Chicken and Potato Stew

Chicken potato stew is a comforting dish, perfect for cool days or for moments when you want to enjoy a flavorful and nourishing meal. This simple yet delicious recipe combines textures and flavors that will bring a smile to your face. Whether you prepare it for a family dinner or to impress guests, chicken potato stew proves to be an excellent choice.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 chicken breast (about 500 g)
- 5-6 medium potatoes
- 1 large onion
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 yellow bell pepper
- 1 carrot
- 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A handful of fresh parsley
- Oil for frying (preferably sunflower or olive oil)

A bit of history
Stew is a traditional dish in many cultures, often prepared as a way to gather available ingredients into a comforting meal. This chicken potato stew recipe is very versatile, allowing for various vegetables or spices, making it ideal for satisfying everyone's tastes.

Step by step for a perfect stew

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing the chicken breast well under cold water. Cut it into cubes of about 2-3 cm. This will allow for even and quick cooking. Also, peel the potatoes, carrot, and onion. Cut the potatoes into cubes, and the carrot and onion into thin slices. The bell peppers can be left whole to impart their flavor into the stew.

Step 2: Frying the meat
In a large pot, heat 2-3 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breast cubes and fry for 5-7 minutes until golden brown. This step is crucial for adding extra flavor to your stew.

Step 3: Adding the vegetables
Once the meat is browned, add the onion and carrot. Sauté them together with the chicken for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. The aroma of the fried onion will blend perfectly with that of the meat.

Step 4: Cooking the potatoes
Once the onion becomes translucent, add the cubed potatoes and mix well. Continue cooking for 4-5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to absorb the flavors from the pot. Here you can also add a pinch of salt to help the vegetables release their juices.

Step 5: Flavoring the stew
Quench the heat with a cup of water, add the whole bell peppers, and let it simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes. This is the stage where the flavors develop and combine, transforming simple ingredients into something truly special.

Step 6: Finalizing the dish
After the vegetables are cooked, add the tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well and let the stew simmer for another 5-10 minutes, so all the ingredients blend perfectly. Finally, add the freshly chopped parsley for a touch of freshness.

Serving
Chicken potato stew is served warm, accompanied by pickles, which add a pleasant contrast of flavors. You can opt for homemade pickles or a mix of cucumbers and cabbage, which will add a touch of acidity and crunch.

Practical tips
- If you want to intensify the flavors, you can add a few crushed garlic cloves during the meat frying.
- Vary the vegetables: add zucchini, cauliflower, or peas to diversify the recipe.
- If you prefer a spicier taste, you can add chili peppers or spices like paprika.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I replace the chicken breast with another type of meat? Yes, you can use chicken thighs or even pork. Cooking time may vary, so make sure the meat is well cooked.
2. How can I store the stew? It can be stored in the refrigerator in airtight containers for 2-3 days. You can reheat it on the stove or in the oven.
3. Is this recipe suitable for a diet? Chicken potato stew is a nourishing option, rich in protein and fiber. You can reduce the amount of oil to make the recipe even more diet-friendly.

Conclusion
Chicken potato stew is more than just a recipe; it is a culinary experience that will remind you of family meals and pleasant moments spent together. Whether you prepare it for loved ones or indulge yourself with a little treat, this recipe will surely become a favorite. Enjoy cooking and don't forget to experiment with your favorite ingredients!