chicken with asparagus and carrot side dish

Delicious chicken recipe with asparagus and carrot side dish: an easy-to-make dinner full of flavor

Who doesn't love a dinner that impresses? This chicken recipe with asparagus and carrot is not only easy to prepare but also extremely visually appealing, perfect for a romantic dinner or a festive meal. Moreover, the combination of flavors and textures will turn every bite into a memorable culinary experience. Let's discover together the steps to achieve a perfect result!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 4 boneless chicken thighs
- 1 can of asparagus (or fresh asparagus, if you prefer)
- 3 tablespoons of rice oil
- 1 large carrot
- 100 g grated mozzarella cheese
- 200 ml sour cream (adjust the amount depending on how much sauce you want)
- 1 teaspoon of flour
- 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of herbs de Provence
- Salt, to taste

A little story about the recipe:
Chicken recipes with vegetable sides are popular in many cultures, each bringing a touch of local traditions and ingredients. These dishes are often associated with family meals, where flavors blend to create unforgettable memories. Today, we will keep that tradition and add a modern twist with a savory combination of ingredients.

Step 1: Preparing the marinade for the chicken
Start by marinating the chicken thighs. Place them in a bowl and add 2 tablespoons of rice oil, herbs de Provence, and salt to taste. Mix well, ensuring each piece of meat is evenly coated. This step will help intensify the flavors and make the meat more tender. Let the thighs marinate for 15 minutes; if you have time, you can leave them longer for a more intense flavor.

Step 2: Preparing the carrot
In the meantime, bring a pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and the whole carrot. Boil it for 5-7 minutes until it becomes slightly soft but not fully cooked. Check the consistency with a fork; it should be slightly tender but hold its shape. Once boiled, remove it from the water and let it cool, then cut it into sticks.

Step 3: Preparing the chicken
In a non-stick skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of rice oil over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken thighs and fry them on both sides until golden and crispy, about 5-7 minutes on each side. Once done, remove them onto a paper towel to absorb the excess oil.

Step 4: Preparing the sauce
In the same skillet, leave the remaining oil and add a teaspoon of flour. Stir constantly until the flour turns golden. Then, pour in the sour cream and continue stirring, ensuring no lumps form. Add salt to taste, grated mozzarella cheese, and thyme. Cook on low heat until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.

Step 5: Assembling the plate
On an elegant plate, place one or two pieces of chicken. Pour the sour cream sauce over the top, then garnish with carrot slices and asparagus. Sprinkle a little grated mozzarella on top for an even more appetizing appearance.

Practical tips:
- Asparagus: If using fresh asparagus, make sure to wash it well and remove the woody ends. Boil it for 2-3 minutes in salted water to soften it slightly before serving.
- Vegetarian option: If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can replace the chicken with large mushrooms or tofu, which absorb the marinade flavors.
- Serving: This recipe pairs wonderfully with a glass of white wine or fresh lemonade.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of meat?
- Yes, you can use chicken breast, turkey, or even pork, adjusting the cooking time based on the thickness of the pieces.

2. How can I make the sauce spicier?
- Add a little cayenne pepper or ground chili to the sauce for an extra kick.

3. Why should I use rice oil?
- Rice oil has a higher smoke point, making it ideal for frying. It also has a neutral flavor that won't overpower the dish's flavors.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This recipe offers a balance of protein and vegetables, making it a healthy choice for a balanced dinner. Each serving contains approximately 450-500 calories. Chicken is an excellent source of protein, while carrots and asparagus provide important vitamins and minerals.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to get cooking! I assure you that this easy-to-make recipe will quickly become one of your favorites. Enjoy your meal!