Oven-baked chicken thighs with tomato sauce

Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs with Tomato Sauce

There are moments in life when a delicious meal becomes an unforgettable memory, and oven-baked chicken thighs with tomato sauce are exactly that kind of dish. The enticing aromas, the tender texture of the meat, and the rich tomato sauce transform a simple dinner into a culinary celebration. Whether you prepare it for a gathering with friends or for a relaxing evening with family, this recipe is simple, quick, and, most importantly, absolutely delicious.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs (preferably with skin for a richer flavor)
- 2 dried onions (or one large onion)
- 2-3 green onions
- 2-3 cloves of garlic
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 3-4 tomatoes (fresh or canned, depending on the season)
- Water (about 250 ml, but adjust as needed)
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon of sweet or hot paprika (to taste)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 2-3 bay leaves
- 5-6 peppercorns
- Salt and ground pepper, to taste

Preparation:

1. Preparing the chicken thighs:
Start by washing the chicken thighs well under cold running water. Let them drain in a colander or on a paper towel. It is important for the meat to be dry to achieve a beautiful crust during baking.

2. Seasoning the meat:
In a large bowl, add the chicken thighs and season them with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Add the soy sauce, which will not only enhance the flavors but also help caramelize the skin. Mix well so that each thigh is evenly coated with the spices.

3. Preparing the sauce:
In another bowl, finely chop the dried onion and garlic. The green onions can be sliced into rings. Heat the olive oil in a pan and add the onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until they become translucent and start to release their aromas. Add water, bay leaves, peppercorns, and a pinch of salt. This combination will form the delicious base of the sauce.

4. Assembling the dish:
In a baking dish, place the chicken thighs and pour the onion and garlic mixture over them. Cover the dish with aluminum foil or a lid to prevent the meat from drying out.

5. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the dish in the oven and let the thighs bake for 40-50 minutes. It is important to baste the meat with the sauce from the dish occasionally to keep it tender and juicy. If you notice that the sauce evaporates too quickly, add a little water.

6. Adding the tomatoes:
Once the thighs are almost done, grate the tomatoes or cut them into cubes, then add them to the baking dish. These will add a fresh taste and a pleasant acidity. Let the dish bake for another 10-15 minutes, uncovered, to allow the sauce to thicken.

7. Finishing the dish:
Once the thighs are golden brown and the flavors have melded perfectly, remove the dish from the oven. Place the thighs on a platter and pour the sauce into a gravy boat. Don’t forget to sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top, which will add a touch of freshness and color.

8. Serving:
Oven-baked chicken thighs with tomato sauce are served hot, alongside a delicious side dish. They can be accompanied by sautéed cabbage, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Tips and useful advice:
- If you want to add a touch of acidity, you can include a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice in the sauce.
- Instead of water, you can use chicken broth for an even more flavorful sauce.
- Experiment with spices! Add a pinch of cinnamon or a few olives for a unique taste.

Nutritional benefits:
Chicken thighs are an excellent source of protein, essential for building muscles and maintaining health. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the body from free radicals. Onions and garlic have anti-inflammatory properties and can boost the immune system.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other parts of the chicken?
Yes, you can use chicken breast or wings, but the cooking time will vary.

2. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the thighs a day ahead and reheat them in the oven before serving.

3. What other side dishes can I use?
Pilaf rice, baked potatoes, or steamed vegetables are all excellent options.

This recipe for oven-baked chicken thighs with tomato sauce will not only delight your taste buds but will also bring a touch of warmth and comfort to every meal. I invite you to try it and enjoy every bite! Enjoy your meal!