Chicken stew with mushrooms

Chicken stew with mushrooms – a comforting recipe full of flavor and love

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Who doesn’t fondly remember family meals, where the combined aromas of meat and vegetables brought us all to the table? Chicken stew with mushrooms is one of those recipes that makes us feel at home. It’s a delicious combination of simple ingredients that together create a comforting and tasty meal. In this guide, I will share with you the necessary steps to prepare this delicious stew, along with useful tips and ingredient information.

Necessary ingredients

- 2 chicken breasts (approximately 500-600 g)
- 2 red bell peppers
- 3 large onions
- 500-600 g fresh mushrooms
- 1 cup of heavy cream (preferably from Danone)
- Cooking oil (approximately 2-3 tablespoons)
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 2 garlic cloves
- A handful of fresh dill or parsley (for serving)

Preparation

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the chicken breast well and cutting it into long strips, about 2-3 cm wide. This size will help the meat cook evenly. Slice the onion thinly (julienne), and cut the bell pepper into strips. Slice the fresh mushrooms thinly to integrate perfectly into the stew. Make sure to use fresh mushrooms, as they add a special flavor to the dish.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for about 10 minutes until it becomes translucent and releases its aroma. This step is essential to bring depth to the flavor of your stew.

3. Adding the bell pepper: Once the onion is sautéed, add the bell pepper and continue to sauté for another 5 minutes. The bell pepper will add a sweet note and vibrant color to the stew.

4. Including the chicken: Now it’s time for the chicken breast! Add the chicken strips to the pot, stirring well to coat them with the oil and the flavors of the vegetables. Cook for 7-10 minutes until the meat changes color and turns white.

5. Adding the mushrooms: Put the sliced mushrooms in the pot and stir gently. From here on, there’s no need to add water, as the mushrooms will start to release water as they cook, providing a delicious natural sauce.

6. Seasoning: After the mushrooms have softened, add salt, pepper, thyme, and basil to taste. These spices will enhance the flavors and turn the stew into a true delicacy.

7. Finalizing the dish: Mince the garlic cloves and add them to the pot, stirring well. After 5-10 minutes, when all the ingredients are well integrated, add the heavy cream, stirring to obtain a creamy sauce. Turn off the heat and sprinkle fresh chopped dill or parsley on top.

Serving

The chicken stew with mushrooms pairs perfectly with a serving of warm polenta and a bit of feta cheese or a slice of fresh bread. The rich aroma and creamy texture make this dish an excellent choice for a family dinner or a meal with friends.

Tips and useful advice

- Choose fresh mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms taste much better than canned ones. You can opt for champignon, porcini, or even oyster mushrooms for a more intense flavor.
- Vary the vegetables: You can add sliced carrots or zucchini for an extra boost of nutrients and color.
- Thickening the sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a tablespoon of cornstarch dissolved in cold water before adding the cream.

Nutritional benefits

The chicken stew with mushrooms is rich in protein from the meat, vitamins, and minerals from the vegetables, providing a balanced meal. Mushrooms are an excellent source of antioxidants, and the cream adds a touch of creaminess and calcium.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, turkey is an excellent alternative. Make sure to adjust the cooking time, as turkey may require a bit more time.

2. Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
The chicken stew with mushrooms can be frozen, but I recommend adding the cream only when reheating to maintain the sauce's texture.

3. What wine pairs well with this dish?
A dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, will perfectly complement the flavors of the stew.

Conclusion

The chicken stew with mushrooms is not only a simple and quick recipe but also a dish that brings family and friends closer together. With every bite, you will feel the comfort and warmth of a meal cooked with love. So embrace this recipe, experiment with the ingredients, and don’t forget to share the joy of cooking with your loved ones!