Oven-baked chicken thighs with beer and mashed potatoes

Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs with Beer and Mashed Potatoes

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Who doesn't love a sumptuous meal that brings together the authentic flavors of chicken, paired with creamy, buttery mashed potatoes? The recipe for oven-baked chicken thighs with beer and mashed potatoes is not only a delicious choice but also a culinary experience that will delight your senses. The origins of this dish are deeply rooted in culinary traditions, where combining meat with fermented beverages has always been a way to intensify flavors. Allow me to guide you step by step in creating this savory dish.

Ingredients

For the chicken thighs:
- 6 chicken thighs
- 500 ml beer (choose a flavorful, not too bitter beer)
- 6 cloves of garlic
- 1 bell pepper (red or green, as preferred)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon granulated spices
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- salt and pepper, to taste

For the mashed potatoes:
- 500 g potatoes
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons milk (ideally warm)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon marjoram (optional, for extra flavor)

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the chicken thighs

1. Cleaning and washing the thighs: Start by thoroughly cleaning the chicken thighs. Rinse them under cold water and ensure you remove any feathers or impurities.

2. Scoring the thighs: Using a sharp knife, make a few deep cuts in the meat, being careful not to cut all the way through. These cuts will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat better.

3. Filling the cuts: Slice the garlic thinly and dice the bell pepper into small cubes. Insert 1-2 slices of garlic and a few cubes of pepper into each cut. This step will add intense flavor to the thighs.

4. Seasoning: In a bowl, mix the salt, pepper, thyme, and granulated spices. Rub the thighs with this mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.

Step 2: Baking the thighs

1. Preparing the baking tray: Grease a baking tray with olive oil to prevent the thighs from sticking.

2. Initial baking: Place the thighs in the tray, skin side up, and put them in the preheated oven at 200 degrees Celsius for 15 minutes. This time will help brown the skin.

3. Turning the thighs: After 15 minutes, turn the thighs on the other side and leave them in the oven for another 15 minutes.

4. Adding the beer: After half an hour of baking, add the beer to the tray, being careful not to pour it directly over the thighs, but around the edges of the tray. This will keep the meat tender and create a delicious sauce.

5. Finishing the baking: Let the thighs bake at 180 degrees Celsius for 45 minutes until they become golden and crispy.

Step 3: Preparing the mashed potatoes

1. Boiling the potatoes: Peel the potatoes and cut them into quarters. Boil them in salted boiling water. Let them cook for 15-20 minutes or until they become soft.

2. Mashing the potatoes: After boiling, drain the potatoes and press them through a sieve or use a potato masher to make them as fine as possible. This method will ensure a super-creamy mash.

3. Adding the ingredients: While the mash is still hot, add the butter and mix well. Then, gradually add the warm milk, stirring constantly until you achieve a fluffy texture. Adjust with salt and, if desired, add a little marjoram for extra flavor.

4. Keeping the mash warm: If you're not serving the mash immediately, you can keep the pot over a bowl of hot water, covering it to prevent a crust from forming.

Serve with style

The oven-baked chicken thighs with beer can be served alongside the creamy mash. Give them an attractive look by sprinkling fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, on top. You can also add roasted vegetables to complete the meal. This combination not only looks good but also offers a delightful palette of flavors.

Useful tips

- Choosing the beer: Opt for a lager or pale ale for a milder taste. Avoid very bitter beers, as they can negatively affect the final flavor of the dish.
- Variations: You can also experiment with other spices, such as paprika or rosemary, to give the recipe a twist.
- Storing leftovers: If there are leftover thighs, you can use them in salads or sandwiches the next day.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, but the baking time will be shorter, as the breast cooks faster. Make sure it doesn't dry out by checking the internal temperature.

What else can I do with leftover beer?
Beer can be used to make sauces or marinades for other types of meat. You can also enjoy it alongside the meal.

How many carbs are in mashed potatoes?
Mashed potatoes have an average of 20 grams of carbohydrates per serving, making them a good source of energy, but should be consumed in moderation.

Nutritional benefits

This dish is rich in protein due to the chicken thighs, while the mashed potatoes provide essential carbohydrates for energy. Garlic offers antioxidant benefits, and beer, consumed in moderation, is a source of B vitamins.

Conclusion

The recipe for oven-baked chicken thighs with beer and mashed potatoes is perfect for a family dinner or a weekend lunch with friends. Its savory taste and the soft texture of the mash will make every meal a special moment. So, embrace this recipe, experiment, and don’t forget to enjoy every bite! Bon appétit!