Oven-baked chicken thighs with vegetables

Oven-baked chicken thighs with vegetables

A savory dish, full of aromas and colors that will delight your senses! Oven-baked chicken thighs with vegetables are perfect for a family dinner or a festive meal. This simple and tasty recipe will help you create a main course that will impress anyone. Moreover, it is a versatile recipe that can be adapted to your preferences. Let's get started!

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

Ingredients

- 4 chicken thighs
- 1 medium bell pepper
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1 large carrot
- 1 glass of red wine (approximately 200 ml)
- 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt, pepper, sweet paprika, thyme (to taste)

Necessary utensils

- Oven-safe dish
- Kitchen knife
- Cutting board
- Wooden spoon

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preparing the ingredients: Before you start, make sure you have all the ingredients at hand. Wash the chicken thighs and dry them with a paper towel. This will help achieve a crispy skin.

2. Scoring the thighs: Use a sharp knife to make a few shallow cuts on the thighs, both on the top and bottom. This step will not only help the flavors penetrate but will also ensure even cooking.

3. Preparing the vegetables: Cut the bell pepper into thin strips and the carrot into rounds. The garlic can be left whole or halved, depending on your preference. The vegetables will add a delicious flavor to the dish and contribute to a colorful presentation.

4. Arranging in the baking dish: In an oven-safe dish, add the chicken thighs and the cut vegetables. Drizzle everything with olive oil, then add salt, pepper, sweet paprika, and thyme. Mix the ingredients well to ensure that each piece of chicken and vegetable is coated with the spices.

5. Adding the liquid: Pour 1 glass of water into the dish, which will help maintain moisture and prevent the meat from drying out during baking.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Now it's time to place the dish in the oven. Bake the chicken thighs for 30 minutes, then carefully turn them over.

7. Drizzling with wine: After flipping the thighs, add the red wine over them. The wine will not only add a rich flavor but will also help tenderize the meat. Continue baking for another 30 minutes until the chicken is well cooked and the vegetables are tender.

8. Checking doneness: To ensure that the chicken is fully cooked, you can use a kitchen thermometer. The internal temperature of the meat should reach 75 degrees Celsius.

9. Serving: Once the dish is ready, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. You can serve the chicken thighs with a side of golden potatoes or a mixed salad rich in fresh vegetables. A green salad with cherry tomatoes and a simple dressing of olive oil and balsamic vinegar will pair perfectly!

Suggestions and variations

- Vegetable variations: You can also add other vegetables, such as zucchini or onion, depending on the season and what you have on hand.
- Alternative spices: Instead of thyme, you can use rosemary or oregano to change the flavor profile.
- White wine: If you prefer a lighter taste, you can use white wine instead of red.

Nutritional benefits

This chicken thighs with vegetables recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. Chicken is an excellent source of protein, while the vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals. Olive oil is known for its heart health benefits, being rich in monounsaturated fatty acids.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use boneless chicken thighs? Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs, but the baking time will be shorter. Check occasionally to avoid drying them out.
- How can I make the chicken spicier? If you like spicy dishes, you can add a pinch of chili powder or chili sauce to the chicken marinade.
- Can I prepare the recipe in advance? Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and vegetables a few hours before baking to enhance the flavors.

Serving and presentation

For an elegant presentation, place the thighs on a large platter, with the colorful vegetables around them. Sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for an extra touch of color and flavor. A bottle of red wine will perfectly complement the meal, creating a warm and pleasant atmosphere.

Conclusion

Oven-baked chicken thighs with vegetables are a classic, easy-to-make dish full of flavor. Whether you serve it for a family dinner or at a festive meal, this recipe will surely be a success. Try it and let yourself be carried away by its aroma! Enjoy your meal!