Thighs with flavored pasta

Chicken Thighs with Aromatic Pasta: A Comforting and Flavorful Recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Introduction

The kitchen is a magical place where simple ingredients transform into extraordinary meals, full of flavor and taste. Chicken thighs with aromatic pasta are a perfect example of this process, combining the juicy texture of chicken with the rich flavors of the sauce and pasta. This recipe is ideal for a family dinner or to impress friends, being easy to prepare and extremely satisfying.

The story behind this recipe is one of comfort and tradition, inspired by Sunday meals when the family gathers around the table to enjoy delicious dishes. Chicken thighs, due to their high fat content, become extremely tender and flavorful after long baking, while the pasta is a perfect accompaniment, absorbing all the flavors of the sauce.

Your Ingredients

To achieve the best results, here’s what you will need:

- 4 chicken thighs (whole or cut in half, as preferred)
- 250 g pasta (spaghetti, penne, or any type you prefer)
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 400 g fresh tomatoes or tomato paste
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried tarragon
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley for garnish

Ingredient Tips

For the chicken thighs, choose high-quality meat, preferably from a trusted supplier. The chicken skin will add extra flavor and retain the juiciness of the meat. As for the pasta, you can experiment with various types, but whole grain is an excellent nutritional choice. Fresh tomatoes are ideal in season, but you can also use canned tomatoes to achieve a rich and tasty sauce.

Step-by-step Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken Thighs

Start by cleaning and washing the chicken thighs. If you prefer, you can leave the thighs whole or cut them in half for easier portioning. Generously season them with salt and pepper, ensuring that each piece is well coated. These simple spices will highlight the natural flavor of the chicken.

Step 2: Baking the Thighs

In a baking dish, add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil and a little water to cover the bottom of the dish. Place the chicken thighs skin side up and cover the dish with aluminum foil. Put the dish in the preheated oven at 180°C and let the thighs bake for about 2 hours. Every 30 minutes, check the water level in the dish and add a glass of water if necessary. This step will help maintain the juiciness of the meat.

Step 3: Preparing the Sauce

While the thighs are in the oven, you can prepare the sauce. In a pan, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and sauté the finely chopped onion and crushed garlic. Sauté them over medium heat until they become translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Then, add a large glass of water, the spices, and the grated tomatoes (or tomato paste). Let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens. Before removing it from heat, don’t forget to sprinkle chopped fresh parsley for added flavor.

Step 4: Cooking the Pasta

In a large pot, bring 2 liters of water to a boil and add a little salt. When the water has started to boil, add the pasta and let it cook according to the package instructions, usually about 10-12 minutes. When ready, drain well and rinse quickly under cold running water to stop the cooking process. Toss the pasta with 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil and the dried tarragon to flavor it.

Step 5: Assembling the Dish

Once the chicken thighs are ready and the sauce has been prepared, remove the dish from the oven. Place the pasta on plates, add the chicken thighs on top, and generously pour the sauce over. Garnish with fresh parsley for an appetizing appearance.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is delicious served warm, alongside a fresh green salad or grilled vegetables. A bottle of dry white wine can perfectly complement the meal, adding a touch of elegance.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of meat instead of chicken?
Yes, you can replace the chicken thighs with pork or turkey, but the baking time may change.

2. How can I make the sauce spicier?
Add a little chili pepper or chili flakes during the sauce cooking for an extra kick.

3. What other pasta can I use?
You can use whole grain, rice, or gluten-free pasta, depending on your preferences.

Nutritional Benefits

Chicken thighs are an excellent source of protein, essential for maintaining muscle health. They also contain B vitamins, which aid in energy metabolism. Pasta provides carbohydrates, essential for energy, while tomatoes are rich in antioxidants and vitamins.

Calories

This recipe contains approximately 600-700 calories per serving, depending on the amount of oil and the type of pasta used.

Possible Variations

For a vegetarian version, you can replace the meat with roasted vegetables, such as zucchini or eggplant, and use a soy sauce and mushroom-based sauce. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as basil or oregano, depending on your preferences.

This recipe for chicken thighs with aromatic pasta is not only delicious but also very versatile. Try it today and enjoy its delightful flavors! Enjoy your meal!