Matty's chicken dinner is comforting and rustic, simmered in a rich tomato, olive and herb sauce, then served alongside roasted baby potatoes.
Method
Based on 4 servings, adjust as needed.
Step 1
Cut the potatoes in half and place into a pan of cold salted water and bring to the boil. Cook for 10-12 mins until tender, then drain and set aside in a colander to steam-dry.
Step 2
Heat a casserole dish or large frying pan over a medium-high heat and drizzle in half the oil. Season the chicken thighs all over and add to the pan, skin side down. Cook for 5-8 mins, until golden, then flip and cook until the other side is golden. Remove to a plate and set aside. Reduce the heat to medium, stir in the onions, celery and carrots and cook for 6-8 mins, until beginning to soften.
Step 3
Meanwhile, heat the oven to 220C/200C fan/gas 7. Tip the potatoes onto a baking tray and drizzle over the remaining oil. Season well and toss to combine. Roast for 40-45 mins, until golden and crisp all over, shuffling the potatoes in the tray occasionally.
Step 4
Meanwhile, add the peppers and garlic to the pan containing the onions, celery and carrots, and cook for 1-2 mins, then stir in the tomato purée and cook for a further minute. Increase the heat and pour in the wine. Let it bubble away for 2 min, then mix in the chopped tomatoes and stock cube. Return the chicken thighs to the pan along with the olives, dried oregano and rosemary springs. Bring to a boil, season well and place the casserole pan into the oven to join the potatoes. Cook for 35-40 minutes until the sauce is reduced and the chicken is cooked through and tender. Serve with the parsley sprinkled over the top and the potatoes on the side.