Chicken with cabbage in the oven

Oven-Baked Chicken with Cabbage – a memorable recipe, full of flavors and warmth, perfect for family meals or to impress guests. This simple yet incredibly tasty dish combines the juiciness of the chicken with the rich aroma of cabbage, providing you with a main course that will delight everyone's taste buds. Additionally, it is a healthy choice, packed with essential nutrients.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4 servings

Ingredients:
- 1 half chicken (preferably free-range)
- 2 tablespoons butter (preferably high-quality)
- Salt, to taste
- Lemon and pepper mix (available in stores or you can make at home from dried lemon peel and whole pepper)
- A bit of dried thyme (or fresh, if available)
- 3 bay leaves
- 1 small organic cabbage (preferably in season for a more intense flavor)
- 1 organic onion
- 1 organic tomato
- 1 organic bell pepper
- Sour cream (homemade, for an authentic taste)

Recipe history:
This oven-baked chicken with cabbage recipe has deep roots in family culinary traditions. Cabbage, a staple ingredient in many cultures, has been used for centuries as a source of vitamins and minerals, and combining it with meat makes it a nourishing choice. Chicken, on the other hand, is a versatile ingredient that absorbs the flavors of other ingredients, making it a favorite in numerous recipes. Today, I will guide you step by step to create a delicious dish that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones.

Preparing the chicken:
1. Start by preheating the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. This will ensure even cooking of the chicken and allow the butter to melt, infusing the meat with flavor.
2. Take the half chicken and place it on a work surface. Use a sharp knife to make a few incisions in the chicken skin. This step will help the flavors penetrate and make the meat juicier.
3. Spread the two tablespoons of butter over the chicken pieces. Make sure the butter is at room temperature for easy spreading. The butter will not only add flavor but also help brown the chicken.
4. Sprinkle the lemon and pepper mix along with a pinch of salt and a bit of thyme over the entire surface of the chicken. These spices will provide a fresh and vibrant taste, perfect for a summer meal.
5. Place the chicken in a baking dish and cover it with parchment paper. This will prevent the meat from drying out during the first stage of baking. Put the dish in the oven and let the chicken bake for 30-35 minutes.

Preparing the cabbage:
6. In the meantime, prepare the cabbage. Wash it well, then slice it finely. This will allow the cabbage to cook evenly and absorb the flavors from the chicken.
7. Chop the onion, tomato, and bell pepper into small cubes. These vegetables will add extra texture and flavor to the dish.
8. In a large bowl, mix the cabbage with the onion, tomato, and bell pepper. Add a pinch of salt to help the vegetables release their liquid.

Finalizing the dish:
9. After the chicken has completed the first round of baking, take it out of the oven. Carefully use a spatula to lift the chicken and place it on top of the cabbage mixture in the dish.
10. Add the bay leaves and cover the dish again with parchment paper. Put it back in the oven for another 30-35 minutes. This step will allow the cabbage to cook and absorb the flavors of the meat.
11. At the end of the baking time, remove the parchment paper and let the chicken brown for 5-10 minutes. You will notice how the skin becomes crispy and golden, and the aroma will fill the entire kitchen.

Serving:
12. Once the chicken is beautifully browned, take the dish out of the oven and let the dish rest for a few minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute and make the meat juicier.
13. Serve the chicken with cabbage on a plate and add a spoonful of sour cream on top. This will add a creamy note and perfectly contrast the intense flavors of the dish.

Suggestions and variations:
- You can also add other vegetables, such as carrots or potatoes, to complete the dish. These will add a hint of sweetness and extra texture.
- For an even stronger flavor, try marinating the chicken a few hours before cooking, using lemon juice and spices.
- This recipe pairs excellently with a glass of dry white wine or refreshing homemade lemonade.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use another type of meat? Absolutely! This recipe works well with pork or turkey, but the cooking time may vary.
- How can I make this dish spicier? Add some chopped chili pepper to the vegetable mix or sprinkle chili flakes on the chicken before baking.
- Can it be prepared in advance? Yes, you can prepare all the ingredients and store them in the fridge. Cooking can be done on the day you want to serve the meal.

Oven-baked chicken with cabbage is a recipe that will surely bring warmth and comfort to every home. With every bite, you will not only taste the deliciousness of the dish but also the beautiful memories of family meals. Enjoy every moment and savor this simple and flavorful recipe!