Pea stew with chicken

Pea stew with chicken: a comforting delight

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Who doesn't nostalgically remember Sunday meals when the whole family gathered around the table to enjoy delicious dishes? Pea stew with chicken is a perfect example of a recipe that brings together tradition and unmistakable flavor. This simple, quick, and healthy recipe can be easily prepared and is ideal for a family dinner or to impress friends.

The mastery of this recipe lies in the simplicity of the ingredients and how they combine to create an explosion of flavors. Pea stew with chicken is not only tasty but also nutritious, thanks to the protein-rich chicken and vitamin-packed peas. Let's embark on this culinary journey.

Necessary ingredients:

- 2 medium onions
- 1 green bell pepper
- 2 red bell peppers
- 500 g chicken meat (thighs or breast, depending on preference)
- 400 g peas (fresh or frozen)
- 3-4 tablespoons sunflower or olive oil
- 1-2 tablespoons vegeta (or salt, to taste)
- water (enough to cover the ingredients)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing the chicken well. If using thighs, I recommend cutting them into smaller pieces for even cooking. If you choose chicken breast, cut it into cubes. This will help with better marination and more even cooking.

Peel and finely chop the onion. Cut the bell pepper and the red bell peppers into cubes. If you have fresh peas, make sure to wash and clean them well.

2. Heating the oil
In a large pot, add the oil and let it heat over medium heat. If you want to add extra flavor, you can use extra virgin olive oil, which will give a more intense taste.

3. Sautéing the vegetables
Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. This is when the oil will absorb the onion's aroma. Then, add the green bell pepper and the red bell peppers. Let them sauté together for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Cooking the chicken
Now it's time to add the chicken to the pot. Mix well so that the pieces of meat are coated with the aromatic oil and vegetables. Let it brown lightly for 5-7 minutes until golden.

5. Boiling
Add water to the pot, enough to cover the meat and vegetables. Bring everything to a boil and then reduce the heat to medium. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer for about 15 minutes until the meat is well cooked and tender.

6. Adding the peas
Once the chicken is ready, add the peas. If using frozen peas, there is no need to thaw them beforehand. Mix well, then add vegeta or salt to taste. Let everything boil for another 5-10 minutes until the peas are soft but still retain a crunchy texture.

7. Serving
Once everything is ready, turn off the heat and let the stew rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld even better. You can serve the pea stew with chicken alongside a side of rice or polenta, which will perfectly complement this dish.

Useful tips:
- If you want to add extra flavor, you can include some herbs such as thyme or parsley, which pair wonderfully with this dish.
- A delicious variation of this recipe is to add some sliced carrots, which will bring a note of sweetness and color.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use canned peas?
Yes, you can use canned peas, but add them in the last 5 minutes of cooking to avoid them breaking down.

2. How can I make the recipe spicier?
For a spicy note, you can add a finely chopped chili pepper or even a bit of paprika.

3. Is this recipe suitable for children?
Yes, it is a healthy and nutritious recipe, ideal for children. You can adjust the spices to suit their tastes.

Nutritional values (per serving):
- Calories: approximately 350 kcal
- Protein: 30 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 5 g

Pea stew with chicken is more than just a simple dish; it is a recipe that evokes memories and brings the family together. Experiment with the ingredients and customize the recipe according to your tastes, and each meal will become a culinary celebration. Cook with love and enjoy every bite!