Chicken thighs with pasta

Delicious Chicken Thighs with Pasta and Vegetable Sauce Recipe

I propose a recipe that combines a classic ingredient, chicken thighs, with a vibrant vegetable sauce and delicious pasta. This recipe is not only satisfying but also quick, perfect for a family dinner or to impress friends. I will guide you step by step, with details about ingredients and tricks that will ensure a perfect result.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 35 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 300 g pasta (preferably penne or fusilli)
- 1 medium white onion
- 2 green onions
- 3-4 fresh mushrooms
- 2 ripe tomatoes
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 1 chili pepper (optional)
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 green bell pepper
- 4 tablespoons of tomato juice
- Spices: salt to taste, dried basil, a pinch of pepper

Nutritional Information
This recipe is rich in protein due to the chicken thighs and provides essential vitamins from the vegetables. The pasta adds complex carbohydrates, which give us energy. By adding olive oil, you also get healthy fatty acids that contribute to a balanced diet. One serving contains approximately 650 calories.

A Brief History of the Recipe
Chicken thighs with pasta represent a classic combination found in many culinary cultures. This recipe has evolved over time, being adapted to local ingredients and culinary preferences. Essentially, it is a comfort food that evokes pleasant memories of family lunches or relaxing dinners.

Preparation Technique
1. Preparing the Chicken Thighs
- Start by heating a large pan with oil. Make sure the oil is hot enough so that the thighs fry evenly. Add the 4 chicken thighs and fry them over medium heat until golden and crispy, about 10-12 minutes on each side. Use a spatula to turn them gently to avoid sticking.
- Once the thighs are cooked, remove them to a platter and set aside.

2. Boiling the Pasta
- In a large pot, add 1-2 liters of water with a little salt and bring to a boil. When the water starts boiling, add the pasta. Boil according to the package instructions, usually about 20 minutes, until al dente.
- After boiling, drain the pasta and rinse quickly under cold running water to prevent sticking, then toss with 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil to keep them juicy.

3. Preparing the Vegetable Sauce
- In the same pan where you fried the thighs, add a little olive oil and sauté the finely chopped white onion until translucent. Then add the sliced green onions and mushrooms.
- After the vegetables have softened, add the crushed garlic, diced tomatoes, and sliced bell peppers. If you like a bit of spice, you can also add the chili pepper. Season with salt, pepper, and dried basil. Let it simmer on low heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Assembling the Dish
- Once the sauce is ready, combine the chicken thighs with the vegetable sauce. Allow everything to heat together for a few minutes so the flavors meld perfectly.
- Serve the pasta on plates, add the chicken sauce on top, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or tarragon for an extra touch of freshness.

Useful Tip
To intensify the flavor, you can add a few drops of balsamic vinegar or white wine to the vegetable sauce. This will bring a note of acidity that balances the taste of the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use other types of meat? Absolutely! This recipe works wonderfully with beef or turkey as well.
- What pasta is most suitable? Short pasta, such as penne or fusilli, is ideal, but you can also use spaghetti or tagliatelle.
- How can I make the recipe vegetarian? You can replace the chicken thighs with tofu or seitan and use additional vegetables for a richer sauce.

Serving Suggestions
This recipe pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or a crusty baguette to accompany the meal. A bottle of white wine or a refreshing cocktail completes the culinary experience.

Possible Variations
- Adding cheese: You can sprinkle grated parmesan or mozzarella on top for extra flavor.
- Adding vegetables: You can experiment with seasonal vegetables, such as zucchini or squash, to diversify the recipe.

In conclusion, chicken thighs with pasta and vegetable sauce are an excellent choice for a tasty and nutritious meal. With every bite, you will bring the natural flavors to life, and every step of the recipe will guide you to a delicious result. Enjoy your meal!