Stewed chicken with zucchini stew

Braised chicken with zucchini stew – A delicious recipe for a comforting meal

The zucchini season is the perfect time to explore the flavors and textures offered by these versatile vegetables. Braised chicken with zucchini stew is a simple and tasty recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. This recipe is not only hearty but also packed with nutrients, providing a balanced meal for the whole family.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

- 2-3 zucchinis (about 1 kg)
- 1 whole chicken (850g-1 kg)
- 1 medium leek
- 1 onion
- 2 large carrots and 1 root vegetable (can be parsley, celery, or parsnip)
- 2-3 ripe tomatoes
- 1 bunch of herbs (dill and parsley)
- 4 tablespoons of oil (or butter, about the size of a walnut)
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- 4 tablespoons of base for dishes (or concentrated soup)
- Salt, pepper, thyme, marjoram, and 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 3-4 cloves of garlic (or garlic powder, to taste)

Step-by-step preparation

1. Boiling the chicken: Start by washing the chicken well under cold running water. Place it in a large pot with 3 liters of cold water and add a little salt, the peeled carrot, and onion. Turn the heat to low and let it simmer for 30 minutes. This step will ensure tender and juicy meat.

2. Preparing the vegetables: While the chicken is boiling, clean and finely chop the leek and the remaining carrot. The zucchinis should be peeled and cut into larger pieces to maintain their texture during cooking.

3. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pan, add the oil or butter and heat it over medium heat. Add the leek, carrot, and zucchini and sauté for 5-6 minutes until they start to release their juices. This step will enhance the flavors.

4. Adding the broth: Once the vegetables have started to soften, add 3-4 ladles of the broth in which the chicken is boiling. This will help create a flavorful base for the stew. Let everything simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes.

5. Seasoning: Add 2 tablespoons of the base for dishes over the zucchinis and 2 tablespoons over the chicken. These will add depth and flavor to the recipe.

6. Preparing the tomatoes: In the meantime, peel the tomatoes (a simple trick is to blanch them for a few seconds in hot water) and cut them into large cubes. Add them to the pan along with the chopped herbs. Let it simmer for 10 minutes until the sauce slightly reduces.

7. Thickening the sauce: Mix 2 tablespoons of flour with a little broth from the chicken until you obtain a smooth paste. Add this mixture to the pan and stir well to avoid lumps. Season with salt, pepper, and sliced or powdered garlic, to taste. Cook for a few more minutes to thicken the sauce.

8. Serving: On plates, place a piece of braised chicken, sprinkled with a little paprika for a touch of color. Add the zucchini stew alongside and, if desired, a side of rice cooked in the chicken broth, which will absorb all the delicious flavors. Don’t forget to keep the remaining broth, which can be a perfect appetizer or a base for other soups.

Practical tips

- Choosing the chicken: Choose a quality chicken, preferably free-range, to get tastier and healthier meat.
- Zucchinis: When choosing zucchinis, look for firm ones without spots, and the skin should be shiny. They add a pleasant texture and a sweet taste to the dish.
- Variations: You can experiment with other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to add variety. Additionally, substituting chicken with pork or turkey works wonderfully.
- Accompanying sauces: Serve with a fresh summer salad or a yogurt garlic sauce for a refreshing contrast.

Nutritional benefits

This recipe is rich in protein due to the chicken, and zucchinis are an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber, contributing to a healthy diet. This meal is balanced and low in calories, making it ideal for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use other types of meat? Yes, the chicken can be replaced with pork or turkey, but the cooking time may vary.
- How can I make the sauce spicier? You can add hot peppers or spices like chili for an extra kick.
- Is this recipe suitable for children? Yes, it is a healthy and tasty meal, but you can adjust the spices according to the preferences of the little ones.

In conclusion, braised chicken with zucchini stew is not only a simple recipe but also an opportunity to bring the flavors of the season to the table. Each bite will remind you of family meals, joy, and culinary traditions passed down from generation to generation. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: * 2-3 zucchinis (1 kg) * 1 chicken (850g-1 kg) * 1 leek * 1 onion * 2 carrots, 1 root vegetable (parsley, parsnip, a piece of celery) * 2-3 tomatoes * 1 bunch of herbs (dill + parsley) * 4 tablespoons oil/butter the size of a walnut * 2 tablespoons flour * 4 teaspoons base for dishes * salt, pepper, thyme, marjoram, 1 teaspoon paprika * 3-4 cloves of garlic or garlic powder to taste