Oven-baked chicken thighs with garlic and herb potatoes

Oven-baked chicken thighs with garlic and herbed potatoes

Who doesn't love a delicious meal that fills the house with enticing aromas? This recipe for oven-baked chicken thighs with garlic and herbed potatoes is just what you need for a flavorful and comforting dinner. It's a simple and quick recipe, perfect for a family evening or to impress guests. Plus, marinating the chicken thighs enhances the flavor, while the potatoes become golden and crispy, enriched by olive oil and aromatic herbs.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Marinating time: 12 hours (ideally overnight)
Baking time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Total time: 13 hours 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Necessary ingredients:

For the marinade:
- 8 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried and crushed thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried and crushed rosemary
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- a pinch of freshly ground black pepper

For the thighs and vegetables:
- 2 lemons (one for juice, the other for roasting)
- 4-6 chicken thighs (preferably skin-on and bone-in for richer flavor)
- 4 heads of garlic, cut in half
- 1 kg potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley
- salt to taste

Step by step

1. Preparing the marinade: In a large bowl, mix the olive oil with the Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, thyme, rosemary, brown sugar, and pepper. This mixture will form the base of the marinade, bringing a deep and complex flavor. Take your time to mix all the ingredients well so that the flavors combine harmoniously.

2. Preparing the lemons: Grate the zest of one lemon and set it aside. Then, cut the lemon in half and squeeze the juice from one half directly into the marinade. The grated lemon zest will add a fresh note to the final dish.

3. Marinating the chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. This step is essential as it allows the spices to penetrate the meat, making it juicier and more flavorful.

4. Preparing the potatoes and garlic: The day before, you can also prepare the potatoes. Peel and cube them, then place them in a large baking dish along with the halved garlic heads.

5. Baking: Preheat the oven to 200°C. Pour most of the marinade over the potatoes, gently mixing to coat each potato cube. Place the dish in the oven for 20 minutes, until the potatoes start to turn golden.

6. Adding the chicken: After 20 minutes, remove the dish from the oven. Add the marinated chicken thighs and the other lemon halves. Pour the remaining marinade over the chicken and vegetables. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture.

7. Finishing the dish: Bake everything for 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the meat is fully cooked and juicy. It is important to ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 75°C. In the last 10 minutes, you can remove the foil to allow the thighs to develop a golden and appetizing crust.

8. Serving: Once the dish is ready, remove it from the oven and sprinkle with chopped parsley, grated lemon zest, and salt to taste. These will add a touch of freshness and color. Serve with a fresh green salad or a side of steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Chef's tip
To enhance the flavor of the meat, you can also add a few slices of red onion or carrot to the dish. Additionally, if you enjoy spicier flavors, feel free to add a bit of chili pepper to the marinade.

Nutritional benefits
This recipe is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. Chicken thighs are an excellent source of protein, while potatoes provide complex carbohydrates, fiber, and vitamins. Garlic is known for its antibacterial and antioxidant properties, making this dish not only tasty but also healthy.

Frequently asked questions
Can I use another type of meat?
Of course! This marinade works great with cut-up chicken or other types of meat, such as turkey.

What other recipes can it be paired with?
Oven-baked chicken thighs pair wonderfully with vegetable rice or quinoa. Additionally, a dry white wine or a citrus cocktail would perfectly complement the meal.

How can I store leftovers?
The dish stores well in the refrigerator in airtight containers for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave, but I recommend reheating in the oven to maintain the crispy texture.

Possible variations
If you like to experiment in the kitchen, you can add different herbs to the marinade, such as oregano or basil. Additionally, you can try adding seasonal vegetables, like carrots or zucchini, to the dish for extra color and nutrients.

Conclusion
This recipe for oven-baked chicken thighs with garlic and herbed potatoes is a true feast for the taste buds. It is simple to prepare, and its flavors will transform any meal into a special occasion. Don't forget to share your impressions with friends and family and give them the chance to enjoy this delicacy! Bon appétit!