Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with a mouthwatering Southern classic that transforms ordinary chicken thighs into a culinary masterpiece! This Chicken Baked in Green Tomato recipe is not just a meal – it's a journey through rustic flavors that will transport you to a cozy Southern kitchen. Imagine tender, golden-brown chicken nestled on a bed of tangy green tomatoes, creating a dish so irresistible that it will become an instant family favorite. Get ready to impress your dinner guests and elevate your home cooking game with this simple yet extraordinary recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Chicken thighs
- Green tomatoes
- Onion
- Garlic
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the middle of the oven.
- Prepare the chicken thighs by patting them dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides.
- Slice the green tomatoes into medium-thick rounds, approximately 1/4 inch thick.
- Dice the onion into small, uniform pieces and mince the garlic cloves finely.
- In a large cast-iron skillet or baking dish, drizzle olive oil to coat the bottom evenly.
- Layer the sliced green tomatoes across the bottom of the skillet, creating a uniform base.
- Sprinkle the diced onions and minced garlic over the tomato layer.
- Carefully place the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the tomato and onion mixture, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Drizzle additional olive oil over the chicken thighs to help them brown and crisp during baking.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for approximately 50-60 minutes, or until the chicken skin is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
- Serve hot, spooning the roasted green tomatoes and pan juices over the chicken thighs.
Tips
- Choose the Right Tomatoes: Select firm, bright green tomatoes for the best texture and tangy flavor. Avoid overripe or soft green tomatoes.
- Pat the Chicken Dry: Ensure your chicken thighs are thoroughly patted dry before seasoning to achieve that perfect crispy skin.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Give your chicken thighs enough space in the skillet to ensure even cooking and crispy edges.
- Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe and perfectly cooked meat.
- Let It Rest: Allow the dish to rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking to let the juices redistribute, ensuring maximum flavor and moisture.
- Serve Immediately: The dish is best enjoyed hot, with the roasted green tomatoes and pan juices spooned over the chicken for maximum flavor impact.Pro Tip: For an extra flavor boost, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the dish before baking!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 145mg
