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Ginger Garlic Chicken Thigh Bake

 


Ingredients

For the Marinade

  • 1 kg chicken thighs
  • 2 sprigs of rosemary
  • 5 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon minced ginger
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 4 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon tandoori masala (optional)

For Cooking

  • 1 red onion, chopped
  • ½ cup cilantro stems
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 heaped tablespoon minced ginger
  • 3 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 450 ml heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon curry powder
  • ½ tablespoon cumin
  • 2 bay leaves
  • ½ tablespoon smoked paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon chili flakes

Method

  1. Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the chicken thighs with all the marinade ingredients. Mix well, cover with cling film, and refrigerate for 24 hours. If you're short on time, a 6-hour marination will work, but the longer you marinate, the deeper the flavors.

  • Prep for Cooking
    The next day, remove the chicken from the fridge and let it reach room temperature. This step is crucial to avoid tough, dry chicken when searing.

  • Sear the Chicken
    Heat a pan and sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides. The chicken doesn’t need to cook through at this stage; it will finish cooking in the oven. Once browned, set the chicken aside.

  • Sauté Vegetables
    In the same pan, add the chopped onion, cilantro stems, garlic, and ginger. Sauté for a few minutes until softened and fragrant.

  • Add Tomato Paste and Spices
    Stir in the tomato paste and spices, along with a quarter cup of hot water (or stock). Cook on low heat for about 5 minutes, allowing the mixture to thicken into a rich red sauce. Be cautious with the water; you want a thick sauce, not a watery soup.

  • Incorporate Cream
    Add the heavy cream and bay leaves, mixing well. Let it simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes until thick and fragrant.

  • Finish the Dish
    Once the sauce is ready, add finely chopped cilantro leaves and turn off the heat.

  • Bake the Chicken
    Place the chicken in a casserole dish, pour the sauce over it, and cover with foil. Bake in a preheated oven at 170°C (340°F) for 40-45 minutes.

  • Serve
    Enjoy with your favorite starch and vegetables. This dish pairs beautifully with ginger cabbage and soft chapatis.

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