Chicken with ham and garlic
Chicken with Ham and Garlic - A Delicious and Comforting Recipe
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 90 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4
Today, I bring you a recipe that combines the intense flavors and pleasant sensations of a roasted chicken, wrapped in smoked ham and garlic. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a meal with friends, being easy to prepare and incredibly tasty.
The history of chicken with ham and garlic is rich in traditions. This combination of ingredients has been cherished for generations, often prepared for special occasions, but also on ordinary days when we want to indulge in a savory meal. The ham, with its smoky flavor, gives the chicken a unique taste, while the garlic adds a layer of complexity.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 chicken (approximately 1 kg)
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Approximately 180 g smoked ham
- 13 cherry tomatoes
- 2 red peppers (or others, depending on preferences)
- A few cloves of garlic
- 1 cup of water
- Olive oil, to taste
Step by step for a perfect chicken:
1. Preparing the chicken: Start by washing the chicken well under cold running water. Make sure to remove any feather remnants or impurities. Dry it with paper towels.
2. Scoring the chicken: Using a sharp knife, score the skin of the chicken in several places. These slits are ideal for inserting the ham and garlic, allowing the flavor to penetrate the meat better.
3. Filling the chicken: Cut the ham into thin slices and the garlic cloves into small pieces. Insert a slice of ham and a piece of garlic into each slit of the chicken. This will add an unmistakable flavor to your dish.
4. Preparing the mustard mayonnaise: In a small bowl, combine the mustard, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Mix well to obtain a smooth paste. This will be used to brush the chicken and give it a delicious crust during baking.
5. Brushing the chicken: Place the chicken in a baking dish. Use a brush to evenly coat the chicken with the mustard mixture. This step is essential for achieving a crispy and flavorful crust.
6. Adding the garnish: Cut the red peppers into strips and the cherry tomatoes in half. Arrange them around the chicken in the dish. These vegetables will roast alongside the chicken, providing a fresh taste and a splash of color to the dish.
7. Baking: Pour a cup of water into the dish to maintain moisture during baking. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven at 180°C (moderate heat) for about 90 minutes. It is important to check the chicken from time to time and, if necessary, baste it with the juices from the dish to keep it juicy.
8. Finishing: After the baking time has elapsed, remove the aluminum foil and let the chicken brown for another 10-15 minutes. This step will make the chicken skin crispy and golden.
9. Serving: Remove the dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before carving. You can serve this chicken with various sides, such as fries, rice, or pasta. A fresh vegetable salad would perfectly complement this meal.
Tips and variations:
- Tip for a more flavorful chicken: You can add herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, inside the chicken for extra flavor.
- Ham variations: If you don't have smoked ham on hand, you can use bacon or even smoked chicken for a different taste.
- Vegetarian alternative: If you are vegetarian, you can replace the chicken with large mushrooms stuffed with ham and garlic, cooked in the same way.
Nutritional benefits:
Chicken is an excellent source of protein, and garlic brings benefits for the immune system and has antioxidant properties. Together with fresh vegetables, this dish can be a healthy option for a balanced meal.
Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other types of meat?: Yes, this recipe can also be adapted for other types of meat, such as turkey or even pork.
- How do I store leftover chicken?: Leftover chicken can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. It can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
- What drinks pair well with this dish?: A dry white wine or a light red would perfectly complement the flavors of this dish.
I hope this recipe for chicken with ham and garlic inspires you to experiment in the kitchen. Cook with love and enjoy every bite!
Ingredients: 1/2 chicken approximately 1kg, 1 tablespoon mustard, salt, pepper, about 180g smoked ham, 13 cherry tomatoes, 2 red bell peppers... they were lost in the fridge, a few cloves of garlic.
