Chicken stew with mashed potatoes and cheese

Chicken stew with cheese mashed potatoes

Welcome to the world of flavors and delicious tastes! Today, I propose a comforting recipe, perfect for the evenings when you want to indulge in a warm and savory meal. Chicken stew with cheese mashed potatoes is not just a simple recipe, but a true culinary hug that will bring a smile to your face.

Total time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Recipe history:
Stews have a long tradition, being prepared for centuries in various forms around the world. They are often associated with family meals, made with simple yet flavorful ingredients. The chicken stew we will prepare today combines succulent meat with fresh vegetables and aromatic sauce, offering a true feast for the senses.

Ingredients:
- 2 chicken thighs and 2 wings (approximately 800 g)
- 1 large onion
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 yellow bell pepper
- 200 g cherry tomatoes
- A handful of fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 large potatoes (approximately 600 g)
- 50 g butter
- 100 g grated cheese
- 1 teaspoon Delikat (optional)
- 1-2 tablespoons of oil for frying

Step-by-step instructions:

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing the chicken well under cold running water. Then, chop the onion, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes. The onion should be finely chopped, while the bell peppers should be diced small for even cooking. The cherry tomatoes can be halved or left whole, depending on your preference.

Step 2: Frying the chicken
In a large skillet or deep pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs and wings, frying them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. This step is essential for sealing in the juiciness of the meat. Once the chicken is ready, remove it from the skillet and keep it warm.

Step 3: Cooking the vegetables
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and bell peppers. Sauté them for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and become translucent. The aroma of the vegetables will combine with that of the chicken, creating a delicious base for the stew.

Step 4: Adding the chicken and water
After the vegetables have sautéed, add the chicken back to the skillet. Pour in warm water until the meat is covered, then add salt, pepper, and Delikat (if using). Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop.

Step 5: Finishing the stew
After 20 minutes, add the cherry tomatoes and let it simmer for another 10-15 minutes without the lid to reduce the sauce. This will intensify the flavors and create a delicious sauce that will envelop the chicken and vegetables. Finally, add the chopped parsley, mix well, and turn off the heat.

Step 6: Preparing the mashed potatoes
Meanwhile, boil the peeled potatoes in salted water until soft (about 15-20 minutes). Drain them and, while still hot, mash them with the butter. Gradually add the grated cheese, mixing well until you achieve a creamy and smooth mash. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 7: Serving
For a beautiful presentation, place the mashed potatoes on a plate, then add a generous portion of chicken stew on top. For an extra touch of flavor, you can add a few fresh parsley leaves on top. I also recommend serving this dish alongside Bulgarian pickles to add a crunchy and tangy contrast.

Practical tips:
1. Free-range chicken offers a more intense and richer flavor, but you can also use store-bought chicken, depending on your preferences.
2. Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken to achieve a crispy crust.
3. The mashed potatoes can be customized with various cheeses, such as feta or parmesan, to give them a unique touch.
4. If you like spices, try adding a pinch of sweet or hot paprika to the stew sauce for a spicy flavor.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, this recipe can also be adapted with pork or beef, but the cooking time will vary.
2. What can I do with leftovers?
The chicken stew keeps excellently in the refrigerator and can be reheated the next day. It can also be used as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.
3. How can I make the mash lighter?
If you want a lighter mash, you can replace part of the butter with olive oil or Greek yogurt.

Nutritional benefits:
This chicken stew is an excellent source of protein, thanks to the chicken. The vegetables add essential vitamins and minerals, while the mashed potatoes provide complex carbohydrates for energy. The cheese adds a calcium boost, making it a nutritious option for the whole family.

Delicious pairings:
To complete the meal, I recommend serving the stew with a fresh vegetable salad or homemade bread. A refreshing drink, such as tomato juice or a dry white wine, will add an extra layer of flavor to the culinary experience.

Enjoy this comforting and delicious recipe that will not only warm your soul but also bring a touch of joy to every meal!

 Ingredients: 2 drumsticks and 2 wings of free-range chicken, 1 large onion, 1 red bell pepper, 1 yellow bell pepper, 200 g cherry tomatoes, fresh parsley, salt, pepper, 3 large potatoes, 50 g butter, 100 g Delaco cheese, 1 teaspoon Delikat, salt

 Tags:  vegetable stew chicken stew