Chicken stew with onion
Chicken Stew with Onions - A Traditional Recipe Full of Flavor
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Who can resist a fragrant chicken stew with fresh vegetables and a delicious sauce? This chicken stew with onions recipe is not only a comforting meal but also an explosion of flavors that will delight your taste buds. The origins of this recipe are lost in the mists of time, being a staple dish in many cultures, often prepared on chilly days or to celebrate special moments with family. So, let's get to work and discover together how to make this wonderful dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces (about 1.5 kg, without breast)
- 3 large onions (~450 g), sliced thinly
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 can of tomatoes in their juice (about 400 g)
- 3-4 garlic cloves, crushed (to taste)
- Sunflower or olive oil, for frying
- Chicken spices (thyme, sweet paprika, oregano, etc.)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- A handful of fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Preparation Steps:
1. Preparing the chicken: Start by cutting the chicken into suitable pieces. You can use a whole chicken or choose your favorite pieces (thighs, wings, etc.). Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and your preferred spices. It is essential to let the chicken absorb the flavors for at least 15 minutes.
2. Frying the chicken: In a large skillet or pot, add the oil and let it heat over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces and fry them on both sides until golden and crispy (about 5-7 minutes on each side). Once fried, remove the chicken from the skillet and keep it warm, covering it with aluminum foil.
3. Preparing the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and sauté over medium heat, stirring frequently, until they become translucent. This step is crucial, as caramelized onions will add a natural sweetness to the stew. After the onions have softened, add the diced carrot and bell pepper, continuing to sauté the vegetables for another 5 minutes.
4. Adding the garlic: When the vegetables are almost done, add the crushed garlic and mix well. The garlic will release its enticing aroma, so do not leave it on the heat for too long to avoid bitterness.
5. Combining the ingredients: Put the chicken pieces back in the skillet, add the canned tomatoes (including the juice), and enough water to cover everything. Mix all the ingredients well, then bring the stew to a boil.
6. Boiling: Once the stew starts to boil, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid. Let it simmer for about 40-50 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should reduce and become more concentrated. During this time, the flavors will meld, and the meat will become tender.
7. Seasoning: After the stew has boiled, taste the sauce and season with salt, pepper, and other spices to your liking. Add the chopped parsley at the end for an extra touch of freshness.
Serving Suggestions:
The chicken stew with onions pairs perfectly with a side of mashed potatoes or polenta, but you can also opt for rice or pasta. Additionally, a slice of fresh bread is ideal for soaking up the rich sauce of the stew. For a pleasant contrast, you can serve it alongside a simple green salad with tomatoes and olives.
Calories and Nutritional Benefits:
A serving of chicken stew contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of oil used and the added ingredients. Chicken is an excellent source of protein, and the vegetables add a wealth of essential vitamins and minerals. This recipe is not only tasty but also nutritious, making it an ideal choice for a healthy meal.
Interesting Variations:
If you want to introduce a bit of variety, you can add mushrooms or zucchini to the vegetables. For a spicy note, you can include chili peppers or spices like chili powder. Additionally, for a richer sauce, you can add a tablespoon of tomato paste or a splash of white wine during the boiling process.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, the stew will have a different taste, but turkey is a healthy and delicious alternative.
2. Can I prepare the stew in advance?
Certainly! The chicken stew can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. The flavor intensifies over time.
3. How can I make the stew lighter?
You can reduce the amount of oil used and choose to use skinless chicken for a lighter version.
4. What can I do with the leftover sauce?
The leftover sauce can be used as a base for soups or pasta sauces. Don't throw it away!
Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to start cooking! Enjoy this chicken stew with onions, savoring every bite. Bon appétit!
Ingredients: 1 chicken without breast, 3 large onions (~450 g), 1 bell pepper, 1 carrot, 1 can of diced tomatoes, chicken spices, salt, pepper, garlic to taste
