Chicken breast stew with mashed potatoes

Chicken breast stew with mashed potatoes is a classic, comforting dish that brings back family memories and moments spent together at the table. This delicious recipe is not only simple but also full of flavor, with a perfect blend of ingredients that complement each other. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself, this stew is the ideal choice.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 60 minutes
Total: 80 minutes
Servings: 8

Ingredients

For the stew:
- 2 kg chicken breast
- 3-4 large onions
- 3-4 bell peppers of different colors (red, yellow, green)
- 3-4 carrots
- 1 head of garlic
- 250 g tomato paste
- Oil (about 3-4 tablespoons)
- Salt (to taste)
- Spices (pepper, thyme, sweet paprika - optional)

For the mashed potatoes:
- 3 kg potatoes
- 250-300 g margarine
- Salt (to taste)
- 1 tablespoon of oil

Preparing the mashed potatoes

1. Cleaning and boiling the potatoes: Start by peeling the potatoes. It is important to choose quality potatoes that are firm and free of blemishes. After peeling, cut them into evenly sized cubes to ensure uniform boiling. Place the potatoes in a large pot, add cold water, a teaspoon of salt, and a tablespoon of oil. The oil will help achieve a creamier mash.

2. Boiling: Boil the potatoes over medium heat for about 20-25 minutes or until they can be easily pierced with a fork. Make sure not to overcook them, so they don’t become mushy and watery.

3. Preparing the mash: Once the potatoes are boiled, drain the water and add the margarine. Use a potato masher or a mixer to achieve a smooth and creamy mash. Add salt to taste and mix well.

Preparing the chicken stew

1. Preparing the meat: Remove the skin and fat from the chicken breast, then cut it into large cubes. This step is essential for a healthier stew without excess fat. Boil the chicken cubes in water with a little salt for 10-15 minutes. This process will eliminate fats and any toxins from the meat.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large skillet, add the oil and sauté the sliced onion over medium heat until it becomes translucent. Then, add the diced bell peppers, carrots, and crushed garlic. Sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes until they become slightly soft and fragrant.

3. Adding the meat: Once the vegetables are softened, add the boiled chicken cubes to the skillet. Mix well to combine the ingredients.

4. Adding the tomato paste: Pour the tomato paste over the mixture in the skillet, add enough water to cover all the ingredients, and season with salt, pepper, and any other preferred spices. Let it simmer on low heat for 10 minutes.

5. Baking: Transfer the stew mixture to a heat-resistant dish. Cover with a lid or aluminum foil and bake at 180 degrees Celsius for 50-60 minutes. This step will help intensify the flavors and make the meat tender.

Serving

Once the stew is ready, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve the stew hot alongside the mashed potatoes. An original idea would be to top it with some freshly chopped parsley for an extra touch of color and freshness. You can accompany this dish with pickles, which add a crunchy and tangy note, perfect for balancing the rich flavor of the stew.

Useful tips

- Variations of ingredients: You can experiment with other vegetables, such as zucchini or peas, to diversify the recipe. You can also replace the chicken breast with chicken thighs for a richer taste.
- Spices: Feel free to add spices you like. A combination of rosemary and oregano can bring a delicious Mediterranean flavor.
- Preparation in advance: You can prepare the stew a day in advance. The flavor will intensify, and the dish will be even better the next day.

Nutritional benefits

Chicken breast stew is an excellent source of protein, while the vegetables add essential vitamins and minerals. Mashed potatoes provide complex carbohydrates, which supply energy, making it a nourishing and satisfying meal.

Calories

A serving of stew with mashed potatoes contains approximately 450-550 calories, depending on the amount of margarine used and the portion of meat. It is a hearty meal that can be integrated into a balanced diet, especially when served with a fresh salad.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use another type of meat?
Yes, this recipe works well with pork or beef, but the cooking time will vary.

2. How can I make the mash creamier?
You can add sour cream or warm milk to the mashed potatoes for a richer texture and flavor.

3. What drinks pair well with this dish?
Fresh lemonade or a dry white wine are excellent choices to accompany this meal.

Chicken breast stew with mashed potatoes is a dish that not only nourishes but also brings joy. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: For 8 servings: 2 kg chicken breast, 3 kg potatoes, 3-4 onions, 1 head of garlic, 3-4 bell peppers of different colors, 3-4 carrots, 250g margarine, broth, oil, salt.