Chicken stew

Savory Chicken Stew

Are you looking for a simple recipe with a unique flavor that will bring joy to your table? I propose a chicken stew that will delight the taste buds of your entire family. This dish, rich in aromas and traditions, is perfect for weekend meals or to impress your guests. With simple ingredients and accessible cooking techniques, the chicken stew can easily become the star of the evening.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 kg of chicken drumsticks or thighs
- 2 bunches of green onions
- 1 bunch of green garlic tops (or 4-5 cloves of dried garlic)
- 1 glass (about 200 ml) of white wine
- 1 can of 500 g of crushed or diced tomatoes
- 2-3 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil or sunflower oil, for frying
- A handful of fresh parsley, for garnish

A bit of history
Stew is a traditional dish with deep roots in folk cuisine. Over time, it has been adapted and reinterpreted in various ways, but its essence remains the same: a mix of meat and vegetables, cooked slowly to release all the flavors. This chicken stew is inspired by rustic style, where simple ingredients turn into true delicacies through slow cooking.

Preparing the chicken stew

1. Prepare the ingredients
Start by washing the chicken drumsticks or thighs well. If you choose drumsticks, they will add extra flavor, but you can also opt for chicken breast if you prefer leaner meat. Chop the green onions and garlic tops into small pieces. If using dried garlic, peel and chop a few cloves.

2. Brown the meat
In a large skillet, heat a few tablespoons of olive or sunflower oil over medium heat. Add the chicken drumsticks and let them brown evenly, turning them occasionally, for about 10-12 minutes. You will know they are ready when they have a delicious golden color. Remove them from the skillet and cover with a lid to keep warm.

3. Cook the vegetables
In the same skillet, add the onions and garlic. Sauté them lightly for 3-4 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. This step is essential because the flavors blend perfectly and provide a delicious base for the stew.

4. Add the wine and spices
Pour the white wine into the skillet, stirring well to release all the flavors from the bottom of the pan. Add the bay leaves, salt, and pepper, then return the drumsticks to the skillet. Meanwhile, add enough water to cover the meat. Place a lid on (but not completely, leave a little to let the steam escape) and let it simmer on low heat for 30-40 minutes. This slow process will make the meat tender and juicy.

5. Finish the stew
Once the meat is well cooked, add the crushed or diced tomatoes, stirring gently. Let it simmer for another 10-15 minutes so that the sauce thickens slightly. Here you can adjust the seasoning by adding more salt or pepper to taste.

6. Serving
Finally, add the chopped fresh parsley for an extra touch of freshness. This chicken stew pairs perfectly with vegetable rice, a salad of raw vegetables, or, if you want to indulge, with a serving of warm polenta. The fine texture of the polenta will perfectly complement the rich sauce flavor.

Practical tips
- Use extra virgin olive oil for a more intense flavor, but sunflower oil is a good and more accessible alternative.
- If you want a spicier stew, add a few slices of hot pepper or spices like smoked paprika.
- Experiment with other vegetables! Carrots or bell peppers added during cooking can bring extra flavor and color.

Calories and nutritional benefits
Per serving, the chicken stew has approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of oil used and the side dish. It is an excellent source of protein, B vitamins, and antioxidants from vegetables. Consuming chicken in your diet contributes to muscle development and maintaining a healthy immune system.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use other types of meat?
Of course! This recipe can also be adapted to other types of meat, such as beef or lamb, but the cooking time will vary.
- Is the stew good the next day?
Yes! The flavor intensifies as the stew sits, so it can be enjoyed the next day as well. You can easily reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.
- Can it be frozen?
Yes, the chicken stew keeps well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in airtight containers.

Now that you know how to prepare this delicious chicken stew, all that’s left is to put on your apron and give it a try! Every bite will bring an explosion of flavors and turn an ordinary meal into a memorable feast. Enjoy your meal!