Discover the juicy secret behind pesto chicken thighs
Chicken fillets are a popular choice for quick dinners, but it's worth trying other parts of the bird sometimes. Chicken thighs provide an underrated base for delicious, aromatic dishes. Simply rub them with pesto, pop them in the oven, and they’re ready! This method creates juicy meat that will delight the entire family.
27 November 2024 21:06
Chicken is one of the most versatile meats, but does it always need to be in fillet form? Thighs are an underrated part of poultry that offer surprising taste and juiciness when combined with aromatic pesto. They are incredibly easy to prepare, and the result rivals dishes from the best restaurants. Pesto chicken thighs are perfect for a weekday dinner or a special occasion. You only need a few ingredients and patience to make pesto chicken thighs a family favourite.
Recipe for chicken thighs with pesto
Ingredients:
- About 1 kg of chicken thighs,
- 140 g pesto (classic basil or any other),
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil,
- 1 clove of garlic,
- Salt and pepper to taste,
- Optional: lemon juice, fresh herbs for garnishing.
Classic basil pesto is just one option. You can experiment with different flavours. Tomato, spinach, or rocket pesto will introduce completely new notes to the dish. If you have the time, make the pesto yourself – that way, the taste will be even more distinct and natural.
Preparation:
- Wash and dry the thighs, press the garlic through a crusher, and mix the pesto with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the marinade over the meat and optionally drizzle with lemon juice.
- Place the thighs in an ovenproof dish, and let them rest in the refrigerator for at least an hour (or overnight for a more intense flavour).
- Preheat the oven to 190°C, bake for 45-50 minutes, occasionally basting the meat with the rendered sauce.
- Serve garnished with fresh herbs.
Why choose chicken thighs?
Chicken thighs are juicier and more aromatic than the popular fillets, making them excellent in recipes where flavour intensity is key. Thigh meat contains more fat, which ensures tenderness and a better structure after baking. Additionally, they are cheaper, making them an ideal choice for a family dinner that won’t strain the household budget.
What to serve with chicken thighs?
Chicken thighs with pesto can be served with a variety of sides to enhance their flavour. They pair perfectly with roasted vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, or courgettes, as well as light salads based on rocket and cherry tomatoes. Rice, bulgur, or pasta, which can soak up the flavourful baking sauce, are also great choices. If you prefer something simple, a crunchy baguette or focaccia will be ideal for soaking up the remaining sauce from the plate. Each of these sides will highlight the unique taste of the dish, creating a complete meal.
