Oven-baked chicken thighs with mustard wrapped in bacon

Chicken Thighs with Mustard and Crispy Bacon

Are you looking for a recipe that combines the flavor of chicken with the crispy texture of bacon? Then you've come to the right place! This recipe for chicken thighs wrapped in bacon with mustard is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. Perfect for a family dinner or to impress guests, this main course will quickly become a favorite at the table.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total: 55 minutes
Servings: 6

Necessary ingredients:
- 6-8 chicken thighs
- 10-14 slices of bacon (preferably thin)
- 2-3 tablespoons of mustard (choose a quality mustard, preferably with seeds)
- 2-3 cloves of garlic
- 50 ml dry white wine
- 100 ml water
- Salt, pepper, ginger (to taste)
- New potatoes, for serving

Recipe history:
Bacon-wrapped chicken thighs are a classic combination often found at family meals. This recipe blends the rich flavors of chicken with the intense taste of bacon, creating a delicious contrast. The mustard adds a touch of acidity, while the garlic contributes a deep flavor, turning this dish into a memorable culinary experience.

Ingredient details:
- Chicken thighs: they are an excellent source of protein and are juicier than chicken breast. Make shallow cuts to allow better marination.
- Bacon: choose a high-quality bacon to achieve a crispy texture. Thick bacon may require a longer cooking time, so opt for thin slices for perfect results.
- Mustard: provides a bit of acidity and a hint of spice. You can experiment with different types of mustard, such as Dijon or herb mustard.
- Garlic: adds a deep flavor and helps enhance the taste of the meat.
- White wine: helps deglaze the pan and create a flavorful sauce.

Step by step:
1. Preparing the thighs: Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. Wash the chicken thighs well and pat them dry with a paper towel. Make shallow cuts on the top side of each thigh to allow the mustard and spices to penetrate better into the meat.

2. Marinating the chicken: In a bowl, mix the mustard with salt, pepper, and ginger. Spread the mixture evenly over each chicken thigh, ensuring it gets into the cuts.

3. Wrapping in bacon: Take the slices of bacon and wrap each chicken thigh with two slices, making sure they are well covered. If needed, you can use toothpicks to secure the bacon.

4. Preparing the baking dish: Take a ceramic dish and add 50 ml of white wine and 100 ml of water. Add the finely chopped garlic slices, which will give a special flavor to the dish.

5. Baking: Place the chicken thighs in the dish, with the bacon side up. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. After this interval, turn the thighs over and leave them for another 10 minutes.

6. Browning and serving: Once the thighs are baked, remove the dish from the oven and transfer the thighs to a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Return them to the oven for another 10 minutes until they are nicely browned on top. Meanwhile, you can boil new potatoes in salted water as a side dish.

7. Preparing the garlic sauce: For a delicious sauce, crush 2-3 cloves of garlic and mix them with 50 ml of olive oil, salt, and lemon juice. This will pair perfectly with the chicken thighs.

Serving suggestions:
Serve the chicken thighs with boiled new potatoes or a fresh vegetable salad. The garlic sauce will add extra flavor to the dish. You can accompany this meal with a dry white wine that will highlight the flavors of the meat and bacon.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use another type of meat? Yes, this recipe also works with chicken breast, but the baking time will be shorter.
- Can I make the recipe with turkey meat? Absolutely! Turkey meat will add a different yet equally tasty note.
- How can I make the bacon crispier? You can brown it slightly in a pan before using it to wrap the thighs.

Nutritional benefits:
This recipe is an excellent source of protein due to the chicken, and the bacon provides healthy fats. Garlic is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. New potatoes bring complex carbohydrates that will give you energy throughout the day.

Possible variations:
For a spicy note, you can add a little chili or smoked paprika to the mustard mixture. You can also use fresh or dried herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, to intensify the flavors.

Finalizing the recipe:
Now that you have all the necessary information, it's time to get cooking! This recipe for chicken thighs with mustard and crispy bacon will surely bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Don't forget to enjoy the cooking process and experiment with your favorite flavors. Enjoy your meal!