Thighs in Bechamel sauce

Chicken Thighs in Bechamel Sauce

I invite you to discover a delicious and comforting recipe: chicken thighs in Bechamel sauce. This recipe is perfect for a family meal, offering a savory combination of flavors and textures. Your time in the kitchen will be worth every moment, and the result will surely impress anyone who sits at your table.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 1 kg chicken thighs (whole, cut in half)
- 100 g butter (for frying)
- 50 g flour (for the sauce)
- 250 ml milk (for the sauce)
- 500 g cooking cream
- 1 bunch chopped parsley (for garnish)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- 1 chicken bouillon cube (optional)
- 1 green onion (sliced)

A Brief History

Bechamel sauce, one of the most well-known basic sauces in international cuisine, has been appreciated over time for its creamy texture and versatility. Often used in sophisticated dishes, this sauce adds a touch of refinement to any meal. The chicken thighs, rich in flavor, become absolutely irresistible when dressed in this velvety sauce.

Preparing the Chicken Thighs

1. Cleaning the thighs: Start by washing the chicken thighs well under cold running water. Dry them with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.

2. Seasoning: Cut the thighs in half at the joint, and season them with salt and pepper to taste. This step is essential for adding extra flavor to the dish.

3. Frying the thighs: Heat 100 g of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter has melted and started to foam, add the chicken thighs. Let them fry for 5-7 minutes on each side, turning them occasionally until they are golden. Don’t rush; slow frying will help develop the flavors.

Preparing the Bechamel Sauce

4. The base of the sauce: In the same skillet (don’t forget to keep the frying residues, they will add wonderful flavor to the sauce), melt another 50 g of butter. Once the butter is melted, add 50 g of flour. Mix quickly with a whisk or spatula to avoid lumps. It’s important not to let the sauce color, so stir constantly for about 2 minutes.

5. Adding milk and cream: Slowly add 250 ml of milk, stirring continuously to achieve a smooth sauce. Then, add the cooking cream and continue to stir. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Combining the Ingredients

6. Finishing the dish: Once the sauce has boiled and thickened, remove the chicken thighs from the skillet and discard the frying residues. Pour the Bechamel sauce over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well coated. Add the sliced green onion for an extra touch of freshness.

7. Final simmer: Put the skillet back on the heat, cover with a lid, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally. The delicious thighs will soak up the flavors of the sauce, and the green onion will add a pleasant contrast.

8. Final seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning by adding salt, pepper, and, if desired, a bouillon cube for a more intense flavor.

Serving

9. Preparing for serving: Once the thighs are ready, turn off the heat and sprinkle the chopped parsley on top for a vibrant and fresh look.

10. Serving suggestion: These chicken thighs in Bechamel sauce pair perfectly with creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh vegetable salad. The rich flavors of the sauce combine wonderfully with the fluffy texture of the mash, while the salad adds a refreshing contrast.

Useful Tips

- Variations: If you want to add extra flavor, you can incorporate sautéed mushrooms into the Bechamel sauce or use different herbs such as basil or thyme for a different taste.

- Serving options: Try serving this dish alongside a side of basmati rice or steamed vegetables for a lighter meal.

- Storage: If you have leftover sauce, it can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days or frozen for later use.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other parts of the chicken? Of course! You can use chicken breast or wings, but the cooking time will be shorter for the breast.

2. Can I replace the cream? Yes, you can use Greek yogurt or a plant-based alternative for a lighter version.

3. What wine pairs well with this dish? A dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, will perfectly complement the rich flavors of the sauce.

4. How many calories does a serving have? A serving of chicken thighs in Bechamel sauce contains approximately 550-600 calories, depending on the ingredients used and the portion size.

Nutritional Benefits

Chicken thighs are an excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for building and repairing tissues. The Bechamel sauce, besides its delicious taste, also provides calcium from the milk and cream. When consumed alongside a fresh salad, this dish becomes a balanced meal rich in nutrients.

I encourage you to try this recipe for chicken thighs in Bechamel sauce and share the results with your loved ones. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special occasion, it will surely be a guaranteed success. Enjoy your meal!