Oven-baked chicken with mushrooms and tomatoes

Oven-baked chicken with mushrooms and tomatoes – a delicious and comforting recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 45-60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4

When it comes to meat dishes, chicken is a versatile and easy-to-cook ingredient, perfect for any occasion. This oven-baked chicken recipe with mushrooms and tomatoes is not only simple but also offers a savory combination that will delight the whole family. The enticing aroma that will fill the house while the chicken bakes will make everyone eagerly await sitting down to eat.

A bit of history
Oven-baked chicken recipes are often associated with family meals and festive moments. In many cultures, roasting meat has been a tradition for centuries, being an efficient way to cook and blend flavors. Mushrooms and tomatoes are ingredients that have been used in cooking over time, bringing not only flavor but also a palette of essential nutrients.

Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs without back (about 800 g)
- 500 g fresh mushrooms (preferably champignon)
- 4 garlic cloves
- 2 medium tomatoes
- 1 cup of tomato juice (about 250 ml)
- Chicken seasoning (e.g., salt, sweet paprika, oregano)
- Freshly ground pepper
- Olive oil or sunflower oil
- Fresh dill for serving

Preparation instructions

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing the chicken thighs well under cold running water. Use a paper towel to pat them dry. The oil will help the spices adhere to the meat and will provide a delicious crust.

Step 2: Seasoning the chicken
Rub the chicken thighs with olive oil, ensuring they are well coated. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and your favorite chicken spices, maybe adding a bit of oregano for extra flavor. Set them aside for 10-15 minutes to allow the spices to penetrate.

Step 3: Preparing the mushrooms
Clean the mushrooms and slice them thicker to maintain their texture during baking. It’s important not to cut them too small, as they can become too soft and won’t add crunch to the dish.

Step 4: Going to the oven
Preheat the oven to 200°C. Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish, adding a splash of water to create steam during baking. This will help keep the meat juicy. Bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes.

Step 5: Adding the mushrooms and vegetables
After 25 minutes, remove the dish from the oven. It’s the perfect time to add the sliced mushrooms. Chop the 4 garlic cloves and add them to the dish, along with the diced tomatoes and tomato juice. These ingredients will help create a delicious sauce that will envelop the chicken.

Step 6: Final baking
Put the dish back in the oven and let it bake for another 20-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked, and the tomato juice has reduced and thickened. You can check if the chicken is cooked properly using a cooking thermometer – the internal temperature should be 75°C.

Step 7: Serving
Once the dish is ready, take it out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve it with boiled potatoes, which you can sprinkle with freshly chopped dill for extra flavor. This will not only add a pleasant appearance but will also enhance the taste.

Practical tips
- You can replace the chicken thighs with chicken breast for a leaner option, but be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out quickly.
- Add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers to create an even more colorful and nutritious dish.
- If you like a spicier taste, you can add chili flakes to the spice mix.

Nutritional information (per serving)
- Calories: ~350 kcal
- Protein: 30 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 2 g

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use canned mushrooms?
Although fresh mushrooms provide the best texture, you can also use canned mushrooms, but it’s best to drain them well and add them towards the end of baking to prevent excess water.

2. What other side dishes go well with this dish?
Besides boiled potatoes, you can serve the chicken with mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad for a crunchy contrast.

3. How can I store the dish for later consumption?
Oven-baked chicken with mushrooms and tomatoes keeps excellently in the refrigerator, in an airtight container, for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave.

This oven-baked chicken recipe with mushrooms and tomatoes is not only easy to prepare but also offers an unforgettable taste. So don’t hesitate to try it and enjoy every bite! I invite you to experiment and put your personal touch on this dish, perhaps with a splash of lemon or seasonal fresh herbs. Enjoy your meal!