Welcome, fellow food enthusiasts! 🌟 Today, I’m delighted to share a recipe that will surely tantalize your taste buds – Chicken Vesuvio. Bursting with flavors and textures, this dish combines succulent chicken thighs, golden potatoes, and a medley of aromatic herbs, creating a symphony of deliciousness. So, who’s ready to embark on a culinary adventure with me? 🍽️💚 Raise your hand if you’re excited!
Ingredients:
Let’s gather our culinary companions for this delightful journey:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 chicken thighs with skin and bone (about 1.5 lb.)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 lb. potatoes, cut into chunks (I prefer small red skin potatoes)
- 4–5 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- ½ cup dry white wine
- ½ cup chicken stock
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- ½ tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon red crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2/3 cup fresh or thawed frozen peas
For serving:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Fresh lemon juice
Directions:
Let’s dive into the culinary magic! Follow these steps for a mouthwatering Chicken Vesuvio:
- Over medium-high heat, warm ¼ cup of olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet.
- Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then sear them in the skillet for 10-12 minutes until golden brown on all sides. Once done, set the chicken aside.
- In the same skillet, add potato chunks, seasoning with oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Cook until the potatoes achieve a golden brown perfection (about 10 minutes), stirring occasionally.
- Introduce the sliced garlic to the party and sauté for one minute.
- Incorporate salted butter, white wine, and chicken stock to deglaze the pan. Stir in the peas and let it simmer for 4-5 minutes.
- Reunite the seared chicken with the flavorful mix in the pan. Stir everything together, and then place the skillet in a preheated oven.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes at 375°F until the flavors meld into perfection.
Tips:
- Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or herbs.
- Adjust red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.
- Ensure chicken reaches a safe internal temperature.
Conclusion:
Voila! Your Chicken Vesuvio is ready to be served. Garnish with fresh parsley, and for an extra zing, drizzle with some fresh lemon juice. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is sure to win hearts at your dining table. Enjoy the symphony of flavors and happy cooking! 🎉🍗
- Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?
- Absolutely! While chicken thighs offer a richer flavor and tenderness, chicken breasts can be substituted. However, adjust cooking times as chicken breasts tend to cook faster and may dry out if overcooked.
- Can I use different potatoes for this recipe?
- Yes, you can! While the recipe suggests using small red skin potatoes, feel free to use your preferred variety such as Yukon Gold or Russet. Just ensure they are cut into chunks for even cooking.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- While Chicken Vesuvio is best served fresh from the oven to preserve its flavors and textures, you can prepare some components in advance. You can pre-cut the potatoes and garlic, and even marinate the chicken beforehand. However, it’s recommended to complete the final baking step just before serving for the best results.
- How can I adjust the seasoning to suit my taste preferences?
- Cooking is all about personal taste! If you prefer a spicier kick, feel free to increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes. Similarly, you can adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and herbs according to your liking. Remember, it’s always easier to add more seasoning later, so start with smaller amounts and taste as you go.