Oven-baked chicken thighs

Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs with Delicious Sauce

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 75 minutes
Servings: 4

If you are looking for an exceptionally tasty and easy-to-make recipe, you have come to the right place! Oven-baked chicken thighs, marinated in a savory mixture, are the perfect choice for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. This recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious, and its enticing aroma will fill the entire house. Let’s get started!

Necessary Ingredients:
- 5 whole chicken thighs
- 1 head of garlic (about 10-12 cloves)
- 250 milliliters of white wine (a dry wine is ideal)
- 2-3 tablespoons of lard (or olive oil for a healthier option)
- 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon of ground pepper
- 150 milliliters of oil (preferably sunflower or canola oil)
- A pinch of salt

Useful Tips about Ingredients:
- Chicken Thighs: Choose thighs with bone, as cooking with bone provides a richer flavor to the dish. If you prefer a leaner option, you can opt for boneless thighs.
- Garlic: It is not only a flavorful ingredient but also one with numerous health benefits. Garlic has antibacterial properties and can help strengthen the immune system.
- White Wine: It not only adds an elegant touch to the dish but also helps tenderize the meat. If you prefer an alcohol-free option, you can replace the wine with chicken broth or sparkling water.

Preparing the Recipe:

1. Wash and prepare the chicken thighs: Start by washing the chicken thighs well under cold running water. It’s important to dry them with a paper towel to remove excess water.

2. Cut the thighs: If you wish, you can cut the thighs in half for quicker and more even cooking. This step is optional and depends on your preferences.

3. Prepare the marinade: In a large bowl, mix the oil, paprika, pepper, crushed (or finely chopped) garlic, white wine, and a pinch of salt. Make sure the ingredients are well combined so that the thighs absorb the flavors.

4. Marinate the thighs: Add the thighs to the bowl with the marinade and ensure that each thigh is well coated with the mixture. It’s ideal to let the thighs marinate for at least 30 minutes, but for an even more intense flavor, you can leave them in the fridge overnight.

5. Prepare the baking tray: Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Grease a baking tray with lard, which will help achieve a delicious golden crust.

6. Arrange the thighs: Place the thighs in the prepared tray, skin side up. Pour the remaining marinade over them to keep them juicy during baking.

7. Bake the thighs: Place the tray in the preheated oven and let the thighs bake for about 60 minutes. It’s important to turn them halfway through to brown evenly. Use a fork to check if they are cooked through – the juices that come out should be clear, not pink.

8. Serving: Once the thighs are golden and tender, remove them from the oven and let them rest for 5-10 minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute, giving them a better texture. Serve them hot, alongside your favorite side dish – mashed potatoes, rice, or grilled vegetables are excellent options.

Serving Suggestions:
- A pickle alongside these thighs will add an interesting contrast of textures and flavors. Pickled peppers or sour cucumbers are perfect combinations.
- If you enjoy salads, a green salad with tomatoes and red onion would perfectly complement the meal.

Wing Variation:
If you are a fan of chicken wings, you can use the same marinade to prepare wings. The baking time will be shorter, about 30-40 minutes, depending on their size.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other spices? Of course! You can experiment with different herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to customize the flavor.
- How can I make the thighs spicier? Add a pinch of chili powder or chili sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- What side dishes pair best? Baked potatoes, vegetable rice, or a fresh salad are all excellent options.

Nutritional Information:
Chicken thighs are an excellent source of protein, and the added garlic provides a boost of antioxidants. This recipe can contain approximately 350-400 calories per serving, depending on the chosen side dish.

This oven-baked chicken thigh recipe is not only a delicious choice for everyday meals but also an opportunity to enjoy wonderful moments with loved ones. Enjoy your meal!