Chicken stew

Chicken stew: a delicious and comforting recipe

Welcome to the world of flavors and tastes! Today, I will share my favorite chicken stew recipe, a dish that combines tradition with modern flavor. This recipe is perfect for a family meal or to impress friends at a special dinner.

A brief story about chicken stew

Chicken stew is a recipe that has passed through generations, often prepared during holidays or family reunions. This savory dish, with a rich and aromatic sauce, is often associated with comfort and the warmth of home. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or to treat yourself on an ordinary evening, chicken stew is always an inspired choice.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 55-55 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients

- 6 chicken thighs (preferably with skin for a richer taste)
- 1 large white onion, finely chopped
- 6 green onion stalks, cut into 3-4 cm pieces
- 6 garlic stalks, cut into 3-4 cm pieces
- 200 ml tomato juice (or tomato sauce)
- 250 ml vegetable or chicken broth, for an intense flavor
- 8 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 100 ml dry white wine (to add depth)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2-3 fresh basil leaves (for a fresh aroma)
- Optional: a bunch of chopped parsley (for garnish)

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing the chicken thighs well and drying them with a paper towel. This step is essential for achieving a nice crust during cooking. Season them with salt and pepper on both sides to enhance their flavor.

2. Searing the meat
In a large skillet or deep pot, add the 8 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs and sauté them for 5-7 minutes, until they are golden on all sides. This step not only adds flavor but also helps seal in the juices of the meat.

3. Adding the onion
Once the meat is browned, add the finely chopped white onion. Sauté together for another 3-5 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent and releases its aromas.

4. Stewing the meat
Add 150 ml of chicken broth over the chicken thighs and onion. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer over low heat for 10 minutes. This will help tenderize the meat and allow the flavors to blend.

5. Preparing the vegetables
Meanwhile, in a separate skillet, sauté the green onion and garlic in a little olive oil. Cook for about 5 minutes, until they become tender. These ingredients will add a fresh and vibrant taste to your stew!

6. Combining the ingredients
After the onion and garlic are ready, add them to the chicken in the pot. Then, add the tomato sauce, white wine, and basil leaves. Mix everything well and cover the pot again.

7. Final simmering
Let the stew simmer over low heat for 10 minutes, then remove the lid and continue cooking for another 5-10 minutes, so the sauce reduces and becomes more concentrated. If desired, you can add the chopped parsley in the last 2-3 minutes of cooking for an extra freshness.

8. Serving
The chicken stew is served hot, alongside a side of mashed potatoes or rice, which will absorb the delicious sauce. A glass of white wine pairs perfectly with this dish, adding a touch of elegance to your meal.

Useful tips

- Choosing the meat: Chicken thighs are ideal for this stew, but you can also use chicken breast, just keep in mind it will require a shorter cooking time.
- The broth: Use homemade chicken or vegetable broth for a more intense flavor. If you don't have broth on hand, you can use water, but the final taste will be less rich.
- Variations: You can add various vegetables, such as carrots or bell peppers, to enrich the dish. Additionally, a squeeze of lemon at the end can provide a note of freshness.

Nutritional information

Chicken stew is a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Chicken thighs are rich in protein and contain healthy fats, while the vegetables add fiber and antioxidants. Each serving has approximately 400-500 calories, depending on the amount of oil and the side dish used.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use turkey meat?
Yes, turkey meat is a healthy alternative and will cook similarly.

2. How can I make the stew spicier?
Add chili peppers or chili flakes to enhance the flavor intensity.

3. Can it be prepared in advance?
Of course! Chicken stew stores well in the refrigerator, and the taste gets even better the next day.

Serving recommendations

For a complete meal, you can accompany the chicken stew with a fresh vegetable salad, creamy mashed potatoes, or rice with herbs. A simple dessert, such as an apple pie or vanilla ice cream, will perfectly finish the meal.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it’s time to start cooking! Chicken stew will pamper you with delicious flavors and bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!