Summer Chicken Stew

Chicken Stew with Vegetables - A Classic and Satisfying Recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

On a chilly day, there's nothing more comforting than a chicken stew with fresh vegetables. This recipe is not only a delicious combination of ingredients but also a great way to bring family and friends together at the table. Stews are part of the culinary tradition of many cultures, prepared with love and seasonal ingredients. I invite you to discover this simple and tasty recipe, which will surely become your favorite!

Ingredients
- 1 chicken (about 1.5 kg), cleaned and cut into pieces
- 500 g onion, finely chopped
- 500 g bell peppers (preferably in various colors), cut into large cubes
- 1 hot pepper, finely chopped (optional, for an extra kick)
- 1 kg tomatoes, ripe and diced (or alternatively, 250 g tomato paste)
- 100 ml sunflower or olive oil
- 3 potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes or quarters
- 1 bay leaf
- 3-4 garlic cloves, chopped
- 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance the acidity of the tomatoes)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs (parsley or dill), for garnish
- Polenta and pickles, for serving

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the chicken: Start by cleaning, washing, and cutting the chicken. Make sure all pieces are of similar size to cook evenly. This step is essential for achieving tender and juicy meat.

2. Heating the oil: In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Choose a deep pot to add all the ingredients without spilling.

3. Sautéing the vegetables: Add the chicken to the hot oil and let it brown for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once the chicken has a golden color, add the chopped onion. The onion will add sweetness and flavor to the stew.

4. Adding the peppers: After a few minutes, when the onion becomes translucent, add the large cubed bell peppers. They will bring a crunchy texture and fresh flavor to the dish.

5. Tomatoes and spices: Once the peppers have softened a bit, add the diced tomatoes (or tomato paste if you choose that option). Add the bay leaf, chopped garlic, and a cup of water. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer on low heat to allow the flavors to blend.

6. Adding the potatoes: After the mixture has reduced a bit, add the cubed potatoes. They will absorb the flavors and add substance to the stew. Add a teaspoon of salt, sugar, and another cup of water. Stir gently and ensure the ingredients are well distributed.

7. Transferring to the oven: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Cover the pot with a lid or aluminum foil and transfer it to the oven. Let it bake for 30-35 minutes until the chicken is tender and the potatoes are well cooked.

8. Finishing the dish: After the cooking time has expired, remove the pot from the oven. Adjust the stew's taste by adding salt or pepper if necessary. Add the chopped fresh herbs and stir gently.

9. Serving: Serve the chicken stew hot, alongside steaming polenta and pickles. This combination will add a delicious contrast and a touch of freshness to your meal.

Tips and Practical Advice

- Tomatoes: If the tomatoes are very ripe and have a sweet taste, there is no need to add tomato paste. The natural flavor of fresh tomatoes is sufficient.
- Herbs: Add fresh herbs at the end to preserve their vibrant aroma.
- Variations: You can add carrots or zucchini to diversify the texture and taste of the stew. You can also replace the chicken with pork or beef, adjusting the cooking time according to the type of meat used.
- Frequently Asked Questions:
- What can I do with leftover stew? Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator to be consumed the next day, and the flavor will intensify. They can also be used as a filling for pies or wraps.
- How can I add spiciness? If you like spicy food, add more hot pepper or even a splash of chili sauce.

Nutritional Information

This chicken stew is rich in protein and fiber, thanks to the fresh vegetables. One serving contains approximately:
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Protein: 30 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 5 g

Conclusion

This chicken stew with vegetables is more than just a recipe; it is an invitation to the table, an opportunity to connect with loved ones and savor the flavors of a meal cooked with love. Try making it on the weekend or on a chilly evening and enjoy every bite! Bon appétit!

 Ingredients: 1 chicken 500g onion 500g bell pepper 1 hot pepper 1kg tomatoes 100ml oil 3 potatoes 1 bay leaf 3-4 cloves of garlic 1 teaspoon sugar salt pepper

 Tags:  summer chicken stew