Chicken stew

Chicken stew with tomatoes and garlic – A heartfelt recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Who doesn’t love a warm, aromatic, and comforting dish that reminds you of family meals? Chicken stew with tomatoes and garlic is a classic, simple recipe, yet full of flavor, combining fresh and natural ingredients. This recipe has been passed down through generations, symbolizing conviviality at the table and the joy of cooking. Let’s embark on this culinary adventure together!

Ingredients

- 1 chicken breast (approximately 500 g)
- 4 bunches of green onions
- 2 bunches of garlic
- 6-7 fresh tomatoes or a can of diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
- A handful of fresh dill (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil (olive or sunflower)

Necessary utensils

- A deep frying pan or cooking pot
- A sharp knife
- A wooden spatula
- A plate to hold the meat
- A lid for the pan

Preparation steps

1. Preparing the meat: Start by washing the chicken breast under cold running water. Make sure to clean it well from any membranes or skin. Cut it into pieces of about 3 cm. This size will allow for even cooking and a tender texture.

2. Heating the oil: In a deep frying pan, add a few tablespoons of oil (about 3-4 tablespoons). Heat the oil over medium heat. It’s important not to use too high a heat, as you may burn the meat before it cooks through.

3. Cooking the meat: Add the chicken pieces to the pan, making sure not to overcrowd it. Stir constantly with a wooden spatula to ensure they brown evenly. The meat is ready when it changes color and becomes slightly golden (about 5-7 minutes). Once cooked, remove the meat onto a plate and cover it to keep warm.

4. Preparing the vegetables: In the same pan, add the chopped green onions in pieces of about 1 cm and finely chopped garlic. Sauté them for 2-3 minutes until they become translucent and the aromas are released. Fresh garlic will add a delicious note to the dish.

5. Adding the wet ingredients: After the onions and garlic have sautéed, add a cup of water, the diced tomatoes (or the can of tomatoes), and of course, the chicken back into the pan. Cover the pan and let everything simmer on low heat for about 20-30 minutes. This time will allow the flavors to meld and the meat to become tender.

6. Finishing the dish: Finally, add the tomato paste, salt, and pepper to taste. Let everything simmer on low heat for another 5-10 minutes, so that the sauce reduces a bit and becomes more concentrated. At this point, you can also add the chopped fresh dill for an extra touch of freshness.

Serving

The chicken stew is served hot, alongside a portion of polenta or rice, which will soak up the delicious sauce. A seasonal salad with fresh vegetables will perfectly complement the meal. And don’t forget, a slice of fresh bread is ideal for "mopping" up the sauce!

Useful tips

- Vegetarian option: You can replace the chicken with mushrooms or tofu for a delicious vegetarian version.
- Flavoring: Add spices like basil, oregano, or even chili peppers if you enjoy spicy food.
- Storage: The stew can be kept in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. In fact, the next day, the flavors become even more intense!

Nutritional benefits

This chicken stew is not only tasty but also nutritious. Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, while tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, especially lycopene, which contributes to heart health. Onions and garlic have anti-inflammatory properties and are beneficial for the immune system.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, this recipe can be adapted with pork or beef, but the cooking time will vary. Make sure the meat is well cooked for safety.

2. What other vegetables can I add?
Zucchini, carrots, or bell peppers are excellent for adding texture and extra nutrients.

3. Is this recipe suitable for children?
Yes, it is a mild and flavorful dish, perfect for serving to little ones. You can adjust the seasoning to their taste.

4. What drinks pair well with it?
A dry white wine or a fresh tomato juice are excellent choices to accompany this dish.

Conclusion

Chicken stew with tomatoes and garlic is more than just a recipe; it’s a way to bring people together, create memories, and celebrate the simple flavors of life. Don’t hesitate to put your personal touch on this recipe. Experiment with spices, add new ingredients, or simply savor every bite. I can’t wait to hear how yours turned out! Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 1 chicken breast, 4 bunches of green onions, 2 bunches of garlic, 6-7 tomatoes or a can, 1 tablespoon of tomato paste, dill, salt, pepper, oil

 Tags:  chicken stew