Grilled chicken thighs with baked potatoes.

Grilled chicken thighs with stuffed baked potatoes - a delicious and comforting recipe

I present to you a recipe that brings joy to the table and will delight your taste buds: grilled chicken thighs with stuffed baked potatoes. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, being easy to prepare but with a spectacular result. The main component, chicken thighs, is juicy and full of flavor, while the stuffed baked potatoes add a touch of creativity and taste. Let's discover together how to prepare this simple yet absolutely delicious dish.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 50-55 minutes
Total time: 65-70 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

For the chicken thighs:
- 8 chicken thighs
- Spices to taste (salt, pepper, garlic powder, thyme, sweet or spicy paprika)

For the stuffed baked potatoes:
- 5 large red potatoes
- 200 g goat cheese
- 1 teaspoon butter
- 2-3 tablespoons yogurt or sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-step preparation

Step 1: Preparing the chicken thighs
1. Start by washing the chicken thighs well under cold running water. This step is essential to remove any impurities and ensure a healthy preparation.
2. After washing, dry them with a kitchen towel. This will help achieve a crispy crust.
3. Season the thighs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, thyme, and sweet or spicy paprika, depending on your preferences. Make sure to coat them evenly with the spices, gently massaging them to allow the flavors to penetrate well.
4. Preheat the grill on the stove or, if you choose the outdoor option, light the barbecue. Cook the thighs on the grill for 40-45 minutes, turning them occasionally for even browning. The thighs are ready when they reach an internal temperature of 75°C and have a golden crust.

Step 2: Preparing the stuffed baked potatoes
1. While the thighs are cooking, wash the potatoes well under running water to remove any dirt. It is important to keep the skin, as it will help maintain their shape and add a pleasant texture.
2. Place the potatoes in a baking tray and put them in the oven at 180°C for about 45 minutes, or until they become tender. You can check if they are ready by inserting a fork into the flesh. If it goes in easily, the potatoes are done!
3. Once baked, take the potatoes out of the oven and let them cool for 2-3 minutes. Then, cut them in half lengthwise and, using a teaspoon, scoop out three-quarters of the flesh. This step will create a perfect space for the filling.

Step 3: Preparing the filling
1. In a bowl, mash the scooped potato flesh well. Add the goat cheese, butter, and yogurt or sour cream. Mix everything well until you obtain a homogeneous composition.
2. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Here you can let your imagination run wild - add herbs or spices you like, such as dill or oregano, for an extra flavor.

Step 4: Stuffing the potatoes
1. Using a spoon, fill each half of the potato with the cheese and potato flesh mixture. Make sure to fill them generously!
2. Place the stuffed potatoes in a tray and put them back in the oven for 5-7 minutes, until they are lightly browned on top. This will create a golden and appetizing crust.

Serving
Once the chicken thighs and stuffed baked potatoes are ready, it's time to assemble the plate. Serve the thighs alongside the stuffed potatoes and add a fresh salad. A salad of tomatoes and cucumbers with a simple dressing of olive oil and balsamic vinegar will perfectly complement the meal. If you want to add a touch of creativity, you can also include some stuffed mushrooms, which are very easy to prepare and pair excellently with these dishes.

Tips and tricks
- Choosing chicken thighs: Opt for bone-in chicken thighs, as they remain juicier during cooking. If you prefer, you can also use chicken breasts, but the cooking time will be shorter.
- Experiment with spices: Don't hesitate to add spices you like. Smoked paprika or cinnamon can bring a surprisingly good flavor.
- Variations of the filling: You can replace goat cheese with feta or cheddar cheese for a different taste. Additionally, adding spinach or dill to the filling can add a fresh note.
- Serving: This dish pairs perfectly with a dry white wine or a pale beer, which will highlight the flavors of the dish.

Nutritional information
This recipe is rich in protein due to the chicken thighs and contains complex carbohydrates from the potatoes, making it a balanced choice for a hearty meal. Goat cheese also provides calcium, while yogurt or sour cream adds beneficial probiotics for digestion. Each serving contains approximately 500-600 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, but the cooking time will be shorter. Check the meat to avoid drying it out.

2. What else can I use in the potato filling?
You can experiment with sautéed vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, for an extra flavor.

3. Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
The chicken thighs can be marinated a day in advance, and the potatoes can be stuffed a few hours before serving.

I hope this recipe for grilled chicken thighs with stuffed baked potatoes inspires you to cook and enjoy delicious moments with your loved ones! Cooking is an art that brings people together, and every meal can become a celebration of flavors and joy. Enjoy your meal!