Chicken and Onion Stew

Onion Stew with Chicken

Discover the joy of cooking with this delicious onion stew recipe with chicken, a comforting dish that combines the intense flavors of onion and chicken meat. This dish comes with a rich story, having deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures, appreciated for its savory taste and simplicity in preparation. Ideal for a family dinner or a festive meal, this stew is sure to become a favorite.

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

Ingredients

- 2 chicken thighs (preferably bone-in for richer flavor)
- 4 medium onions
- 100 ml dry white wine (choose a quality one that you enjoy drinking)
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste (you can use fresh or canned tomato paste)
- 1 red bell pepper (for a touch of sweetness)
- 4 tablespoons of oil (olive oil or sunflower oil)
- 4 cloves of garlic (fresh, for a more intense flavor)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper (to taste)

Instructions

1. Preparing the meat
Start by washing the chicken thighs well and patting them dry with a paper towel. In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs and let them brown for about 5 minutes on each side. This step is essential to seal in the juices of the meat and achieve a tender texture.

2. Seasoning the meat
Once the thighs are browned, sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides. Add the dry white wine and cover the skillet with a lid. Let the meat simmer on low heat for 10 minutes. The wine will add a special flavor and help tenderize the meat.

3. Preparing the vegetables
Remove the chicken thighs from the skillet and set them aside. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion (not too finely so it holds up during cooking) and diced red bell pepper. Let the vegetables soften for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The onion will become sweet and aromatic, turning the dish into a true delicacy.

4. Adding the tomato paste
When the onion becomes translucent, add the tomato paste and mix well. Let everything simmer for 5 minutes so that the flavors combine and intensify.

5. Finishing the stew
Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, add the minced garlic, bay leaf, and a cup of water. Cover the skillet again and let the stew simmer on low heat for 25-30 minutes. This is when the meat will become extremely tender, and the sauce will thicken, providing a perfect consistency.

Serving

The onion stew with chicken is served hot, ideally alongside a portion of creamy polenta. The polenta absorbs the delicious sauce, turning each bite into a memorable culinary experience. You can also add freshly chopped parsley on top for an extra splash of color and flavor.

Practical Tips

- Choosing the meat: Bone-in chicken thighs are juicier than boneless ones. If you prefer chicken breast, adjust the cooking time, as it cooks faster.
- Variations: You can add additional vegetables, such as diced carrots or potatoes, to enrich the dish. You can also experiment with different types of wine, depending on your taste.
- Preserving the sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can let the stew simmer uncovered in the last few minutes of cooking to reduce the liquid.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

This onion stew with chicken is not only delicious but also nutritious. A serving (approximately 300 g) contains around 400-500 calories, depending on the type of meat and oil used. It is a good source of protein, vitamins (especially vitamin C from the onion and bell pepper), and minerals. Garlic has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, adding a health boost to the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I substitute the wine? Yes, if you prefer a non-alcoholic version, you can use grape juice or additional broth.
- What other recipes can it be paired with? This dish pairs very well with a fresh green salad or a side of rice.
- Can it be frozen? Yes, the stew can be frozen, and the taste will remain delicious even after thawing.

Onion stew with chicken is a simple recipe, yet full of flavors and stories. Whether you prepare it for a family dinner or to impress friends, this dish is sure to bring a smile to everyone’s faces. Enjoy your meal!