Rustic Lunch

Rustic Lunch with Grilled Chicken Thighs and Green Salad

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Welcome to the world of rustic delights, where tradition and simplicity meet in flavorful dishes! Today, we will prepare boneless grilled chicken thighs, accompanied by a fresh salad. This recipe is not only quick and easy to make but also an invitation to enjoy the natural flavors of the ingredients. Whether you are in the midst of nature by a wooden grill or in the comfort of your home, this rustic lunch will bring a touch of joy to your table.

Ingredients

- 6 boneless chicken thighs
- Grill spices (coarse salt, pepper, sweet paprika, granulated garlic)
- 2 heads of green lettuce
- 2 bunches of green onions
- 2 bunches of radishes
- 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- A rustic bread (ideally fresh, baked in a hearth)

Ingredient details

Chicken thighs are an excellent source of protein and are juicier than other parts of the chicken due to their fat content. When choosing spices, opt for those you like best and don't hesitate to experiment! A combination of coarse salt, freshly ground pepper, sweet paprika, and granulated garlic will turn the meat into a delicacy.

Green salad is a versatile ingredient that brings freshness and crunch to your table. Green onions and radishes, with their distinct flavors, perfectly complement the salad. Extra virgin olive oil adds a touch of elegance and health, while balsamic vinegar provides a pleasant acidity that balances the flavors.

Preparation

1. Preparing the grill: Start by preparing the wooden grill. Make sure you have enough wood to achieve a steady heat. Let it burn until you have an even fire, and the wood turns to coals.

2. Seasoning the chicken thighs: In a bowl, season the chicken thighs with coarse salt, pepper, sweet paprika, and granulated garlic. Make sure each thigh is well coated with spices for an intense flavor.

3. Grilling: Place the thighs on the hot grill, being careful not to overcrowd them. Cook for about 15-20 minutes on each side or until the meat is well cooked and has a nice golden crust. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature (it should be 75°C).

4. Preparing the salad: While the thighs are cooking, wash and tear the green lettuce leaves into smaller pieces. Slice the green onions into rounds and the radishes into thin slices. Put all the ingredients in a large bowl.

5. Assembling the salad: Sprinkle salt over the salad, add the olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Gently mix to combine the flavors. Taste and adjust the seasoning as desired.

6. Serving: Once the chicken thighs are done, take them off the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Then, cut them into pieces on a wooden board. Serve them alongside the salad and tear the rustic bread to match the style of your rustic lunch.

Useful tips

- For an even more intense flavor: Marinating the chicken thighs the night before in olive oil, crushed garlic, and herbs will add extra flavor.
- Variations: You can replace the green salad with baby spinach or arugula for a different note. Also, add a few slices of avocado or feta cheese to enrich the salad.
- Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use chicken thighs with bones? Yes, bone-in thighs will have a richer flavor, but the cooking time will be longer.
- What drinks pair well with this lunch? A fresh lemonade or a light white wine will perfectly complement the meal.

Calories and nutritional benefits

This recipe offers approximately 450-500 calories per serving, depending on the amount of oil used and the size of the thighs. Chicken thighs are rich in protein and B vitamins, while the salad provides fiber, antioxidants, and essential vitamins.

Personal note

To add a touch of nostalgia and personality, I love to serve this rustic lunch alongside a seasonal fruit compote or an apple pie. These simple and delicious desserts perfectly complement a savory meal and will transport you to a world of pleasant memories.

So, get ready to enjoy a simple yet flavorful lunch that blends tradition with fresh flavors! Bon appétit!