Oven-baked chicken thighs with new potatoes

Chicken thighs with new potatoes in the oven: a delicious recipe for a perfect weekend

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Marinating time: 2-3 hours
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: approximately 3 hours
Number of servings: 4

Who doesn’t love a delicious lunch or dinner on the weekend that gathers the family around the table? This recipe for chicken thighs with new potatoes in the oven is not only simple but also full of flavors, making it perfect for those days when you want to indulge yourself. Combining the tender taste of chicken with crispy potatoes and the flavors of garlic and dill, this dish will surely become everyone’s favorite weekend roast.

A brief history

Oven-baked chicken recipes have always been a popular choice in many cultures, due to their versatility and ease of preparation. Chicken thighs, in particular, are appreciated for their juicy meat and rich flavor. Marinating in yogurt is a technique that enhances the meat's texture, making it more tender and flavorful. This method, combined with new potatoes, creates a balanced and comforting meal.

Ingredients

- 4 chicken thighs (whole or upper, skinless)
- 200 g natural yogurt
- 4 cloves of garlic (finely crushed)
- 1 bunch of fresh dill (chopped)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 800 g new potatoes
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 20 g margarine
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley (chopped)
- 200 g mushrooms (optional)

Steps to achieve a perfect result

1. Preparing the marinade: In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, crushed garlic, dill, and salt. Mix well until you obtain a smooth marinade. This will not only add flavor but also help tenderize the meat.

2. Preparing the chicken thighs: If the thighs have skin, carefully remove it. This will help reduce fat and allow the marinade to penetrate better. Place the thighs in the bowl with the marinade and ensure they are well coated. Let them marinate in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours. If you have time, let them sit overnight for an intense flavor.

3. Preparing the potatoes: Wash the new potatoes well and boil them in salted water for 10-15 minutes until they become slightly soft. Then, remove them from the water and let them cool slightly. Cut them in an accordion shape, being careful not to cut all the way through (leave the base intact). This will allow the flavors to penetrate better.

4. Seasoning the potatoes: In a bowl, mix the olive oil with the melted margarine and chopped parsley. Brush the cut potatoes with this mixture, making sure to get into the crevices to make them as flavorful as possible.

5. Preparing for the oven: Preheat the oven to 200°C. Place the chicken thighs on the oven rack, seasoning them with pepper and sweet paprika. In a baking tray, arrange the potatoes and, if desired, add a few whole mushrooms among them. These will absorb some of the meat juices and add extra flavor.

6. Baking: Put the tray with potatoes and the rack with chicken thighs in the oven. Bake for 45 minutes until the thighs are golden and crispy, and the potatoes are nicely browned.

7. Serving: Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve the chicken thighs alongside the flavorful potatoes, together with a fresh salad of cucumbers, tomatoes, and garlic. This will add a refreshing contrast and perfectly complement the meal.

Useful tips and tricks

- Marinating: If you are in a hurry, you can marinate the thighs for just one hour, but the longer you marinate, the better the flavors will be.
- Potatoes: You can experiment with different spices to flavor the olive oil. One option would be to add thyme or rosemary, which pair excellently with chicken.
- Vegetarian option: Replace the chicken thighs with large mushrooms stuffed with a vegetable and cheese mixture for a delicious vegetarian alternative.
- Sauces: A yogurt sauce with dill or a tomato-based sauce can be ideal to accompany this dish.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use skinless chicken?
Yes, but keep in mind that the result will be slightly different, as skinless meat tends to be less juicy.

2. What other side dishes can I add?
This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or a summer salad.

3. How can I tell if the thighs are cooked?
Check if the juices running from the meat are clear (not pink) and that the internal temperature of the meat has reached 75°C.

4. Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
The thighs can be marinated the night before, and the potatoes can be prepared and kept in the refrigerator until baking.

Nutritional values

This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious. Chicken thighs are an excellent source of protein, while new potatoes provide complex carbohydrates and fiber. Yogurt adds calcium, and garlic is known for its antioxidant properties. Thus, it is a balanced meal that will give you the energy you need for a full day.

In conclusion, the recipe for chicken thighs with new potatoes in the oven is an ideal choice for a weekend roast. With detailed steps and useful tips, we are sure you will achieve a tasty and flavorful dish, perfect for sharing with loved ones. Enjoy your meal!