Chicken stew

Chicken stew is a comforting dish, full of flavors, perfect for a family meal or with friends. This simple yet delicious recipe will transform your kitchen into a sanctuary of tastes. Preparing chicken stew doesn't take long, and with a few key ingredients, you'll achieve an impressive result.

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

Ingredients:
- 800 g chicken breast (or chicken thighs for a richer taste)
- 2 medium onions, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3-4 garlic cloves, crushed
- 400 g canned tomatoes (or 2-3 fresh tomatoes)
- 200 ml chicken broth or water
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A handful of fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by cutting the chicken breast into cubes of about 3 cm. If you choose chicken thighs, remove the skin and bones to get tender meat. Chop the onion, carrots, and bell pepper so that you have all the ingredients ready.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large skillet or deep pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the carrots and bell pepper, continuing to sauté for another 5 minutes.

3. Adding the chicken: At this point, add the chicken cubes to the skillet. Brown them well on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. This step is essential to seal in the juices, providing a juicy texture.

4. Seasoning: Once the chicken is browned, add the crushed garlic and sweet paprika, mixing well to combine the flavors. These spices will add a pleasant note to your stew.

5. Adding tomatoes and broth: Pour the canned tomatoes and chicken broth (or water) over the mixture in the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything well and let it simmer.

6. Slow cooking: Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid. Let the stew simmer gently for 30-35 minutes, stirring occasionally. This process will allow the flavors to intensify and the meat to become tender.

7. Finishing the dish: Once the stew is ready, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, sprinkled with fresh chopped parsley for an extra touch of freshness.

Serving: Chicken stew pairs perfectly with rice or polenta, but you can also enjoy it with a slice of fresh bread. For a personal touch, add some green olives or capers in the last 10 minutes of cooking for a Mediterranean flavor.

Variations: If you want to try a beef version, follow the same instructions, but you'll need to let the meat simmer longer to become tender. You can also experiment with vegetables like zucchini or eggplant, adapting the recipe to the season.

This chicken stew is an excellent choice for a quick dinner during the week or for a simple recipe when you have guests. Cook with confidence and enjoy a delicious meal!