Oven-baked chicken thighs with bell peppers

Chicken Thighs with Peppers in the Oven – a Delicious and Comforting Recipe

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Introduction

Chicken thighs are an excellent choice for a simple yet flavorful dinner. They are juicy, aromatic, and very versatile, pairing perfectly with a variety of side dishes. In this recipe, the chicken thighs are baked in the oven along with colorful peppers, adding not only a touch of freshness but also an appealing visual aspect. I will explore with you how to achieve a delicious meal that will surely impress family and friends.

The origin of chicken thighs with vegetables in the oven is closely linked to culinary traditions of cooking meat together with vegetables to create nourishing and balanced meals. This cooking method allows the flavors to meld, and the vegetables to absorb the juiciness of the meat, resulting in a tasty and satisfying dish.

Necessary Ingredients

- 6 chicken thighs (preferably with skin)
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil
- Chicken spices:
- 1 teaspoon of iodized salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground pepper
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika
- 2 bell peppers (one red, one yellow, and one green for a colorful appearance)
- 2 medium carrots
- 200 ml of dry red wine
- 150 g of green bean pods

Helpful Tips about Ingredients

For a more intense flavor, choose chicken thighs with skin, as this helps maintain the juiciness of the meat during cooking. Using olive oil not only enhances the taste but also brings health benefits, being a good source of healthy fats. The spices are what add personality to the dish, so feel free to adjust them to your taste. For example, if you love spicier flavors, a dash of chili powder can be added.

Preparation Method

1. Preparing the Ingredients
Start by washing the chicken thighs under cold running water, then dry them with a kitchen towel. Place them in a large bowl. Clean the peppers, carrots, and green bean pods. Cut the peppers into large cubes and the carrots into rounds.

2. Seasoning the Thighs
Add the olive oil over the chicken thighs and season them with salt, pepper, thyme, rosemary, and paprika. Mix well so that all the spices evenly coat each thigh.

3. Initial Baking
Preheat the oven to 200°C (high heat). Place the chicken thighs in an ovenproof dish, skin side up, and put the dish in the oven for about 20 minutes. This step helps achieve a crispy and golden skin.

4. Adding the Vegetables
After 20 minutes, remove the dish from the oven and add the chopped vegetables around the thighs – the peppers, carrots, and green bean pods. Pour the red wine over the vegetables and meat, ensuring the wine covers the bottom of the dish, but without flooding the thighs.

5. Final Baking
Return the dish to the oven and let it bake for another 10 minutes. This time will allow the wine to reduce and enrich the flavors.

6. Serving
Once the thighs are well cooked and the vegetables are tender, remove the dish from the oven. Serve the dish hot, alongside creamy mashed potatoes and a fresh seasonal salad.

Serving Suggestions

For an extra burst of flavor, you can add a squeeze of freshly squeezed lemon juice on top before serving. This will bring a touch of freshness and perfectly complement the rich flavors of the dish.

Possible Variations

This recipe is extremely versatile. You can add other vegetables, such as zucchini or onion, which will caramelize and add sweetness. You can also experiment with different types of spices, such as curry or Italian herbs, to completely change the flavor profile.

Nutritional Information

This recipe is rich in protein due to the chicken thighs, while the vegetables provide a significant amount of vitamins and fiber. One serving has approximately 450 calories, depending on the amount of oil and wine used.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, but you need to reduce the cooking time, as chicken breast cooks faster. It is recommended to bake the breast for 15 minutes in the first stage.

2. What other side dishes can I serve alongside?
Besides mashed potatoes, wild rice or quinoa are excellent alternatives. Also, a fresh summer salad would perfectly complement the meal.

3. How can I store leftovers?
Leftover chicken thighs can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or on the stovetop.

4. Can the dish be frozen?
Yes, it is possible to freeze the baked thighs, but it is recommended to consume them within 2 months for the best quality.

In conclusion, chicken thighs with peppers in the oven are an excellent choice for a delicious and satisfying meal. With simple ingredients and an easy technique, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite. Don't hesitate to experiment and add your own personal touch! Enjoy your meal!