Marinated chicken in yogurt with a side of spinach

Marinated Chicken in Yogurt with Spinach Side - An Explosion of Flavors!

Welcome to our kitchen, where delicious dishes and enticing aromas intertwine to create memorable moments! Today, I will present a recipe for marinated chicken in yogurt, which promises to turn any meal into a celebration of tastes. This dish is not only easy to make but also packed with nutrients, offering a perfect balance between protein and vegetables. Let's begin our culinary adventure!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Marination time: 24-30 hours
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total: 24-30 hours and 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

For the chicken:
- 2 chicken thighs
- 2 chicken wings
- 1 chicken breast
- 250-300 ml yogurt (or buttermilk)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon Berbere (a spice blend)

For the spinach side:
- 1 kg fresh spinach
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 250 ml milk
- Wild garlic (optional), sliced
- Chili flakes for garnish

Step by step:

1. Marinating the chicken:
Marination is the key to achieving juicy and flavorful chicken. Start by thoroughly cleaning the chicken meat. Cut the thighs in half and the breast into larger pieces. Rinse the meat under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.

In a large bowl, mix the yogurt, olive oil, salt, and Berbere. This mixture will transform the chicken into a true delicacy. Place the meat in the marinade, ensuring it is well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 24-30 hours. This step not only enhances the flavor but also tenderizes the meat due to the acidity in the yogurt.

2. Preparing the spinach side:
Once the chicken has marinated, it's time to focus on the side dish. Start by thoroughly cleaning the spinach, washing it in several waters to remove impurities. Bring a pot of water to a boil and blanch the spinach for 5-10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a colander to drain.

3. Preparing the spinach sauce:
In a pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until golden and fragrant. Add the Berbere and stir to release the flavors. Once the spinach is drained, chop it into larger pieces and add it to the pan, mixing well. Cover the pan with a lid and let it simmer for 5-10 minutes.

4. Preparing the Bechamel sauce:
In another pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add 1 tablespoon of flour and continuously whisk until the flour is fully dissolved. Gradually add the warm milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy. Finally, add the yogurt, mixing well, and let it simmer for a few moments.

5. Finalizing the dish:
Add the Bechamel sauce to the pan with spinach and mix well. Let it simmer for another 5-10 minutes so that the flavors combine harmoniously. At this point, if you have wild garlic, add it sliced and mix. This will add a touch of freshness to the dish.

6. Cooking the chicken:
Meanwhile, heat a grill pan and brush it with a little oil. Remove the chicken from the marinade, draining any excess, and fry on all sides until golden and crispy. Since larger pieces of meat may require more cooking time, transfer them to a heat-resistant dish and place them in a preheated oven at 200 degrees for 20 minutes.

7. Serving:
Once the chicken is cooked, serve it warm alongside the spinach side. Garnish with slices of wild garlic and chili flakes for an extra touch of color and flavor. This delicious combination is sure to impress any guest!

Helpful tips:
- Spices: If you don't have Berbere, you can substitute it with other spice blends like garam masala or curry. These will add flavor to the dish.
- Source of spinach: Choose fresh spinach, preferably from the market or garden, for maximum taste and nutrients. Frozen spinach is an alternative, but it will have a different texture.
- Variations: You can replace chicken with turkey or tofu for a vegetarian option.

Nutritional benefits:
This recipe is not only delicious but also healthy! Chicken is an excellent source of protein, and yogurt adds beneficial probiotics for digestion. Spinach is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, vitamin A, iron, and folic acid, making it a reliable ally for your health.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use Greek yogurt? Yes, Greek yogurt is an excellent option, providing a creamy texture and a more intense flavor.
- How long can I keep the marinated chicken? It is recommended not to exceed 30 hours of marination to avoid a too-soft texture of the meat.
- What side dishes can I use? This recipe pairs wonderfully with basmati rice or quinoa for a complete meal.

Serving suggestions:
This dish pairs perfectly with a glass of dry white wine or a refreshing lemonade to complement the rich flavors of the chicken. Don't forget to enjoy every bite and share the recipe with loved ones!

I hope you enjoyed this captivating recipe for marinated chicken in yogurt with spinach side! I invite you to try it and let yourself be carried away by its unmistakable flavors. Bon appétit!

 Ingredients: 2 chicken thighs, 2 wings, 1 chicken breast for marinade: 250-300 ml buttermilk or any yogurt you have in the fridge 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon Berbere (spice mix) for spinach garnish: 1 kg fresh spinach 1 c