Chicken with Garlic and Lemon

To prepare a delicious and savory dish, we start by gathering our essential ingredients. The lemon zest, with its fresh and vibrant aroma, will add a burst of flavor to our dish. So, grate the zest of one lemon, being careful to avoid the white part, which can be bitter. In a bowl, combine the lemon zest with a few crushed garlic cloves and a handful of freshly chopped parsley. This mixture will provide an unmistakable flavor to the chicken thighs.

Next, we will prepare the chicken thighs. Wash them well under a stream of cold water, then, with a sharp knife, gently peel back the skin on one side to create a pocket. This step is essential to fill the thighs with the aromatic mixture of garlic, lemon zest, and parsley. Fill each pocket with this mixture, making sure it is well distributed. After this, season the thighs with salt and pepper to add an intense flavor.

Vegetables are another key ingredient in this recipe. You can choose your favorite vegetables, but I recommend using two lengthwise cut carrots, two quartered potatoes, a sliced zucchini, and a few mushrooms (I used frozen mushrooms, but you can also opt for fresh ones). If you like, you can also add bell peppers, but I didn't have any on hand. After cutting the vegetables, mix them well in a large bowl so that the flavors combine.

In a baking dish, evenly spread the mixed vegetables on the bottom. On top, place the stuffed thighs, and then add about two cups of water, which will help cook all the ingredients slowly and evenly. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture and allow the vegetables to absorb the flavors well.

Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and place the dish inside. Cook the dish for about 45 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the thighs are cooked. At the end, remove the aluminum foil and leave everything in the oven for another 10 minutes to achieve a golden and appetizing crust on the thighs. When ready, take the dish out of the oven and let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. You can garnish with a little fresh parsley for a special touch. Enjoy this delicious meal with your loved ones!