Chicken breast stew with bell peppers

The bell pepper stew with chicken breast is a delicious and comforting dish, perfect for a family meal. This simple yet flavorful recipe combines the sweet taste of roasted peppers with the aroma of chicken and fresh vegetables. It offers not only a feast for the taste buds but also an opportunity to connect with culinary traditions that have been passed down through generations. Let's begin our culinary journey!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 large chicken breast (approximately 500g)
- 1 kg of bell peppers (preferably a combination of red and green peppers for a vibrant appearance)
- 1/2 kg of tomatoes (fresh or canned, depending on the season)
- 4 large onions (preferably white onion for a sweeter taste)
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil or sunflower oil
- 1 cup of water (approximately 250 ml)
- Salt and pepper to taste

Preparing the peppers:
1. Start by washing the peppers thoroughly under cold running water. Then, roast them on a hot plate or grill, turning them occasionally to cook evenly on all sides. Roasting the peppers will give them an intense flavor and a sweet taste that will elevate the stew into a delicacy.
2. Once the peppers are well roasted and the skin begins to peel, transfer them to a deep bowl. Sprinkle a little salt over them and cover with a lid. This method will help steam the peppers and make peeling easier.
3. After they have cooled enough, peel off the skin, remove the seeds, and cut them into suitable cubes.

Preparing the vegetables:
4. Wash the tomatoes and peel them. If desired, you can use a special vegetable peeler or dip the tomatoes in hot water for 30 seconds to facilitate this step. Cut them into cubes.
5. Chop the onions finely and sauté them in hot oil until they become translucent. This will add a wonderful base flavor to your stew.

Preparing the stew:
6. Once the onion has softened, add the chopped tomatoes and the cup of water. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer over medium heat for 10-15 minutes until the tomatoes turn into a delicious sauce.
7. Now, add the roasted peppers along with the juices they released. Let everything simmer for 10 minutes for the flavors to blend perfectly.
8. Finally, cut the chicken breast into cubes and add it to the pot. Let it sauté together with the vegetables for 15-20 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serving:
9. Serve the bell pepper stew with chicken breast hot, alongside a generous serving of polenta. The polenta will absorb the savory sauce and turn each bite into an unforgettable experience.

Practical tips:
- You can also add other vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini, to enrich the texture and nutrition of the dish.
- If you prefer a vegan version, you can replace the chicken breast with tofu or mushrooms.
- For an extra flavor boost, add fresh herbs like parsley or basil before serving.

Nutritional benefits:
This stew is rich in vitamins and minerals due to the fresh vegetables. Bell peppers are an excellent source of vitamin C, while chicken breast provides quality protein. It is a balanced and hearty meal, perfect for a family dinner.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use canned peppers?
Yes, you can use canned peppers, but the taste will be different. Fresh peppers provide a more intense flavor.
2. Can I prepare this stew in advance?
Yes, the bell pepper stew can be made a day ahead and is even tastier the next day when the flavors have intensified.
3. What type of wine pairs well with this dish?
A dry white wine or a light red wine are excellent options to accompany this stew.

You can also try serving the bell pepper stew with a fresh green salad or a cabbage salad to add a crunchy contrast. This bell pepper stew recipe with chicken breast will surely become a favorite in your home, not only for its delicious taste but also for its simple preparation. Enjoy your meal!