Roasted Paprika Lemon Chicken with Creamy Spinach Barley and Balsamic Mushrooms

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 220 °C / 425 °F. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and place them in a bowl.

2. 2

   Add 1 tablespoon olive oil, sweet paprika, dried oregano, 2 grated garlic cloves, lemon zest, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 3/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper to the chicken. Mix well to coat all the pieces.

3. 3

   Arrange the chicken in a baking tray or ovenproof dish in a single layer. Roast for 22 to 26 minutes at 220 °C / 425 °F, until golden and cooked through.

4. 4

   While the chicken roasts, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and 2 chopped garlic cloves, and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened.

5. 5

   Stir in the rinsed pearled barley and cook for 1 minute to coat it with the fat and deepen its flavor.

6. 6

   Pour in the chicken broth, add 1/4 teaspoon salt, and bring to a boil. Reduce to medium-low heat, partially cover, and cook for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the barley is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

7. 7

   Meanwhile, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and their moisture has cooked off.

8. 8

   Add the balsamic vinegar, the remaining 1 tablespoon lemon juice, the remaining 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and a pinch of salt to the mushrooms. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes more until glossy and well seasoned.

9. 9

   When the barley is ready, lower the heat and stir in the cooking cream or heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and fresh spinach. Stir until the spinach wilts and the mixture becomes creamy, about 2 minutes.

10. 10

    Taste the creamy barley and adjust the salt if needed. Divide the spinach barley among plates, top or serve alongside the roasted chicken, and finish with the balsamic mushrooms. Add a little extra Parmesan at the table if desired.