Grilled chicken

Baked chicken with potatoes is a classic, comforting, and delicious dish that always brings a smile to the faces of loved ones. This simple recipe will guide you step by step, ensuring a perfect result every time. Whether you're preparing it for a weekend dinner or a special occasion, baked chicken is always an excellent choice.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 4 chicken thighs (preferably upper, for a juicier roast)
- 1 kg of potatoes (choose firmer potatoes, such as red or yellow ones)
- 3 cloves of garlic (fresh, for an intense flavor)
- 1 tablespoon of broth (can be from tomatoes or peppers, depending on preference)
- 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika (for a hint of flavor)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (freshly ground, if possible)
- 2 bay leaves (for added flavor)
- 1 cup of water (or more, depending on preference)

Preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing the chicken thighs well under cold running water. Then, trim excess skin if necessary and cut each thigh in half. This will help the chicken cook evenly and absorb the flavors from the sauce.

Step 2: Preparing the potatoes
Peel the potatoes and cut them into cubes of about 3-4 cm. This size will allow the potatoes to cook evenly and absorb the flavors from the roast.

Step 3: Assembling the dish
Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish, ensuring they have enough space to cook evenly. Add the cut potatoes around the thighs. Now, pour a cup of water into the dish; if you prefer more sauce, feel free to add more water.

Step 4: Initial baking
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 50 minutes. During this time, the chicken will begin to brown, and the potatoes will become tender.

Step 5: Adding flavors
After 50 minutes, remove the dish from the oven and add the crushed garlic, broth, paprika, salt, pepper, and bay leaves. Gently stir to distribute the spices. This is the stage where the flavors intensify, and the dish becomes truly savory!

Step 6: Finishing the dish
Put the dish back in the oven and let it bake for another 10 minutes until the chicken turns golden and crispy, and the sauce reduces to become more concentrated. It’s the perfect moment to prepare your taste buds!

Serving suggestions
This baked chicken with potatoes is delicious served alongside a fresh vegetable salad or a side of steamed vegetables. A slice of homemade bread will be perfect for soaking up the rich sauce!

Nutritional benefits
Baked chicken is an excellent source of protein, essential for building and repairing tissues. Potatoes are a good source of carbohydrates and vitamins, such as vitamin C, which contributes to the health of the immune system. Garlic, besides its distinctive flavor, brings numerous health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use other parts of the chicken?
Yes, you can substitute the thighs with chicken breast or wings, but the cooking time may vary.

- What is the secret to juicier meat?
Always choose meat with bone and skin, as these help retain moisture during cooking.

- What can I do with leftovers?
Leftover baked chicken can be used in salads, sandwiches, or soups, minimizing food waste.

Possible variations
If you want to experiment, you can add vegetables like carrots, onions, or zucchini to the dish. Also, try changing the spices by using herbs like rosemary or thyme for a different flavor.

A personal note
This baked chicken with potatoes recipe is one of my favorites, often cooked on Sundays when the whole family gathers for a meal. The aroma that fills the house is simply irresistible! Don’t forget to share this recipe with your loved ones and create unforgettable memories around the table!

Baked chicken with potatoes is not just a dish but an experience full of warmth and love. So, let’s get cooking and bring joy to our plates!