Oven-baked pulpits

Oven-baked chicken thighs with roasted vegetables – a true feast for the senses!

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

If you are looking for a simple yet impressively tasty recipe, oven-baked chicken thighs with vegetables are the perfect choice. This dish is not only filling but also very versatile, allowing you to adapt it based on your favorite vegetables or the spices you have on hand.

Chicken thighs have a long and flavorful history, being a staple ingredient in many culinary cultures. Baked in the oven, they become tender and juicy, and the combination with vegetables adds a touch of freshness and a unique taste.

Ingredients you will need:

- 6 chicken thighs (or you can opt for wings if you prefer)
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil (or other vegetable oil, to taste)
- Salt (to taste)
- Freshly ground pepper (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- 500 g of potatoes (cut into cubes)
- 300 g of carrots (sliced)
- 250 g of mushrooms (sliced)
- 200 ml of water (or chicken broth for extra flavor)

Step by step – How to prepare oven-baked chicken thighs:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the chicken thighs well under cold running water. This will remove any impurities. Pat them dry with a paper towel.

2. Seasoning the thighs: In a small bowl, mix the olive oil with salt, pepper, thyme, and basil. Use this mixture to coat the chicken thighs, ensuring they are evenly covered. This step is essential for adding delicious flavor to the meat.

3. Preparing the vegetables: While seasoning the thighs, you can prepare the vegetables. Cut the potatoes, carrots, and mushrooms. These will not only complement the dish but also absorb the delicious flavors of the spices.

4. Assembling the dish: In a large baking tray, grease the bottom with a bit of butter or oil. Then, place the chicken thighs in the center, leaving enough space for the vegetables. Surround the thighs with the potatoes, carrots, and mushrooms. This arrangement will allow the vegetables to cook evenly and become tender.

5. Adding the liquid: Pour water (or chicken broth) into the tray, being careful not to splash the thighs. This step will keep the meat moist during baking.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Place the tray in the oven and let it bake for about 1 hour. You can check occasionally if the thighs are done by piercing one with a fork; the juices that come out should be clear.

7. Finishing the dish: After 1 hour, check if the thighs have a beautiful golden color and if the vegetables are tender. If you want a crispier crust, you can leave the tray in the oven for another 5-10 minutes at a higher temperature.

8. Serving: Remove the tray from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. You can pair this dish with a fresh green salad or a serving of rice to complete the meal. A bottle of white wine would also be an excellent choice to highlight the delicious flavors of the chicken.

Practical tips:

- Variations: You can experiment with different vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or onions, depending on the season and your preferences.
- Spices: Instead of thyme and basil, you can try combinations with paprika, garlic, or rosemary to achieve different flavors.
- Make-ahead: If you want to save time, you can prepare the thighs a day in advance, letting them marinate in the spices. This will intensify the flavors.

Nutritional benefits:

Chicken thighs are an excellent source of protein, making them ideal for a balanced diet. Adding vegetables not only enhances the dish's appearance but also provides essential vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, contributing to a healthy diet.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use boneless chicken thighs? Certainly! Boneless thighs will cook faster and will be just as delicious.
- What can I do with leftovers? Leftover thighs can be used in salads, sandwiches, or soups, and the vegetables can be mashed to create a delicious puree.

These oven-baked chicken thighs, served alongside aromatic vegetables, are an excellent choice for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. So, don't hesitate to try this simple yet tasty recipe and enjoy every bite!