The Golden Hen - stuffed thighs

Stuffed Chicken Thighs – A delicious recipe that will envelop you in flavors and nostalgia

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Servings: 2

Welcome to my kitchen! Today I will share with you a special recipe, full of flavor and history, that will transport you to warm and joyful memories. This is about stuffed chicken thighs, a dish that combines traditional tastes with a touch of originality. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or to impress your guests on a special occasion.

A brief history of the recipe

Stuffed chicken thighs are a dish that has spread over time across various cultures, each with its own variations. From fillings with vegetables and meat to more sophisticated combinations, this dish has always been a symbol of hospitality and the joy of sharing delicious meals with loved ones. In this version, we focus on a simple and tasty filling that will make every bite a true revelation.

Necessary ingredients

- 2 chicken thighs
- 1 can of mushrooms (about 200 g)
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon of breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
- 50 ml white wine (optional, but recommended)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 bunch of fresh dill (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 teaspoon grated carrot (for color)
- 100 g cheese (sliced)
- 3 large garlic cloves
- 2 bay leaves
- A few peppercorns

Preparation technique

1. Preparing the thighs: Start by washing the chicken thighs well under cold running water. Then, using a sharp knife, carefully debone the upper part of the thigh, leaving the bone and skin intact. This step will allow the filling to be well integrated and will give the dish a nice appearance.

2. Preparing the filling: In a pan, add one tablespoon of olive oil and two tablespoons of water. Add the finely chopped onion and let it sweat over low heat until it becomes transparent. This step will release the flavors of the onion and provide a tasty base for your filling.

3. Adding the mushrooms and carrot: Once the onion has softened, add the drained and finely chopped mushrooms and the grated carrot. Let the mixture cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt, pepper, sweet paprika, and rosemary to intensify the flavors.

4. Combining the ingredients: After the mushroom mixture has cooled slightly, add the beaten egg and breadcrumbs. The breadcrumbs will help bind the mixture, providing a pleasant texture. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous filling.

5. Filling the thighs: Using a spoon, start filling the thighs with the mushroom mixture, being careful not to overfill them. Place the slices of cheese on top of the filling and secure the thighs with toothpicks to keep the filling inside during baking.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 150 degrees Celsius. In a baking dish, add the two tablespoons of oil, a glass of water, the bay leaves, and the peppercorns. Place the stuffed thighs in the dish and cover them with aluminum foil to cook evenly. Bake for 40 minutes, checking occasionally.

7. Adding the wine and garlic: About 10 minutes before removing the thighs from the oven, remove the aluminum foil, drizzle them with white wine, and add the crushed garlic. This step will add a special flavor and make the dish even more aromatic.

8. Serving: Once the thighs are well browned and juicy, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. You can place them on a plate, with the bone side up, to form a cute "nest." Serve them alongside a creamy mashed potato, which will perfectly complement this savory dish.

Serving suggestions and variations

These stuffed chicken thighs are delicious and can be served alongside a fresh green salad or a garlic yogurt sauce. You can also try other fillings, such as spinach and feta cheese or a combination of minced meat with noodles or rice. Each variation will bring a unique twist to this classic recipe!

Nutritional information

This recipe offers a balanced meal, rich in protein from chicken, vitamins from vegetables, and minerals. Approximately 400-500 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients used and the portions of mashed potatoes served. Chicken thighs are also a good source of iron and B vitamins.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use other types of meat? Absolutely! This recipe can be adapted to turkey or even fish, depending on your preferences.
- Can I prepare the filling a day in advance? Sure! The filling can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator, which will save you time on cooking day.
- What type of wine is most suitable? A dry white wine is ideal, but you can opt for a light red wine, depending on your preferences.

I hope this recipe for stuffed chicken thighs will inspire you to create delicious moments with your loved ones! Cook with love and joy, because every meal is an opportunity to share love and happiness. Enjoy your meal!