peas with chicken

Delicious Chicken Pea Recipe - A Simple and Tasty Dish

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4

Chicken with peas is a classic recipe that combines the delicate flavors of chicken and the sweetness of peas, offering a comforting and flavorful dish. This recipe is perfect for days when you want to cook something quick yet delicious, and it pairs wonderfully with a side of rice or fresh bread.

Necessary ingredients:

- 500 g chicken breast (or boneless thighs)
- 300 g peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1 large onion
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or other vegetable oil)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 small potato (for thickening the sauce)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance the acidity)
- A bunch of fresh dill (for garnish)

Before you begin:

Make sure all the ingredients are prepared and within reach. I recommend using high-quality chicken, preferably from free-range birds, as this will add a special flavor to the dish. Also, if using frozen peas, there is no need to thaw them before cooking.

Step by step:

1. Wash and prepare the chicken: Start by washing the chicken breast well under cold running water, then let it drain. Cut it into cubes of about 3 cm to ensure even cooking.

2. Prepare the onion: Peel and finely chop the onion. This will add a deep and aromatic flavor to your dish.

3. Sauté the meat: In a large pot, add the two tablespoons of oil and heat over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the chicken cubes and sauté until they turn white on all sides (about 5-7 minutes). This step is essential to seal the juices of the meat and keep the chicken tender.

4. Add the onion: Once the chicken has turned white, add the chopped onion. Cover the pot with a lid and let the onion sweat for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes soft and translucent.

5. Incorporate the peas: Once the onion has softened, add the peas. If using fresh peas, make sure they are cleaned and well washed. Stir to combine the ingredients and let them cook together for 2-3 minutes.

6. Add water and spices: Pour in enough water to cover the ingredients (about 300-400 ml). Add salt, pepper, the bay leaf, and sugar. The latter will help balance the acidity of the tomato paste, which you will add later. Let everything simmer over medium heat for 15-20 minutes.

7. Incorporating the tomato paste: When the peas are almost cooked, add the tomato paste and the grated potato. The potato will help thicken the sauce and add a creamy texture. Stir well and let the dish cook for another 5-10 minutes, until the sauce has thickened and the peas are tender.

8. Finalizing the dish: Finally, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Add the finely chopped fresh dill and gently stir to combine the flavors.

Chef's tip: If you want to add a touch of flavor, you can sprinkle a little lemon juice before serving or add a few slices of chili pepper for an extra kick. You can also replace the dill with parsley or basil to slightly change the flavor profile.

Serving suggestions: Chicken with peas is served hot, alongside boiled rice or mashed potatoes. A fresh vegetable salad will perfectly complement the meal. You can accompany this dish with a glass of dry white wine or herbal tea for a pleasant contrast.

Nutritional benefits: This recipe is rich in protein due to the chicken, and peas are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It is a filling yet healthy dish, ideal for a family meal.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use canned peas? Yes, you can use canned peas, but add them in the last 5 minutes of cooking to prevent them from becoming too soft.

2. How can I adapt the recipe to be vegetarian? You can replace the chicken with tofu or mushrooms, and for an extra flavor boost, add spices like cumin or paprika.

3. Is this a good recipe for freezing? Yes, chicken with peas can be easily frozen. Make sure to cool it completely before storing it in airtight containers.

In conclusion, chicken with peas is a simple yet extremely satisfying dish that can quickly become one of your favorites. Prepare it with love and enjoy every bite! Bon appétit!