This Roasted Red Pepper Herb Chicken with Pomegranate Molasses is a vibrant, flavorful dish that brings together the smokiness of roasted red pepper paste, fresh herbs, and the tangy sweetness of pomegranate molasses. The crispy, golden chicken is perfectly complemented by the roasted potatoes and refreshing salad, making it a balanced and indulgent meal.
The combination of juicy chicken, crispy potatoes, and a light salad offers a refreshing contrast of textures and flavors. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion when you want to impress your guests with minimal effort but maximum flavor. The addition of fresh herbs and the smoky-sweet glaze truly makes this dish stand out.
Full Recipe:
- 7-8 bone-in chicken thighs
- 1 tbsp ghee
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp roasted red pepper paste
- 6-8 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp coriander (freshly ground)
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp fresh thyme
- 2 tbsp fresh dill
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Potatoes:
- 1 lb baby potatoes
- 1-2 tbsp avocado oil
- Salt to taste
For the Salad:
- 1/2 large cucumber
- 1/2 bunch green onion
- 1 tomato (beefsteak)
- 3-5 tbsp parsley
- 1-2 tbsp olive oil
- Pomegranate molasses (for drizzling)
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Salt to taste
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a small bowl, mix ghee, olive oil, roasted red pepper paste, garlic, coriander, paprika, thyme, dill, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
- Coat the chicken thighs with the marinade and let them sit for at least 15 minutes.
- For the potatoes, toss the baby potatoes with avocado oil and salt. Spread them on a baking sheet.
- Place the chicken thighs on a separate baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes. Flip the chicken and bake for another 25-30 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy.
- While the chicken and potatoes are roasting, prepare the salad. Dice the cucumber, tomato, and green onion. Combine them with parsley, olive oil, pomegranate molasses, lemon juice, and salt in a bowl.
- Serve the chicken thighs with roasted potatoes and the fresh salad on the side.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 1 hour | Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Kcal: 430 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Roasted Red Pepper & Herb Chicken with Pomegranate Molasses
This vibrant and flavorful dish, Roasted Red Pepper & Herb Chicken with Pomegranate Molasses, is an easy yet impressive meal that combines tender chicken thighs with a savory, smoky red pepper paste and a touch of sweet-tart pomegranate molasses. It’s a balanced and hearty dish that brings together juicy chicken, crispy roasted potatoes, and a fresh, tangy salad.
The magic of this recipe lies in the marinade, which features a blend of roasted red pepper paste, garlic, coriander, paprika, thyme, dill, parsley, and a splash of lemon juice. These ingredients create a fragrant and flavorful paste that seeps into the chicken, infusing it with bold flavors that become even more intense when roasted. The combination of ghee and olive oil ensures that the chicken remains moist and juicy on the inside, while the skin crisps up beautifully in the oven. The pomegranate molasses adds an unexpected yet delightful glaze that complements the savory notes of the chicken and enhances the overall dish.
A Perfectly Balanced Meal
Alongside the chicken, you’ll find crispy baby potatoes roasted in avocado oil, which offer a satisfying contrast in texture with their soft interiors and golden, crispy exteriors. The potatoes provide a hearty, starchy component to the meal, making it more filling and comforting.
To balance out the richness of the chicken and potatoes, a simple salad of crunchy cucumber, juicy tomato, and fresh green onions is tossed in a light dressing made from olive oil, pomegranate molasses, and lemon juice. The salad adds a burst of freshness, bringing the entire dish into harmony by cutting through the richness of the roasted chicken and potatoes. Together, the chicken, potatoes, and salad form a meal that’s both indulgent and refreshing.
Why This Dish Works So Well
This Roasted Red Pepper & Herb Chicken with Pomegranate Molasses is perfect for a variety of occasions, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a more elaborate family gathering. The beauty of this dish lies in how simple the preparation is despite the depth of flavor. Roasting the chicken at a high temperature ensures that the skin crisps up, locking in all the marinade’s flavors while giving it a golden finish. The pomegranate molasses adds a unique, slightly sweet contrast that makes the dish stand out.
What makes this recipe truly versatile is how easy it is to customize. If you don’t have access to pomegranate molasses, you can substitute it with a balsamic glaze or a honey-lemon mixture for a different but equally flavorful twist. The seasoning blend can also be adjusted to suit your taste preferences, with more paprika for heat or additional herbs like oregano for a Mediterranean flair.
Perfect Pairings
While this dish is already wonderfully balanced, it can be paired with a variety of side dishes to enhance its flavors. A side of quinoa or couscous can add some light, fluffy texture to the meal, while sautéed greens such as spinach or kale bring an extra dose of vitamins and minerals. A glass of chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, complements the richness of the chicken and the tanginess of the pomegranate molasses, creating an elevated dining experience.
This dish is also great for meal prepping, as the flavors only improve the next day, making it a convenient option for lunches throughout the week. You can prepare the chicken and potatoes ahead of time, and assemble the salad fresh just before serving to maintain its crispness.
Health Benefits of the Ingredients
This meal is not only delicious but also offers numerous health benefits. Chicken thighs are an excellent source of protein and contain healthy fats that are crucial for hormone production and brain health. The use of ghee and olive oil for roasting ensures that the chicken is cooked in healthy fats, which are beneficial for cardiovascular health.
The roasted red pepper paste not only adds flavor but also delivers a good dose of vitamin C, which is essential for immune function. Coriander, paprika, thyme, dill, and parsley are all herbs that offer anti-inflammatory properties and are rich in antioxidants, making this dish as nutritious as it is tasty.
The potatoes, a comforting and filling starch, are roasted in avocado oil, which is rich in healthy fats and is known for its heart-protective benefits. This combination of healthy fats, lean protein, and vegetables creates a meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Roasted Red Pepper & Herb Chicken with Pomegranate Molasses is a versatile and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed by everyone. It brings together the bold flavors of roasted red pepper, fragrant herbs, and the sweetness of pomegranate molasses, creating a unique culinary experience. Whether served as a family dinner or a special occasion meal, it is sure to impress with its layers of flavor and balance. The crispy chicken, golden potatoes, and refreshing salad make for a complete and satisfying meal that is easy to prepare and full of wholesome goodness.
This dish proves that cooking with simple ingredients can yield extraordinary results. It’s a perfect example of how the right combination of herbs, spices, and techniques can elevate a meal to something truly special.