Oven-baked potatoes with chicken thighs

Oven-baked potatoes with chicken thighs

I propose a delicious and comforting recipe that combines the savory flavors of chicken with the soft texture of potatoes and the freshness of vegetables. This is a perfect recipe for a family dinner or a meal with friends. Additionally, the preparation is simple and does not require too much time spent in the kitchen. Let’s get started!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Marinating time: 2-3 hours
Baking time: 1 hour
Total: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 2 chicken thighs (preferably with bone for a more intense flavor)
- 6 medium-sized potatoes
- 3 ripe tomatoes
- 2 bell peppers (of your preferred color)
- 100 ml red wine (choose a quality one)
- 4 garlic cloves
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Necessary utensils

- A large bowl for marinating
- A baking tray
- A sharp knife
- Aluminum foil
- A spatula or wooden spoon

Step by step

1. Preparing the meat
Start by cleaning the chicken thighs of skin. It is essential to wash them well under cold running water to remove any impurities. Gently, with a sharp knife, score the meat in a few places to allow the flavors to penetrate.

2. Marinating the thighs
In a large bowl, add the cleaned chicken thighs. Cut the garlic cloves into small pieces or crush them, then add them to the meat. Cut the tomatoes into cubes and add them as well. Add salt, pepper, and red wine. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours. Marinating not only intensifies the flavor but also makes the meat more tender.

3. Preparing the vegetables
After the thighs have marinated, it’s time to deal with the vegetables. Peel the potatoes and slice them thinly. Wash the remaining tomatoes and dice them. You can slice the bell peppers into strips or cubes, depending on your preference.

4. Assembling the dish
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. In a baking tray, add the marinated chicken thighs, sliced potatoes, tomatoes, and bell peppers. All ingredients should be evenly distributed. Don’t forget to add the wine from the marinating bowl to the tray for extra flavor.

5. Seasoning
Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste, making sure to cover all ingredients evenly.

6. Baking
Cover the tray with aluminum foil to allow the ingredients to cook evenly and remain juicy. Let the dish bake for 30-35 minutes. Then, remove the foil and leave the dish in the oven for another 15-20 minutes, until the thighs become golden and crispy.

7. Serving
Once the dish is ready, take it out of the oven and let it cool slightly. You can sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a more vibrant look and extra flavor.

Serving suggestions

These oven-baked potatoes with chicken thighs are perfect to be served alongside a fresh green salad or a summer salad with tomatoes and cucumbers. Additionally, basmati rice or rice pilaf would wonderfully complement the meal.

Possible variations

- You can add various vegetables, such as carrots or onions, to enrich the dish.
- Substitute red wine with white wine for a different flavor.
- If you prefer, you can use chicken breast instead of thighs, but you will need to adjust the baking time since the meat cooks faster.

Nutritional benefits

This recipe is rich in protein from chicken, while the vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals. Potatoes are an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, offering long-lasting energy. Additionally, garlic is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use turkey meat instead of chicken?
Yes, you can replace chicken thighs with turkey thighs. The cooking time will remain similar.

2. Is this recipe suitable for holiday meals?
Absolutely! It’s a meal that impresses with simplicity and flavor, making it ideal for special occasions.

3. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add chili peppers or chili flakes to the marinade for a more intense flavor.

4. What drinks pair well with this dish?
The red wine used in the recipe can also be served at the table. Additionally, a light beer or fresh lemonade are excellent choices.

I encourage you to try this simple and tasty recipe, personalize it to your preferences, and enjoy the moments spent around the table with your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!