Chicken stew with mushrooms

Chicken stew with mushrooms is a recipe that brings an explosion of flavor to the plate, perfect for a family meal or a gathering with friends. This simple and tasty dish is an excellent choice for any season, and the combination of tender chicken and aromatic mushrooms transforms it into an unforgettable preparation. Additionally, served with creamy polenta, the stew becomes a true feast. Let's discover together how to prepare it step by step!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 3 chicken breasts (approximately 600-700 g)
- 700-800 g fresh champignon mushrooms
- 1 large onion (or 3 smaller ones)
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 carrot
- 1 bunch of green onions
- 1 bunch of dill
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 can of chopped tomatoes in juice (cirio)
- 1/2 teaspoon of sweet paprika
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- Polenta for serving
- Chopped dill and parsley for garnish

The story behind the recipe:
Stew, in various forms, is a traditional dish in many cultures, often associated with family meals. This recipe combines simple yet delicious ingredients, bringing together the natural flavors of vegetables and meat. It is a dish that evokes childhood memories, with many families having their own recipes passed down through generations.

Preparing the chicken stew with mushrooms:
1. Prepare the ingredients:
- Start by washing all the vegetables well. Chop the onion finely, and crush the garlic to release its flavors. Larger mushrooms are sliced, while smaller ones are left whole.
- Dice the bell pepper, and grate the carrot. Chop the herbs (dill and parsley) finely.

2. Sauté the onion and garlic:
- In a 4-liter pot, add two tablespoons of vegetable oil and one or two tablespoons of water. This will help cook the onion without frying it. Add the chopped onion and a pinch of salt, allowing it to sauté over low heat for 2-3 minutes. Add the crushed garlic afterward, mixing well.

3. Add the mushrooms and vegetables:
- Once the onion becomes translucent, add the mushrooms and the remaining vegetables: bell pepper and carrot. Let them cook over low heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Add the chicken:
- Cut the chicken breast into small cubes and add it to the pot. Mix well and cook until the meat changes color, turning white. This will take about 5-7 minutes.

5. Simmer the stew:
- Add enough water to cover the vegetables and meat. Let the stew simmer over moderate heat, stirring occasionally.

6. Finalize the dish:
- Halfway through the cooking time, add the canned chopped tomatoes, sweet paprika, chopped herbs (green onions, dill, and parsley), and season with salt and pepper to taste. Continue to simmer until the meat is well cooked and the vegetables are tender, about 15-20 minutes.

7. Serve:
- Once the stew is ready, turn off the heat and cover with a lid to let the flavors meld. Serve the chicken stew with warm polenta on the side and garnish with chopped dill and parsley. You can also add some hot peppers on the table for those who prefer a spicier taste.

Practical tips:
- Choosing mushrooms: Champignon mushrooms are the most common, but you can also experiment with shiitake or oyster mushrooms for a different flavor.
- For a healthier version: You can substitute chicken breast with turkey meat or a mix of vegetables and tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Storage: The stew keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days and can be easily reheated in the microwave or on the stove.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use chicken with bones? Yes, bone-in chicken will add more flavor to the stew, but it will require a longer cooking time.
- How can I thicken the sauce? If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a tablespoon of cornstarch dissolved in cold water in the last minutes of cooking.
- What other recipes go well with chicken stew? Polenta is a classic accompaniment, but you can also serve it with a fresh salad or homemade bread. Additionally, a glass of white wine or a blonde beer can perfectly complement the meal.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
A serving of chicken stew with mushrooms, served with polenta, contains approximately 400-500 calories, depending on the portion of meat and polenta. This dish is rich in protein due to the chicken, while the mushrooms provide fiber and various vitamins. The herbs add a boost of antioxidants and essential vitamins.

Personal note:
This chicken stew with mushrooms is a dish I learned from my grandmother, who used to prepare warm and comforting meals after a long day. The warm aroma of garlic and sautéed onion always reminds me of my childhood and the moments spent around the table with family. I encourage you to try this recipe and personalize it as you like! You might discover your own version of chicken stew that becomes a tradition in your family. Enjoy your meal!