Homemade chicken gratin with vegetables, in beer

Homemade Chicken Gratin with Vegetables in Beer - An Easy and Tasty Recipe, Perfect for Warm Summer Days

Who doesn't love a meal that combines the delicious flavors of chicken with fresh vegetables? The homemade chicken gratin with vegetables in beer is not only an easy recipe but also a perfect opportunity to enjoy fresh, seasonal produce. With a combination of textures and flavors, this dish is sure to be a hit on your table. Whether you serve it at a family meal or prepare it for friends, this gratin will bring joy and satisfaction.

Preparation time: 1 hour
Baking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- Thighs and breast from one free-range chicken
- 1 zucchini
- 2-3 large tomatoes
- 2-3 potatoes
- 1 green bell pepper
- 2 eggs
- 200 ml sour cream
- 100 g mozzarella
- 100 g cheese
- Salt
- Pepper
- Chilli (optional, for a spicier taste)
- 2-3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 250 ml beer

Preparation:

1. Preparing the meat: Start by cutting the thighs and breast of the chicken. Make sure you have a sharp knife to create even portions. Season the meat with salt, pepper, and, if desired, a little chilli for a kick. Place the meat in a baking dish and drizzle with soy sauce. Cover with a bag and let marinate in the fridge for an hour. If you have time, let the meat marinate overnight; the flavors will intensify, and the gratin will be even tastier.

2. Cooking the meat: Heat a grill on the stove, ideally a non-stick one that doesn't require oil, like the Delimano grill. Sear the thighs and chicken breast on all sides until golden and appetizing. Then, transfer them to a heat-resistant dish, such as Pyroflam.

3. Adding the beer: Once the meat is browned, pour the beer over it. The beer will not only add a unique flavor to the dish but will also help tenderize the meat during baking. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and place the dish in the oven for 30 minutes.

4. Preparing the vegetables: Meanwhile, prepare the vegetables. Slice the zucchini thinly, cut the peeled potatoes into cubes, quarter the tomatoes, and slice the bell pepper into strips. These vegetables will not only add color but also contribute to a healthy nutritional intake.

5. Assembling the gratin: After 30 minutes of baking, take the dish out of the oven and layer the vegetables over the meat in the dish, beautifully arranged. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with the sour cream, add salt and pepper to taste, then incorporate 50 g of the grated cheese. This mixture will add delicious creaminess to the gratin.

6. Final baking: Pour the egg and sour cream mixture over the vegetables in the dish. Top with slices of mozzarella and sprinkle the remaining grated cheese on top. Return the dish to the oven for another 20-30 minutes or until the vegetables are cooked and the top is golden and crispy.

7. Serving: Once the gratin is ready, let it cool slightly before slicing. Ensure that each portion contains both meat and vegetables to fully enjoy all the flavors. This dish is delicious both warm and at room temperature, making it perfect for a picnic or an outdoor summer meal.

Practical tips:
- You can experiment with other seasonal vegetables, such as eggplant or carrots, to diversify the recipe.
- For an extra flavor boost, you can add some herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to the egg mixture.
- Use craft beer for a more intense flavor. Blonde or brown beer can add different nuances to the dish.

Nutritional information:
This gratin offers a balanced combination of protein from the meat, carbohydrates from the vegetables, and healthy fats from the sour cream and cheeses. It is a nourishing meal that can be a good choice for lunch or dinner without being too heavy.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use store-bought chicken? Of course! However, free-range chicken provides a richer flavor.
- Can I prepare the gratin a few hours in advance? Yes, you can assemble it and put it in the oven when you're ready to serve.
- What drinks pair best with this gratin? A white wine or a cold beer are excellent options to complement the flavors of the dish.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to try this homemade chicken gratin with vegetables in beer. Enjoy your meal!