Chicken stew like mom used to make

Chicken stew like mom used to make

If there is a recipe that evokes pleasant childhood memories and the warmth of the family home, it is chicken stew. It is a simple yet deeply satisfying dish that reminds us of family meals, the enticing smells from the kitchen, and mom's hugs. This classic chicken stew recipe is easy to make and is based on accessible ingredients, transforming into a true celebration of flavor.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients

- 2 large chicken breasts (approx. 600g)
- 6 medium onions (for an intense and aromatic taste)
- 2 red bell peppers (for a sweet and crunchy note)
- 3 fresh tomatoes (or 3 tablespoons of tomato paste, preferably homemade)
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika (for a vibrant color)
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground pepper
- 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance the acidity of the tomatoes)
- 5 tablespoons oil (sunflower or olive oil works well)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (adds a touch of freshness)

Steps for preparation

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by cutting the chicken breast into cubes of about 2-3 cm, so they cook evenly. Chop the onion finely, and slice the bell pepper into thin strips. The tomatoes can be diced or blanched and peeled. If you prefer, you can use canned tomatoes or paste.

2. Heating the oil: In a large pot or deep pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Make sure the oil is well heated but not smoking. This step is crucial for achieving a rich-tasting stew.

3. Sautéing the onion: Add the chopped onion to the heated oil and let it sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step will release the flavors of the onion and create a delicious base for the stew. If desired, you can add 2-3 tablespoons of water to help the onion soften without burning.

4. Adding the vegetables: Once the onion is softened, add the sliced bell pepper and tomatoes. Mix well and let them cook together for 5 minutes, covering the pot with a lid. This will help the vegetables soften and release their juices.

5. Including the chicken: Add the chicken cubes to the pot, mixing well to coat them with the aromatic vegetables. Cover the pot for about 5 minutes, allowing the chicken to seal in its juices.

6. Boiling the stew: After 5 minutes, add enough water to cover all the ingredients, but don’t overdo it. Then, let the stew simmer over medium heat for 40-45 minutes. Check occasionally and stir, ensuring the chicken doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot.

7. Seasoning: When the chicken is nearly cooked, add the tomato paste, salt, pepper, sugar, and sweet paprika. These spices will enhance the flavors of the stew. Taste and adjust the seasonings as desired.

8. Finishing the dish: Let the stew simmer on low heat until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce has reduced enough to achieve a thick consistency. Turning off the heat when the sauce is well concentrated will make the stew even more delicious.

9. Serving: Serve the chicken stew hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley. A perfect combination is with steaming polenta and hot peppers for those who enjoy a bit of spice.

Practical tips

- Fresh ingredients: Use fresh ingredients for the best results. Seasonal tomatoes will add a special flavor to your stew.
- Variations: You can also add diced carrots or potatoes to make the dish heartier and more nutritious.
- Enhancing flavors: If you like a more complex taste, you can add some herbs like thyme or bay leaf during boiling.
- Creative serving: Instead of polenta, you can serve the stew with rice or mashed potatoes.

Nutritional benefits

Chicken stew is an excellent source of protein, thanks to the chicken breast. Onions and tomatoes bring essential vitamins and antioxidants, while the bell pepper provides vitamin C. This dish is not only tasty but also healthy, with a moderate calorie content depending on the oil used and the chosen side dish.

Frequently asked questions

1. How can I make the stew spicier? You can add a finely chopped hot pepper or chili flakes during preparation.

2. What other side dishes pair well with chicken stew? Besides polenta, rice or mashed potatoes are excellent choices. Additionally, a fresh summer salad can perfectly complement the meal.

3. Can I use turkey instead of chicken? Yes, the stew can be made with turkey meat, and the taste will be just as delicious. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time, as turkey meat may require less time.

This chicken stew is not just a meal but a culinary experience that will remind you of the pleasant moments spent with loved ones. Whether you serve it at a family dinner or a meal with friends, each bite will be an explosion of flavors and warm feelings. So, embrace the tradition and enjoy this simple yet love-filled recipe!

 Ingredients: 2 large chicken breasts, 6 medium onions, 2 red bell peppers, 3 tomatoes, 1 teaspoon sweet paprika, salt to taste, pepper, 1 teaspoon sugar, parsley for garnish, 5 tablespoons oil, 3 tablespoons tomato paste (preferably homemade)

 Tags:  chicken stew