Chicken with pepper sauce

Chicken with Pepper Sauce

If you've ever wanted to savor a delicious dish with rich flavors and pleasant textures, the chicken with pepper sauce recipe is the perfect choice. This dish is not only satisfying but also simple to prepare, making it ideal for family meals or special occasions. I will guide you step by step through the preparation process, providing you with some useful tips and information about the ingredients used.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 35 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 4 chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon sweet pepper paste
- 1/4 tablespoon hot pepper paste (optional, depending on preferences)
- Salt, to taste
- Oil for frying
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 200 ml cold water
- 1 bunch of parsley, finely chopped

Preparation:

1. Preparing the chicken thighs
Start by washing the chicken thighs well under a stream of cold water. Make sure to remove any feathers or impurities. In a pot, add water and bring it to a boil. Add the chicken thighs and boil them for about 10-15 minutes, until they are partially cooked. This step is essential as it ensures the chicken will be tender and juicy.

2. Frying the thighs
In a deep skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Remove the chicken thighs from the water and let them drain slightly. Fry the thighs in the hot oil for 3-4 minutes on each side, until they become golden and crispy. This step will add a delicious texture to the dish. Once the thighs are fried, remove them to a plate and reduce the heat.

3. Preparing the sauce
In the same skillet, add the flour and quickly mix it into the oil, forming a roux. This step will help thicken the sauce. Gradually pour in the cold water, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Once you have a smooth mixture, add the tomato paste, sweet pepper paste, and hot pepper paste (if you want a spicier sauce). Let the sauce simmer over low heat for 10-15 minutes, until it thickens and the flavors combine.

4. Combining the ingredients
Add the fried thighs to the pepper sauce and season with salt to taste. Allow everything to simmer together for another 10 minutes, so the chicken absorbs the delicious flavors of the sauce. It is important to stir occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom of the skillet.

5. Finishing the dish
Before turning off the heat, add the finely chopped parsley for a fresh touch. This will not only beautify the dish but also add a note of flavor.

Serving:

The chicken with pepper sauce recipe can be served alongside a side of mashed potatoes, which will absorb the tasty sauce, and marinated bell peppers for a contrast of textures and flavors. This dish pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad that balances the richness of the sauce.

Useful tips:

- Choosing the meat: Chicken thighs are a fantastic choice for this recipe as they have a higher fat content, making them juicier. If you prefer, you can use chicken breast, but be careful not to overcook it to avoid dryness.
- Vegetarian option: If you want a vegetarian option, you can replace the chicken thighs with large mushrooms or cubed tofu, which you fry separately before adding to the sauce.
- Adjusting the spices: For those who prefer a spicier sauce, experiment with more hot pepper paste or chopped fresh peppers. You can also add spices such as smoked paprika or garlic for an extra flavor boost.

Nutritional information:

This chicken with pepper sauce recipe provides an excellent source of protein from the chicken, while the pepper sauce brings vitamins and necessary antioxidants from vegetables. Each serving contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of oil used for frying and in the sauce. It is a nutritious option, ideal for a family meal.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can experiment with other parts of the chicken or even with pork or beef, but the cooking time will vary.

2. What type of pepper paste can I use?
Pepper pastes can be found in most supermarkets, but you can also make them at home by blending roasted peppers with olive oil and spices.

3. How can I keep the sauce fresh?
The pepper sauce keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, but it is recommended to reheat the dish before serving.

4. What drinks pair well with this dish?
A dry white wine or a pale beer pairs wonderfully with this dish, balancing the rich flavors of the sauce.

Now that you have all this information and tips, you are ready to prepare a chicken with pepper sauce that will surely impress everyone at the table. Enjoy every bite and share the joy of cooking a delicious dish with your loved ones!