Chicken with lemon and potato meatballs

In a generous bowl, start by mixing the freshly chopped basil, 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, the freshly squeezed juice from 2 lemons, salt, and pepper to taste. This aromatic marinade will give a special flavor to the chicken thighs. Add the thighs to the bowl, ensuring they are well coated with the marinade, then cover with plastic wrap and let them sit in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This time will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat, making it juicy and full of taste.

After 30 minutes, preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. The marinated thighs have absorbed the flavor and are ready to be cooked. Place them in a baking dish, add 150 ml of water or vegetable broth to prevent the meat from drying out, then put them in the oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until they become golden and crispy. It is important to baste the meat occasionally with the sauce formed in the dish to ensure even browning and a juicy texture.

Meanwhile, let’s prepare the potato garnish. Peel the potatoes and boil them in salted water until they are soft but not completely, so they don’t fall apart. After boiling, remove them and grate them using a large grater. In a frying pan, add the remaining oil (3 tablespoons) and heat over medium heat. Add the grated potatoes, season with salt and pepper, and let them cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly to achieve an even texture.

Once the potatoes have developed a slight crust, use two spoons to portion the potato mixture and form the patties. I prefer to make them larger, but the size can vary according to preference. These patties are fried in the pan until they become golden and crispy on both sides. It is essential to turn them carefully to avoid breaking their shape.

In the end, we can serve the dish in several ways. A nice option is to place the chicken thighs in the center of a platter, with the potato patties around the edges. Decorate the plate with slices of lemon and fresh tomatoes for a contrast of colors and flavors. This dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it perfect for a festive meal or a family dinner. Enjoy every bite!

 Ingredients: 3 chicken thighs (chicken breast can also be used) 2 small lemons or one large 6 tablespoons olive oil 1 tablespoon finely chopped basil 1 small apple, sliced 700g potatoes salt, pepper

 Tags:  chicken meat potatoes oil olives fruits apples lemon gluten-free recipes lactose-free recipes meatballs