Stuffed thighs with mushrooms

Stuffed Chicken Thighs: A Simple and Delicious Recipe for a Memorable Meal

When it comes to dishes that combine flavor, simplicity, and a touch of elegance, stuffed chicken thighs are definitely an inspired choice. These succulent rolls, filled with a flavorful mixture of mushrooms, onion, and garlic, are perfect for a family dinner or a festive lunch with friends. Plus, they are easy to prepare, and the result will surely impress. So, let's discover this recipe together that will transform your meal into an unforgettable experience!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 4 large boneless chicken thighs
- 250 g fresh mushrooms (preferably champignon or oyster mushrooms)
- 1 small bunch of fresh dill
- 1 medium onion
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 1 egg
- Chicken seasoning (salt, pepper, paprika, herbs)
- Olive oil (for a richer taste, you can use coconut oil or butter)

Preparing the filling:
1. Start by cleaning the mushrooms. Chop them finely so they integrate perfectly into the filling. Mushrooms are nutrient-rich, high in plant protein, and low in calories, making them ideal for a healthy diet.
2. Clean the onion and garlic, then finely chop them. The onion will add a sweet flavor, while the garlic will provide an unmistakable aroma to the dish.
3. In a bowl, combine the mushrooms, onion, chopped garlic, and dill. Dill, with its fresh and slightly sweet aroma, will enhance the filling's flavor. Add a beaten egg and mix well to bind the ingredients.
4. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and, if desired, a little paprika for color and a touch of spiciness.

Preparing the chicken thighs:
1. Meanwhile, prepare the chicken thighs. Wash them well and dry them with a paper towel. This step is essential for achieving even browning.
2. Open each chicken thigh and season them with salt, pepper, and herbs on both sides. This will ensure that every bite is full of flavor.
3. On each piece of meat, place a spoonful of the previously prepared mushroom filling. Carefully roll the meat, ensuring that the filling remains well wrapped.
4. Tie each roll with kitchen twine to maintain its shape. If desired, you can also use toothpicks, but make sure to remove them before serving.

Marinating before baking:
1. Brush the rolls with a small amount of oil to help them brown during baking. Place them in a baking dish lined with parchment paper.
2. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and refrigerate the rolls for at least 30 minutes or ideally until the next day. This will allow the flavors to meld and penetrate the meat, resulting in a tastier dish.

Baking:
1. Preheat the oven to 200°C.
2. Remove the rolls from the refrigerator, remove the foil, and add a drizzle of oil on top of each thigh. This will help achieve a crispy and golden crust.
3. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30 minutes. After this time, check if the rolls are browned and cooked. If necessary, leave them for a few more minutes until they become perfectly golden.

Serving:
1. Once the thighs are ready, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute in the meat, making it more succulent.
2. Serve the rolls with a side of your choice, such as mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables. A fresh seasonal salad will perfectly complement this dish.

Useful tips:
- If you want to experiment with the filling, you can add feta or mozzarella cheese for a more intense flavor.
- The rolls can also be made with turkey or pork, depending on your preferences.
- You can add spices like oregano or thyme to vary the flavors.
- This dish is also ideal for preparing in advance; you can freeze them before baking and bake them directly from the freezer.

Nutritional information (per serving):
- Calories: approximately 350
- Protein: 30 g
- Fat: 18 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 2 g

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use canned mushrooms instead of fresh ones?
Yes, but fresh mushrooms offer superior flavor and texture. If you have no choice, make sure to drain the canned mushrooms well.
2. How long can I keep the rolls in the refrigerator before baking them?
Ideally, 24 hours, but you can keep them longer, although the flavor and texture may be affected.
3. What other side dishes pair well with this dish?
Besides mashed potatoes and vegetables, saffron rice or a quinoa salad are excellent choices.

These stuffed chicken thighs are not just a culinary delight but also an opportunity to enjoy moments spent with loved ones. Experiment with different ingredients and add a personal touch to your recipe. Enjoy your meal!