Chicken and potato stew with olives

Potato stew with chicken and olives - a family recipe full of flavor, bringing together simple ingredients to create a comforting and tasty dish. This stew is perfect for cool days when we want to warm our souls and enjoy the natural flavors of vegetables and chicken meat. In this detailed guide, I will walk you step by step through the preparation process, providing useful tips and information about the ingredients so that you achieve a perfect result.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 1.5 kg potatoes
- 500 g chicken breast
- 300 g black olives (preferably pitted)
- 2 carrots
- 3 onions
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red or yellow for extra color)
- 250-300 g tomatoes in sauce (or finely chopped fresh tomatoes)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for frying)

A brief history of the recipe
Potato stew is a rustic dish often associated with traditional cuisine. This recipe has been passed down through generations, with each family having its own personalized version. Potatoes, a versatile and nutritious ingredient, are combined with chicken meat and fresh vegetables to create a hearty and delicious dish. Olives add a salty note that balances the sweetness of the vegetables and meat.

Preparing the ingredients
Before you start cooking, prepare all the ingredients. Peel the potatoes, carrots, and onions, then wash them well. Cut the potatoes into evenly sized cubes so they cook evenly. The carrots and onions should be finely chopped, and the bell pepper should be diced into small cubes. The chicken breast should also be cut into cubes.

Step-by-step instructions
1. Sautéing the vegetables:
In a large pot, add the olive oil (if you opt for the frying version) and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the carrots and bell pepper. Continue to sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes, stirring constantly, until they become slightly soft.

2. Adding the potatoes:
Add the cubed potatoes to the pot, mixing well to coat them with oil and allow them to absorb the flavors of the vegetables. Let them sauté together with the vegetables for 5 minutes.

3. Adding water:
Pour enough water into the pot to cover the potatoes. Allow everything to boil over medium heat for 15-20 minutes, until the potatoes are soft. Check occasionally and add more water if necessary.

4. Preparing the chicken:
Meanwhile, in a separate pan, add a little oil and sauté the chicken breast cubes over medium heat until golden and well cooked, about 7-10 minutes. This step is optional but adds a nice texture to the chicken.

5. Finalizing the stew:
Once the potatoes are nearly cooked, add the sautéed chicken and chopped tomatoes (or sauce) to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to combine all the ingredients and let the stew simmer on low heat for another 10 minutes.

6. Adding olives and parsley:
Five minutes before turning off the heat, add the whole olives and chopped parsley. These ingredients will add a fresh flavor and a salty note, perfectly balancing the dish.

Serving
The potato stew with chicken and olives is served hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or a simple green salad. It is a hearty and healthy meal that will satisfy even the pickiest of tastes. A wonderful idea is to accompany it with a glass of dry white wine or herbal tea to complete the culinary experience.

Frying-free version
For a healthier option, you can skip frying the chicken and vegetables. Simply add all the ingredients (including the diced chicken) to the pot, cover with water, and let it boil over medium heat. This method preserves all the flavors and nutrients while still offering a delicious meal.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, this recipe is versatile. You can use pork or beef, but the cooking time will vary.

2. What other vegetables can I add?
Carrots, bell peppers, and onions are just the beginning. You can add zucchini, green beans, or peas to enrich the taste and texture.

3. How can I make the stew spicier?
If you want a spicier flavor, add some chopped hot pepper or chili flakes during preparation.

Nutritional benefits
This potato stew is an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Potatoes provide energy, while chicken breast is rich in lean protein. Olives bring healthy fats and antioxidants, and the vegetables ensure the necessary fiber intake.

Calories
A serving of potato stew with chicken and olives contains approximately 400-500 calories, depending on the amount of oil used and additional ingredients.

Useful tips
- Buy high-quality olives, as they can significantly influence the taste of the dish.
- If you have time, let the stew sit for a bit after cooking; the flavors will deepen, and the dish will become even tastier.
- Experiment with herbs like rosemary or thyme to add extra flavor.

Potato stew with chicken and olives is an excellent choice for a hearty and healthy family meal. Whether you enjoy it on a cool evening or prepare it for a quick lunch, this recipe will bring smiles and moments full of joy. Try it, and you will discover how easy and enjoyable it is to cook at home!