German cuisine is often celebrated for its hearty and comforting dishes, ranging from rich sausages to delectable dumplings. However, the beauty of German cooking lies in its simplicity and the use of fresh ingredients. One such dish that embodies this philosophy is Scallion Chicken Thighs with Rice. This dish is not only easy to make, but it also delivers on flavor and satisfaction.
Ingredients
To prepare this dish, you will need the following ingredients:
4 chicken thighs (bonein, skinon for maximum flavor)
1 cup of rice (Basmati or longgrain works well)
2 cups of chicken broth
45 scallions (green onions), chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
2 tablespoons of olive oil
1 teaspoon of paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
A squeeze of lemon juice (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Preparation
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by ensuring that your chicken thighs are wellseasoned. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, paprika, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken thighs, making sure to get under the skin for maximum flavor. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have the time, marinating them longer (up to a few hours) in the refrigerator will further enhance the taste.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat some olive oil over mediumhigh heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken thighs skinside down. Sear the chicken for about 57 minutes on each side, or until the skin is golden and crispy. This step is crucial for locking in the flavors.
Step 3: Prepare the Rice
While the chicken is cooking, you can prepare the rice. In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Once boiling, add the rice, reduce the heat to low, and cover the pot. Allow it to simmer for about 1520 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and has absorbed the liquid. Fluff the rice with a fork once done.
Step 4: Combine and Cook
Once the chicken is browned, transfer it onto a plate and remove excess grease from the skillet, leaving about one tablespoon. Add the chopped scallions to the same skillet and sauté for 12 minutes until they soften. Return the chicken to the skillet, skinside up, and add a splash of broth or a few tablespoons of water to deglaze, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom. Cover and let it simmer for an additional 1015 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Step 5: Serve
To serve, plate a generous helping of fluffy rice, topped with the succulent scallion chicken thighs. Drizzle with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Conclusion
German Scallion Chicken Thighs with Rice is a dish that brings together flavor, simplicity, and comfort. This meal, with its harmonious blend of tender chicken, aromatic scallions, and perfectly cooked rice, is bound to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. It showcases how quality ingredients and straightforward techniques can lead to delicious results, reminding us that the best meals can often be the simplest. Bon Appétit!