Bubbie Jennie’s Classic Roasted Chicken Thighs: A Homage to Tradition and Love
In the world of cooking, some recipes are treasured not just for their taste but for the cherished memories they hold. For me, one of these recipes is my bubbie's classic Shabbat and holiday roasted chicken. Bubbie, my beloved grandmother, had a knack for creating magic in the kitchen, and her roasted chicken was a masterpiece that never tasted quite the same way twice. Today, I'm sharing this recipe, not just as a culinary delight but as an homage to all the beautiful moments I spent with my bubbie in the kitchen. The love and wisdom she infused into every dish continue to nourish my gut and soul. So, let's embark on a journey down memory lane and into the heart of this classic dish.
Ingredients
4 bone-in chicken thighs (organic or kosher)
1 small onion, diced
Sauce:
2 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp paprika (plus extra for sprinkling)
1 tsp garlic granules
1/2 tsp thyme or rosemary
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp maple syrup
Salt & pepper to taste (I prefer a generous sprinkling of salt)
1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional but delightful)
Directions:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Arrange the Chicken
Place the bone-in chicken thighs in a square Pyrex dish.
Step 3: Add Onions for Depth
Sprinkle diced onions around the chicken for added flavor and depth.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, paprika, garlic granules, thyme (or rosemary), Dijon mustard, maple syrup, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce (if using).
Step 5: Coat the Chicken with the Sauce
Pour the sauce over the chicken and onions, ensuring thorough coating by using your hands to distribute it evenly.
Step 6: Enhance with Paprika
Sprinkle a bit more paprika over the exposed chicken thighs for an extra layer of flavor.
Step 7: Cover and Roast
Cover the dish with aluminum foil or a lid if available, and roast in the oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Step 8: Uncover and Finish
After the initial roasting, uncover the dish and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes. This step crisps up the chicken skin while keeping the meat tender.
In the world of cooking, some recipes are more than just a list of ingredients and steps. They are a link to our past, a celebration of love, and a way to connect with those who have left a lasting legacy in our hearts. My Bubbie's classic roasted chicken embodies all of this and more. As I create this dish in my own kitchen, I can almost hear her singing and feel her presence, guiding my hands. I hope you find as much joy in making and savoring this dish as I do. It's more than just a recipe; it's a testament to the enduring power of tradition and love.
