Stewed chicken steak with polenta

Braised chicken steak with polenta – a delicious recipe that combines the enticing flavors of chicken with the creamy texture of polenta. This classic Romanian dish is not only nourishing but also comforting, perfect for a family meal or to impress guests. Let's see how we can transform simple ingredients into something truly special!

Preparation time:
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 60 minutes
- Total time: 80 minutes
- Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 1.5 kg chicken (thighs, breast, wings)
- 60-70 ml oil
- 1 head of garlic
- 1 carrot
- 1-2 slices of bell pepper (preferably red)
- 2-3 sprigs of parsley
- Salt, pepper, curry
- Seasoning for steak (choose your favorite blend)
- 1 cube/teaspoon chicken/vegetable concentrate
- 1 liter water for polenta (optional)

Preparing the chicken steak:
1. Preparing the meat: Start by washing the chicken well under cold running water, then pat it dry with a paper towel. This step is essential for getting a juicy steak. Season the meat with salt, pepper, curry, and the steak spices. Let it marinate for 10 minutes.

2. Browning the meat: In a large pot, heat the oil over high heat. Add the chicken pieces and brown them on both sides until golden (about 5-7 minutes). This step is crucial for sealing in the juices, ensuring that the steak will be tender and full of flavor.

3. Add water and cover: Once the chicken is browned, pour 50-60 ml of water into the pot and reduce the heat to low. Cover with a lid and let the chicken braise. Check periodically and add a little water when it decreases, turning the meat on all sides to cook evenly. This process can take about 30-40 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken pieces.

4. Add the vegetables: While the chicken is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Slice the garlic thinly, cut the carrot into rounds, and slice the bell pepper into strips. Once the chicken is tender, add the garlic, carrot, and bell pepper to the pot. Continue cooking for another 10-15 minutes until the vegetables are tender and lightly browned.

Preparing the polenta:
1. Boil the water: In a separate pot, bring one liter of water to a boil. You can add salt to taste.

2. Add the cornmeal: When the water boils, gradually add the cornmeal, stirring constantly with a fork or whisk to avoid lumps. Continue stirring until the polenta thickens and becomes creamy (about 5-10 minutes).

3. Finalization: Once the polenta is ready, you can transfer it to a serving dish and let it cool slightly.

Serving:
On each plate, place a serving of chicken steak with sauce from the pot alongside a generous spoonful of polenta. You can garnish with fresh parsley leaves and pieces of carrot and pepper for an extra touch of color and texture.

Personal tip:
If you like a more intense flavor, you can add some extra spices, such as paprika or oregano. Also, for a richer polenta, you can replace some of the water with milk.

Nutritional information:
This recipe offers a balanced meal, considering that chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, while polenta is rich in complex carbohydrates. It is a hearty meal that provides energy throughout the day.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use another type of meat? Of course! This recipe also works well with pork or turkey, so feel free to experiment.
- What can I do with leftovers? Leftover chicken steak can be used in salads, sandwiches, or even in soups.

Recommended combinations:
Chicken steak with polenta pairs perfectly with a fresh summer salad or assorted pickles, which add a pleasant contrast of flavors. Additionally, a glass of white wine or fresh tomato juice will perfectly complement the meal.

I hope this recipe inspires you to prepare a delicious chicken steak that will bring a touch of warmth and joy to your life and that of your loved ones! Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 1.5 kg chicken (thighs, breast, wings) 60-70 ml oil 1 head of garlic 1 carrot a few slices of bell pepper 2-3 sprigs of parsley salt, pepper, curry, spices for roasting 1 cube/teaspoon chicken/vegetable concentrate