Chicken with asparagus and potatoes

Chicken with Asparagus and Potatoes: A Delicious Spring Recipe

When it comes to spring, there’s nothing more comforting and delicious than a dish that combines the freshness of seasonal vegetables with the aroma of well-cooked meat. Today, I invite you to discover my recipe for Chicken with Asparagus and Potatoes, a perfect choice for a family meal or a special dinner. This recipe is not only simple but also full of flavor, featuring a harmonious mix of ingredients that will delight your taste buds.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 4

The Story of the Recipe

Asparagus is a spring ingredient that fills our hearts with joy and reminds us of lush gardens. Although it has been a valued vegetable for centuries, it has gained popularity more recently due to its nutritional benefits. With a delicate taste and a crunchy texture, asparagus pairs perfectly with chicken, while potatoes add a consistency that transforms this dish into a true feast. I chose to prepare this recipe with free-range chicken, which has a more intense flavor, but you can also opt for store-bought chicken to save time.

Ingredients

- 500 g chicken (thighs and wings)
- 1 bunch of fresh asparagus
- 9 small potatoes (about 3 potatoes per person)
- 1 cup of tomato juice
- 200 g cherry tomatoes
- 1 medium onion
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 glass of white wine (optional but recommended)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon of ginger powder
- Water (about 500 ml)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Ingredients: Start by washing the chicken well under cold running water. Let it dry a bit on a kitchen towel. Peel the potatoes and asparagus. Cut the asparagus into shorter pieces, removing the woody part from the base.

2. Cooking the Onion: In a large pot, add the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté it gently until it becomes translucent.

3. Adding the Meat: Place the chicken pieces in the pot and let them brown slightly. This will add a special flavor to the dish.

4. Boiling the Meat: Add hot water (about 500 ml) to the pot and let the chicken simmer on low heat, covered, for 30 minutes. When the water has reduced and the chicken is nearly cooked, add the whole potatoes and white wine. Cover the pot again and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes until the potatoes start to soften but are not fully cooked.

5. Adding the Asparagus: Now it’s time to add the asparagus and halved cherry tomatoes. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and ginger powder for extra flavor. Cover the pot and let it simmer for another 10 minutes.

6. Finishing the Dish: Turn off the heat and sprinkle fresh parsley and basil on top. Cover the pot again and let the dish rest for a few minutes so the flavors can meld.

7. Serving: Serve this dish warm, alongside a fresh green salad or crusty bread. You can also drizzle a bit of extra virgin olive oil on top for an even more intense flavor.

Practical Tips

- Caring for Asparagus: Choose fresh asparagus with firm stems and green leaves. If the asparagus is older, it can be woody. You can test it by breaking the stem; if it snaps easily, it’s fresh.
- Types of Meat: If you use store-bought chicken, the cooking time will be significantly shorter. Make sure to check the internal temperature of the meat, which should be 75°C.
- Variations: You can replace asparagus with other seasonal vegetables, such as zucchini or carrots, to diversify the recipe. You can also use other types of meat, such as turkey or pork.

Nutritional Benefits

This recipe for chicken with asparagus and potatoes is not only delicious but also healthy. Asparagus is rich in vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants. Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, while potatoes provide essential carbohydrates for energy.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of vegetables instead of asparagus?
- Yes, you can replace asparagus with vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or even broccoli, depending on your preferences.

2. How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
- You can eliminate the chicken and replace it with tofu or mushrooms, which can add a similar texture.

3. Can it be prepared in advance?
- Yes, you can prepare this recipe a day ahead and reheat it before serving. The flavors will intensify even more.

Recommended Pairings

This dish pairs wonderfully with a dry white wine or a cold blonde beer. Additionally, a fresh salad with lemon dressing and olive oil will perfectly complement the meal.

In conclusion, the recipe for Chicken with Asparagus and Potatoes is not just a visual feast but also an explosion of flavors that will keep you coming back to it. With simple ingredients and a clear cooking process, you will create a dish that will impress everyone. So, get ready to enjoy spring on your plate!