Stuffed chicken thighs

Stuffed Chicken Thighs with Olives and Kaiser - A Tasty and Simple Recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40-50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4

The history of stuffed chicken thighs is enriched by culinary traditions that emphasize the use of fresh ingredients from gardens or local market stalls. This dish is often associated with family or friends' meals, making it an ideal choice for special occasions or a weekend dinner. The juicy and flavorful chicken thighs become even more delicious when filled with a combination of olives, kaiser, and basil, resulting in an explosion of flavors in every bite. Let's get started!

Ingredients

- 4 boneless chicken thighs
- 100 g pitted olives, coarsely chopped
- 100 g kaiser, thinly sliced
- A handful of fresh basil leaves
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 glass of red wine (or white, according to preference)
- 60 ml water
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil

Ingredient Details

- Chicken thighs: Choose fresh chicken thighs with skin and bone. These will help maintain the juiciness of the dish.
- Olives: Preferably use green or black pitted olives. They add a salty and slightly bitter taste that perfectly complements the chicken meat.
- Kaiser: Thin slices of kaiser bring a smoky and fatty note, contributing to a rich flavor.
- Basil: Choose fresh leaves for an intense aroma. Basil not only enhances the flavor but also provides nutritional benefits, being rich in antioxidants.

Preparation Technique

1. Preparing the thighs: Start by washing the chicken thighs under cold running water and drying them with a paper towel. With a sharp knife, open the thighs on one side to create a pocket for the filling.

2. Filling the thighs: In a bowl, mix the chopped olives, kaiser slices, and basil leaves. Add salt, pepper, and sweet paprika, mixing well. Using a spoon, fill each thigh with the prepared mixture, being careful not to overfill, so you can close the thigh.

3. Loading the thighs: Place each stuffed thigh in a heat-resistant dish (a cast-iron pot is ideal due to its ability to distribute heat evenly).

4. Adding liquids: Drizzle the thighs with olive oil, add the wine and water. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and a little paprika on top for extra flavor.

5. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Cover the dish with aluminum foil or a lid and place it in the oven for about 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and let the thighs brown for 10-20 minutes until they have a nice golden crust.

Serving

These stuffed thighs are delicious served alongside porcini mushrooms with sour cream, as I chose, but you can also opt for a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh salad. Offer a glass of white or red wine, depending on your preferences, to complete the meal.

Practical Tips

- Vegetarian option: You can replace the chicken with large mushrooms (for example, portobello mushrooms) for a delicious vegetarian option.
- Stronger flavor: If you like a stronger taste, add a few slices of cheese (mozzarella or feta) to the filling.
- Cook in advance: These stuffed thighs can be prepared ahead of time and baked when you're ready to serve the meal.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

This recipe is a good source of protein due to the chicken thighs, and olives and basil add antioxidants and healthy fats. One serving contains approximately 400-500 calories, depending on the amount of oil and kaiser used. It is a balanced dish, ideal for a hearty meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of meat? Yes, you can use turkey thighs or even pork, but the cooking time may vary.

2. Can it be frozen? Yes, these stuffed thighs can be frozen after cooking. Make sure to portion them and seal them well in plastic wrap.

3. How can I tell when they are cooked? The thighs are done when the juices run clear upon cutting, and the meat is well browned.

4. What side dishes are recommended? You can opt for roasted potatoes, rice, or sautéed vegetables. A fresh green salad will add a touch of freshness.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to put on your apron and get started on cooking these stuffed chicken thighs. I assure you that every bite will bring a smile to your face and your loved ones! Enjoy your meal!