Oven-roasted aromatic potatoes with thighs

Oven-roasted fragrant potatoes with thighs

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

In a world full of sophisticated recipes, some of the most delicious meals are the simple ones that bring together basic ingredients in perfect harmony. Oven-roasted fragrant potatoes with thighs are an excellent choice for a family meal or a dinner with friends, being a recipe that combines the intense flavor of meat with the flavorful aromas of potatoes. Plus, the preparation is simple, and the result is a feast that will delight all the senses.

Recipe History

Potatoes have been cultivated for thousands of years, and their popularity has steadily grown due to their versatility and pleasant taste. The combination of potatoes and meat is a classic one, found in many culinary cultures. Baking allows the ingredients to blend and enrich each other, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

- 800 g potatoes (preferably new potatoes for their delicate taste)
- 3 chicken thighs (you can use either upper or lower thighs, depending on your preference)
- 3-4 sprigs of fresh rosemary (or 1 tablespoon of dried rosemary, if fresh is not available)
- 1 head of garlic (to add a deep flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Potato seasoning (a combination of paprika, oregano, and thyme works great)
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil (or oil in which you browned the thighs)

Necessary Utensils

- A baking tray
- A large pot for boiling
- A sharp knife
- A wooden spoon or spatula
- A fork

Step-by-step Preparation

1. Preparing the potatoes:
- Start by washing the potatoes well under a cold water jet to remove any impurities.
- Cut the potatoes into quarters (or halves if they are larger) and place them in a pot with cold water.
- Add a tablespoon of salt to the water and bring to a boil. Boil the potatoes for about 10-15 minutes until they become slightly soft but not fully cooked. This step will ensure that the potatoes do not dry out in the oven.

2. Browning the thighs:
- Meanwhile, heat a skillet over medium heat and add a bit of oil. When the oil is hot, place the chicken thighs (without overlapping them) and brown them for about 5-6 minutes on each side until golden. This will add a crispy texture to the outside and enhance the flavor.

3. Assembling the dish:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C.
- In a baking tray, add the semi-cooked potatoes, season with salt, pepper, and potato seasoning. Mix well so that they are evenly coated.
- Place the chicken thighs on top of the potatoes, along with the head of garlic (unpeeled) – this will add a wonderful aroma during baking.
- Pour the 3 tablespoons of oil in which you browned the thighs over the entire dish and add the rosemary sprigs.

4. Baking:
- Place the tray in the preheated oven and let it bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the thighs are fully cooked and the potatoes are nicely browned. You can check if the chicken is cooked by inserting a fork into the meat; the juices should run clear.

5. Serving:
- When the dish is ready, remove the tray from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute, making the meat juicier.
- Serve the fragrant potatoes and thighs on a large plate, sprinkled with a bit of fresh rosemary for a special touch. You can accompany this dish with a fresh green salad or grilled vegetables.

Practical Tips

- Choose potatoes of similar sizes to ensure even cooking.
- If you want to add extra flavor, you can marinate the thighs in advance with crushed garlic, lemon juice, and herbs, letting them sit in the fridge for a few hours or overnight.
- For a spicier version, add a bit of chili pepper or hot paprika to the potatoes.
- If you don't have rosemary, you can replace it with other herbs like thyme or oregano.

Nutritional Benefits

This recipe is rich in protein due to the chicken thighs, and the potatoes provide an excellent source of carbohydrates and fiber. The added garlic not only enhances the flavor but also has numerous health benefits, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This meal is satisfying and balanced, ideal for a comforting dinner.

Combinations and Variations

You can try serving this dish with a fresh summer salad, a yogurt sauce with mint, or even a portion of carrot puree to add a hint of sweetness. Additionally, you can complement the meal with a glass of dry white wine or a cold lemonade to contrast the intense flavors of the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use another type of meat?
Yes, this recipe works great with pork or turkey as well. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of meat chosen.

2. What should I do if I don't have potatoes?
You can replace the potatoes with other vegetables, such as carrots, zucchini, or beets. Cook them until they are soft, but do not let them fall apart.

3. Can the dish be prepared in advance?
Of course! You can prepare the potatoes and thighs a day in advance and keep them in the fridge. When you're ready to serve, you can reheat them in the oven to restore their crispy texture.

In conclusion, oven-roasted fragrant potatoes with thighs are a perfect choice for a delicious, simple, and comforting meal. This recipe will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a warm and welcoming atmosphere around the table. So, put on your apron, prepare your ingredients, and enjoy a savory moment with your loved ones!