Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs with Vegetables

Chicken thighs are a versatile and delicious ingredient, perfect for a family meal or a dinner with friends. We start by cleaning the thighs, making sure to wash them well under a stream of cold water, then we let them drain on a clean napkin to remove excess water. This will help achieve a crispy texture at the end of cooking.

While the thighs are draining, we take care of the vegetables. We peel the onions, carrots, and bell peppers, removing the cores and unnecessary parts. The onion is sliced thinly, which can be done with both white and red onions for a contrast of colors and flavors. The carrots are cut into rounds, not too thick, so they cook evenly. The bell pepper is cut into strips, and the tomatoes into slices, adding a touch of freshness and juiciness to the dish.

In a baking dish, we pour the oil, making sure to coat the bottom of the dish well. We layer the vegetables, starting with the white onion, followed by the red onion, carrots, bell pepper, and finally, the tomato slices. This arrangement will not only ensure a beautiful presentation but also allow the flavors to combine harmoniously during cooking. We sprinkle salt, pepper, and oregano over the vegetables to give them a pleasant and balanced taste.

Now, over the arranged vegetables, we place the chicken thighs, seasoning them again with salt, pepper, and oregano, ensuring each piece is well covered with spices. We add 50 ml of water to the dish, which will help create a flavorful sauce during baking. We cover the dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture and allow the thighs to cook evenly.

We preheat the oven to a low temperature and place the dish inside, letting it cook for 45 minutes. During this time, the flavors will meld, and the meat will become tender. After 45 minutes, we remove the dish from the oven, take off the foil, and let the dish stay in the oven for another 15 minutes to achieve a lightly golden and crispy crust on the thighs.

Once the dish is ready, we can serve it warm, alongside a portion of fluffy polenta or, if we prefer, plain, without a side dish. This recipe is not only tasty but also comforting, bringing a touch of tradition to every meal. Moreover, it is perfect for enjoying with loved ones, turning a simple dinner into a memorable experience. Bon appétit!

 Ingredients: 3 whole chicken thighs, 1 white onion, 1 red onion, 2 carrots, 2 red bell peppers, 2 tomatoes, pepper, salt, oregano, 20 ml of oil

 Tags:  onion chicken meat carrots tomatoes pepper oil gluten-free recipes lactose-free recipes