Tuscan chicken

Boneless chicken thighs stuffed with spinach and parsley

If you are looking for a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make recipe, these boneless chicken thighs stuffed with a vibrant spinach and parsley paste are just what you need! The flavors blend perfectly, and the final dish is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. This recipe is ideal for a family dinner or a special occasion, and the combination of ingredients will surely delight your taste buds.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 4 boneless chicken thighs
- A bunch of fresh green parsley
- A handful of fresh spinach leaves
- 2-3 cloves of garlic
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil
- A small glass of rosé wine (about 100 ml)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Salt-free dehydrated vegetables (a pinch)
- 3 bay leaves

Preparation:

1. Preparing the chicken thighs: Start by washing the chicken thighs well. After drying them with a paper towel, use a sharp knife to thin out the thicker parts of the meat. This will help with even and quick cooking. Season the thighs with salt, pepper, and a pinch of dehydrated vegetables to add extra flavor.

2. Preparing the filling: Boil the spinach leaves in a pot of salted water for about 5 minutes. This step will not only soften the spinach but also keep some of its vibrant color. After boiling, drain the spinach and quickly rinse it under cold water. This will stop the cooking process and help maintain the color.

3. Making the paste: In a blender, add the drained spinach along with the fresh parsley, peeled garlic, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, a pinch of salt, and half of the rosé wine. Blend everything until you get a smooth paste. Here you can adjust the flavors to your liking by adding more garlic or parsley, depending on your taste preference.

4. Stuffing the thighs: Use a spoon to evenly spread the spinach paste over each piece of chicken thigh. Make sure each piece is well covered, then carefully roll them up, ensuring the filling doesn’t spill out. Secure each roll with 2 bamboo skewers to maintain their shape during baking.

5. Baking: Place the rolls in a baking dish, side by side. Drizzle them with the remaining wine and add water, a pinch of salt, a tablespoon of olive oil, and the bay leaves. These flavors will combine during baking, providing an irresistible aroma. Cover the dish with aluminum foil for the first 20 minutes of baking, then remove it to allow the thighs to brown nicely. Bake at 180 degrees Celsius for 30 minutes, or until the meat turns golden.

6. Serving: Once the thighs are ready, remove them from the dish and carefully take out the skewers. You can serve the rolls warm alongside a side of rice or mashed potatoes and, of course, a fresh salad dressed lightly. This dish pairs wonderfully with a white wine or a refreshing rosé to complement the delicate flavors of the chicken.

Helpful tips:

- For a vegetarian version, you can replace the chicken with large mushrooms, such as portobello, stuffed with the same paste.
- If you want an even bolder flavor, you can add feta cheese or parmesan to the filling paste.
- Make sure to use quality olive oil, as it will influence the final flavor of the dish.

Nutritional benefits:

These stuffed chicken thighs with spinach and parsley are not only delicious but also rich in nutrients. Spinach is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron, while parsley adds a boost of antioxidants. Chicken meat, especially boneless, is a source of lean protein, essential for a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use bone-in chicken thighs? Yes, you can use bone-in chicken thighs, but the cooking time will be longer. Make sure to check the internal temperature of the meat.

2. What other herbs can I use in the filling? You can experiment with basil, thyme, or dill to add variation to the flavors.

3. How can I store leftovers? Remaining rolls can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or in a pan.

This recipe for boneless chicken thighs stuffed with spinach and parsley will not only delight your taste buds but will surely become a family favorite. Don’t hesitate to personalize it and add your own touches! Enjoy!