Chicken and onion stew

Onion stew with chicken: a simple and comforting recipe

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 50 minutes
Total: 1 hour
Servings: 4

Who doesn't love a warm meal, full of flavors, that wraps around you like a soft blanket on a chilly evening? Onion stew with chicken is one of those simple yet special recipes that brings joy and comfort in every bite. Although chicken is not an ingredient I use daily at home, my daughters adore it, and this recipe quickly became one of their favorites. Let's discover together how we can prepare this delicious stew!

Necessary ingredients:

- 4 chicken thighs (or a whole chicken, if you prefer)
- 2 medium onions
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Oregano (1 teaspoon)
- A bay leaf
- Oil for sautéing (3-4 tablespoons)
- 50 g tomato paste or canned tomatoes

Helpful tip: If you want to enhance the flavor, you can add a few minced garlic cloves to the hot oil before adding the onion. Garlic will add a note of warmth and depth to the stew.

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Boiling the chicken: Start by placing the chicken thighs in a large pot, covering them with water. Add a teaspoon of salt and let it boil over medium heat. Boil the meat for about 20-30 minutes until tender. Once the chicken is ready, remove it from the water and set it aside, keeping the broth.

2. Preparing the onion: In a large skillet, add the oil and let it heat up. Slice the onion thinly and sauté it in the hot oil, stirring occasionally, until it becomes golden and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. The sautéed onion is the key to this recipe, as it will add sweetness and flavor to the stew.

3. Adding the tomatoes: Once the onion is ready, add the tomato paste or canned tomatoes. Let it simmer together for 5 minutes, stirring frequently. This step will help the flavors combine and become more intense.

4. Combining the ingredients: Add the chicken thighs to the skillet and pour in the broth in which the meat was boiled, enough to cover the ingredients. Add oregano, the bay leaf, salt, and pepper to taste. Cover the skillet and let the stew simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes. This way, the flavors will blend perfectly, and the meat will absorb the taste of onion and tomatoes.

5. Serving: The onion stew with chicken is served hot, alongside creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice. These sides absorb the delicious sauce and add extra flavor to the dish.

Personal tip: I like to sprinkle a little chopped fresh parsley on top of the stew before serving. It not only adds a contrast of color but also a fresh note.

Nutritional benefits: This stew is rich in protein due to the chicken, and the onion brings a lot of antioxidants and vitamins. The olive oil used for sautéing, in moderate amounts, also contributes to heart health.

Possible variations: You can experiment with different types of meat, such as pork or beef, and you can add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers. A vegetarian version could include mushrooms or tofu to replace the chicken.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use leaner chicken? Yes, you can use chicken breast, but you'll need to be careful with the cooking time, as the meat cooks faster.
2. What other sides can I serve alongside? Besides mashed potatoes and rice, the stew also pairs well with polenta or fresh bread.
3. How can I store the stew? If you have leftovers, you can keep the stew in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat it on low heat, adding a little water if necessary.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to try this delicious onion stew with chicken recipe. It is simple, comforting, and full of flavors, perfect for a family dinner or to impress guests. I challenge you to bring a little warmth and joy of cooking into your home! Enjoy your meal!