Chicken breast potato stew

Potato stew with chicken breast is a traditional recipe full of flavor, bringing together simple yet delicious ingredients to create a dish that warms you on cool days. This stew is not just a comforting meal but also an opportunity to explore various cooking techniques, from braising to boiling, and to experiment with flavors. Moreover, it is a quick and simple recipe, perfect for family lunches or dinners. Let's start our culinary journey!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 1 medium carrot
- 2 green onions
- 1 bell pepper
- 4 medium potatoes
- 1/2 boneless chicken breast (about 300-400 g)
- 150 g peeled tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 1/2 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 2 sprigs of fresh dill (optional, for garnish)

A Brief History of the Recipe

Stews, in general, have a rich history in many cultures, being slow-cooked dishes that allow flavors to blend and intensify. These dishes are often associated with family meals, where everyone gathers around the table to enjoy a hearty dish. Potato stew with chicken breast is a perfect example of this tradition, combining the basic ingredients of home cooking with simple cooking techniques.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the ingredients

Start by washing the chicken breast well under cold running water. Pat it dry with a paper towel to remove excess water. Cut it into medium-sized pieces so that it cooks evenly.

The green onions should be sliced into rounds, and the bell pepper is deseeded and cut into thin strips. Peel the carrot and cut it into small cubes to cook faster.

Step 2: Sauté the meat

In a deep skillet or pot, heat the two tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they turn slightly golden. This step is essential for sealing the meat's juices and providing a better texture.

Step 3: Add the vegetables

Add the green onions, bell pepper, and carrot to the skillet. Stir well, covering everything with a lid to allow the vegetables to soften. Let them cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Boiling

After the vegetables have softened, add enough water to cover the contents of the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and sweet paprika. Cover with a lid and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. Check periodically and stir to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Add the potatoes

Peel the potatoes and cut them into pieces of about 6-8, depending on their size. Add them to the stew and top up with a little hot water if necessary. Let everything boil for 10 minutes or until the potatoes are soft but not falling apart.

Step 6: Finish the stew

In the last few minutes, add the peeled tomatoes, chopped finely, and the tomato paste, stirring well. Cook for another 3-4 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasonings as desired. Now is the perfect time to add the chopped fresh dill for a touch of freshness.

Serving

Serve the stew hot, accompanied by fresh pickles, which will add a crunchy and tangy note. A slice of homemade bread or steaming polenta pairs perfectly with this dish.

Practical Tips

- Choose fresh ingredients: The quality of the meat and vegetables makes a huge difference in the final taste. Opt for local and seasonal products whenever possible.
- Vary the flavors: You can experiment with various spices, such as thyme or oregano, to adapt the recipe to your preferences.
- Add vegetables: Don't hesitate to include other vegetables, such as zucchini or green beans, to enrich the dish and increase its nutritional value.
- Freezing: The stew keeps well in the freezer, so you can make a larger batch and enjoy it later.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

Potato stew with chicken breast has about 350-400 calories per serving, depending on the oil used and the amount of vegetables. It is rich in protein due to the chicken breast and provides complex carbohydrates from the potatoes, offering long-lasting energy.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use chicken breast with bone? Yes, chicken breast with bone will provide a richer flavor to the stew, but it will require a longer cooking time.
- What else can I add to enhance the flavor? You can add a splash of white wine before adding water for a more complex taste.
- How can I make the recipe vegetarian? Replace the chicken with mushrooms or tofu and use additional vegetables for a savory dish.

Conclusion

Potato stew with chicken breast is a versatile, flavorful, and easy-to-make recipe that can bring joy to family meals. With each serving, you can enjoy a warm, comforting meal that will surely become a family favorite. Try this recipe today and let the wonderful aromas fill your home with delightful scents!