Oven-roasted flavored thighs

Oven Aromatic Thighs - A Simple and Tasty Recipe

If you are looking for a delicious and easy-to-make recipe, oven aromatic thighs are the perfect choice. This recipe, discovered a few years ago in Practic magazine, combines the flavor of chicken meat with the enticing aromas of garlic and tomatoes, resulting in a dish that will delight all the senses. This recipe is ideal for family dinners or a gathering with friends, bringing warmth and conviviality to any meal.

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

Ingredients:
- 1 kg chicken thighs with bone - Bone-in thighs are juicier and more flavorful, but you can also choose boneless thighs if you prefer.
- 5 cloves of garlic - Garlic adds a deep flavor and a spicy taste, perfect to complement the meat.
- 4 tablespoons sunflower oil - The oil helps brown the thighs and intensify the flavors.
- 400 g diced tomatoes - You can use canned or fresh tomatoes, depending on the season and preferences. Fresh tomatoes will add extra freshness.
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme - Thyme provides an aromatic taste and unmistakable fragrance. It is a versatile ingredient that pairs perfectly with chicken meat.
- 1 tablespoon salt - Salt is essential to bring out the flavors of the ingredients.
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper - Black pepper adds a slight spiciness and is a classic seasoning in meat dishes.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preparing the thighs: Start by washing the chicken thighs well under cold running water. This will help remove any impurities. Then, place the thighs in a baking dish, ensuring they have enough space to brown evenly.

2. Seasoning: Chop the garlic cloves into small pieces and add them over the thighs. Sprinkle thyme, pepper, and salt, then pour the sunflower oil. Use a spoon or your hands to massage the thighs well, ensuring they are completely covered with spices. This step is crucial for allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat well.

3. Adding water: Pour 50 ml of water into the dish to allow steam to form during baking, which will make the meat even more tender. Cover the dish with a lid or aluminum foil to retain moisture.

4. Initial baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and place the dish in the oven. Let the thighs bake for 30-40 minutes. After this interval, remove the dish from the oven and turn the thighs to the other side. This step ensures even browning on both sides.

5. Adding tomatoes: Once you have turned the thighs, add the diced tomatoes to the dish, distributing them evenly. They will help create a delicious sauce that will accompany the meat.

6. Final baking: Put the dish back in the oven for another 30 minutes. Check from time to time, and if you notice that the juice from the thighs is reducing too quickly, you can add a little water. The thighs are ready when the tomatoes have softened well and the meat is tender, easily pulling away from the bone.

Practical Tips:
- Choosing the meat: Bone-in thighs are preferred for their juiciness, but you can also use chicken breast if you prefer leaner meat. Make sure to adjust the baking time, as breast cooks faster.
- Spice varieties: You can experiment with other herbs, such as oregano or rosemary, for a different taste.
- Sauce: If you want a thicker sauce, you can add a tablespoon of cornstarch diluted in water in the last 10 minutes of baking.
- Serving: These aromatic thighs pair wonderfully with simple sides, such as mashed potatoes or a fresh salad.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits:
This recipe for oven aromatic thighs contains approximately 350-400 calories per serving, depending on the amount of oil used. Chicken thighs are an excellent source of protein, while tomatoes provide antioxidants and vitamins. Garlic is known for its antibacterial properties and for improving the immune system.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use thawed chicken? Yes, but make sure the thighs are completely thawed before cooking to allow for even cooking.
- What side dishes pair well? Usually, mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh vegetable salad are excellent choices.
- Can I replace tomatoes with another ingredient? You can also use bell peppers or zucchini, but the baking time may vary.

Conclusion:
Oven aromatic thighs are a simple yet extremely satisfying recipe that will make you return to it again and again. Use this recipe as a base, experimenting with different spices and sides. Whether you serve it for a family dinner or to impress friends, this dish will surely bring smiles to everyone’s faces. Enjoy your meal!