Oven-baked vegetable pulpits

Oven-baked chicken thighs with vegetables

Who doesn't love a dish that combines the delicate flavors of chicken with the freshness of vegetables? Oven-baked chicken thighs with vegetables are an excellent choice for a family dinner or a meal with friends, and this recipe will guide you step by step to achieve a savory and appetizing result. Moreover, it is a simple recipe that does not require complex cooking techniques, perfect for anyone starting out in the kitchen or for those looking to prepare a quick and tasty lunch.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 5 medium potatoes
- 2 onions
- 2 carrots
- 4 garlic cloves
- 5-6 mushrooms
- 1-2 bell peppers (preferably one red and one green for a colorful appearance)
- 3 chicken thighs
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Delikat (or another preferred seasoning)
- Dried thyme
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- 100 ml white wine (optional, but recommended to enhance flavors)

Brief history of the recipe:
The dish of oven-baked chicken thighs with vegetables has deep roots in culinary tradition, being a cooking method appreciated for centuries. Baking allows the ingredients to combine and develop their flavors, and using fresh vegetables makes this dish not only delicious but also healthy. This recipe can be easily adapted according to the season or personal preferences, making it extremely versatile.

Preparation method:
1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by washing all the vegetables well. Peel the potatoes, carrots, and onions. Cut the potatoes into suitable cubes (about 2-3 cm) for even baking. The carrots can be sliced into rounds or sticks, and the onion is cut into quarters. Clean the mushrooms and slice them, and cut the bell pepper into cubes.

2. Assembling the vegetables in the tray:
In a large tray, lightly grease the bottom with olive oil. Arrange the chopped vegetables so that they are evenly distributed. This will allow the vegetables to bake evenly and absorb the flavors of the chicken thighs.

3. Preparing the chicken thighs:
Wash the chicken thighs and pat them dry with a paper towel. Generously season them with salt, pepper, Delikat, and thyme. Add a few drops of olive oil to make them juicier, then drizzle with wine. Marinating the thighs with the spices will add an intense flavor, and the wine will help tenderize the meat.

4. Baking:
Place the chicken thighs on top of the vegetables in the tray. Cover the tray with aluminum foil for the first 20 minutes of baking, then remove it for the last 20 minutes. Set the oven to 180-200 degrees Celsius. Check if the thighs are cooked using a cooking thermometer (the meat should reach an internal temperature of 75 degrees Celsius).

5. Serving:
Once the dish is ready, take it out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This will help retain the juices in the meat. Serve the thighs on a platter, accompanied by the baked vegetables. You can add a drizzle of olive oil and a few fresh parsley leaves for a more decorative appearance.

Practical tips:
- You can experiment with other seasonal vegetables, such as zucchini or eggplant, to add more colors and flavors.
- If you want a more intense flavor, you can let the thighs marinate in the spices for an hour before cooking.
- Substitute the white wine with chicken broth for an alcohol-free version that will add moisture and flavor.
- Serve the dish alongside a fresh green salad or a portion of rice to complete the meal.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, but the cooking time will be shorter, so be sure not to overcook them.

2. How can I tell if the vegetables are cooked enough?
The vegetables should be tender but not completely soft. You can check with a fork.

3. How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add chili peppers or chili flakes to the spice mix.

Nutritional benefits:
Chicken thighs are an excellent source of protein, and the vegetables add fiber, vitamins, and essential minerals. This recipe is balanced and can be part of a healthy diet, having a moderate calorie content that varies depending on the amount of oil used and the portions of meat.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to start cooking! Oven-baked chicken thighs with vegetables are a perfect choice to bring the family to the table, and the aroma that will spread throughout the house will surely make you feel welcome. Enjoy your meal!