Oven-baked chicken with quinces

Baked Chicken with Quince Recipe: A Flavorful Blend of Tastes

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

In a world full of quick and easy recipes, baked chicken with quince remains a refined choice, full of aromas and textures that will delight your senses. This recipe is not only simple but also adds a touch of elegance to your table, transforming an ordinary dinner into a memorable feast. We will explore each step of the process together, so you can achieve a perfect result, regardless of your kitchen experience level.

Necessary ingredients:
- 5 chicken thighs (or any other preferred chicken meat)
- 2 medium, ripe quinces
- 3 medium-sized potatoes (approximately 200 g each, one for each person)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon ginger powder
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or another type of oil, such as canola oil)

Preparing the meat:
Start by washing the chicken thighs well. It is recommended to soak them in cold water with a bit of baking soda for 20 minutes. This trick not only removes impurities but also helps tenderize the meat, making it juicier. After rinsing the meat, pat it dry with a paper towel to remove excess water.

In a bowl, mix the soy sauce, honey, ginger powder, and one tablespoon of oil. This mixture will add a sweet-spicy flavor and will coat the meat in an irresistible glaze. Using a kitchen brush or simply your hands, generously coat the chicken thighs with this mixture, ensuring they are evenly covered. Let them rest for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Preparing the vegetables:
Meanwhile, peel the potatoes. If they are medium-sized, you can leave them whole, but if they are larger, cut them in half or quarters to ensure even cooking. The quinces should be washed well and then sliced into pieces about 2 cm thick. Make sure to remove the seeds and the hard core to avoid any unpleasantness when serving.

Cooking the meat:
In a heated skillet, add one tablespoon of oil and let it warm slightly. Add the chicken thighs and sauté them for 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful, golden color. Be careful not to burn them, just give them a nice appetizing crust.

Assembling and baking:
In a non-stick baking dish, arrange the potatoes and quinces around the edges, leaving space in the middle for the meat. Carefully place the chicken thighs in the center of the dish. Pour the oil from the skillet over the vegetables and meat to add extra flavor and help achieve a crispy texture.

Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and place the dish inside. Let it bake for about 30 minutes or until the meat is cooked through and the chicken juices run clear. If you have larger potatoes, make sure they cook evenly with the other ingredients; otherwise, you can cut them smaller.

Serving and variations:
Once the chicken is ready, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. You might consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for an extra flavor boost. This recipe pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a yogurt sauce with mint, which will balance the sweetness of the quinces.

Tips and tricks:
- You can replace quinces with apples or pears for a sweeter version. These fruits caramelize beautifully during baking, adding a delicious taste to the dish.
- If you want to add more vegetables, carrots or onions will bring a splash of color and flavor.
- Baked chicken with quince is an excellent dish for holiday meals or special occasions, but also for an ordinary family dinner.

Nutritional benefits:
This recipe provides a good source of protein from chicken, carbohydrates from potatoes, and vitamins from quinces, making it a healthy choice. Quinces are high in fiber and contain antioxidants that help strengthen the immune system.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use turkey instead of chicken? Absolutely! Turkey will add a different flavor but will be just as delicious.
- What kind of wine pairs best with this dish? A dry white wine or a light rosé are excellent choices that will complement the sweet-spicy flavors.
- How long can I keep the leftovers? You can store leftovers in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, and for longer storage, you can freeze them.

This baked chicken with quince recipe blends tradition with innovation, offering you an unforgettable culinary experience. Not only is it a delicious dinner, but also an opportunity to experiment with ingredients that bring a touch of magic to every meal. So, embrace the art of cooking and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen!