 30 minutes over medium heat. This step will ensure tender and juicy meat, perfect for further cooking.

3. Seasoning the chicken: After 30 minutes, remove the chicken from the water and let it drain on a platter. Brush it with honey, sprinkle with thyme, paprika, and pepper, then add the shot of whiskey. These seasonings will create a delicious and aromatic crust during baking.

4. Preparing the apples: Core the apples and fill them with raisins. These will add a sweet and sour contrast and a pleasant texture to the chicken. Arrange the apples around the chicken in a baking dish.

5. Baking: Also add the glass of chicken broth and the glass of white wine (if you choose to use it) to the dish. These liquids will keep the chicken moist and flavor the dish. Preheat the oven to 180°C and let the chicken bake for 30 minutes until it becomes golden and crispy.

6. Preparing the soup: While the chicken is baking, you can take this time to prepare the soup! Boil some noodles in salted water, then drain them and add them to the broth obtained from boiling the chicken. Finally, sprinkle a bit of chopped fresh parsley for an extra touch of freshness.

7. Serving: Once the chicken is golden and beautiful, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve it alongside the caramelized apples and the soup. A good serving suggestion is to add some slices of fresh bread to soak up the delicious flavors.

Useful tips:
- You can also add other favorite vegetables to the soup pot, such as zucchini or cauliflower.
- If you want to enhance the flavor, you can replace the whiskey with an apple liqueur.
- If you prefer a crispier chicken, you can leave the chicken in the oven for another 10-15 minutes at a higher temperature, being careful not to dry it out.

Nutritional benefits:
This oven-baked chicken with apples recipe is rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals due to the vegetables used. Additionally, apples add fiber and antioxidants, contributing to a healthy and balanced meal.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What type of apples is best for this recipe?
Tart apples, such as Granny Smith or Fuji, are the most suitable as they maintain their texture during baking.

2. Can I use another type of meat?
Of course! This recipe can also be adapted for turkey or duck meat.

3. What can I do with the leftovers?
Leftover chicken can be used for sandwiches, in salads, or even to make a delicious soup the next day.

This oven-baked chicken with apples is not just a tasty dish but also an unforgettable experience filled with flavors and memories. Whether you serve it with family or friends, it is guaranteed to be appreciated by everyone. Enjoy your meal!