Chicken Tochitura

Chicken Breast Stew: A Delicious Dish Easy to Prepare

If you are looking for a simple and delicious recipe for a nutritious meal, chicken breast stew is the perfect choice. This recipe is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients, providing you with the energy you need for the whole day. Moreover, it doesn't take long to prepare, and the result is a dish that will delight both family and friends.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 35 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:

- 500 g chicken breast, cut into cubes
- 200 g homemade smoked sausages, sliced
- 4 cloves of garlic, peeled and minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or sunflower oil)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 150 ml red wine
- 2 eggs
- 100 g cheese (optional, for serving)
- A handful of fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 bay leaf

Recipe Story:

Stew is a traditional dish that has its roots in Romanian cuisine, being considered a hearty meal. It has been prepared over time in various versions, with each region having its own interpretation. Today, I will present a simplified yet delicious recipe that highlights the unmistakable flavors of the ingredients.

Preparing the Stew:

1. Heating the Oil: Start by placing the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Make sure the oil is well heated before adding the meat. This step helps achieve a crispy crust on the chicken breast.

2. Cooking the Chicken Breast: Add the chicken breast cubes to the skillet and let them fry for about 5 minutes, turning them occasionally to brown evenly. The meat should be slightly golden on the outside but not fully cooked, as it will continue to cook in the following steps.

3. Adding the Sausages: Once the chicken breast starts to brown, add the slices of smoked sausage to the skillet. The smoky flavors of the sausages will infuse the meat and add a savory depth to the dish. Let them fry together for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Garlic and Spices: Add the minced garlic, bay leaf, salt, and pepper to the skillet. The garlic will add an unmistakable flavor, and the bay leaf will enrich the taste. Stir well to distribute the flavors.

5. Adding the Sauce: Pour in the tomato paste and red wine into the skillet. These ingredients will form a delicious sauce that will coat the meat. Mix everything well and let it simmer on low heat for 20 minutes. This simmering time will allow the flavors to meld and the meat to become tender.

6. Finalizing the Dish: After the cooking time has expired, remove the skillet from the heat. The sauce should be reduced and have a pleasant consistency. You can taste and adjust the seasonings if necessary.

Serving:

Chicken breast stew is served warm, garnished with boiled or fried eggs, and sprinkled with grated cheese on top. The freshly chopped parsley adds a note of freshness and beautifully colors the dish.

Tips for a Perfect Result:

- Choose fresh, quality chicken breast for a more tender texture.
- If you like more intense flavors, you can add a few drops of soy sauce or a pinch of smoked paprika.
- Instead of smoked sausages, you can use bacon or ham for a different type of flavor.
- If you want a vegetarian version, you can replace the chicken breast with mushrooms and the sausages with smoked tofu.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I replace the red wine?
Yes, you can use chicken broth or water, but the wine adds a note of complexity.

2. What side dishes go well with the stew?
I recommend mashed potatoes or polenta, which perfectly complement the rich flavors of the dish.

3. How many calories does this recipe have?
One serving of chicken breast stew contains approximately 450-500 calories, depending on the amount of oil and cheese used.

4. Can the stew be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the dish after it has completely cooled. Make sure to store it in airtight containers.

Personal Variation:

I recommend trying to add some black or green olives to the cooking sauce to bring an extra flavor. They pair very well with the meat flavors and offer a Mediterranean note.

In conclusion, chicken breast stew is a versatile recipe that can be adapted according to your preferences. It is easy to prepare and will surely be a hit at your table. Enjoy your meal!