Chicken stew with polenta

Chicken stew with polenta – the comfort of traditional taste

If you are looking for a recipe that combines the flavor of chicken with the creamy texture of polenta, you have come to the right place! Chicken stew with polenta is a traditional dish that has brought smiles to the faces of many generations and continues to be a favorite in many households. This simple and accessible recipe will bring you the joy of cooking at home, and the final result is a dish that will warm your soul.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4

The history of this recipe is fascinating. Chicken stew is a recipe that has evolved over time, adapting to the ingredients and preferences of each family. In many cultures, the combination of meat and grains has been used to create nourishing meals, and polenta, a corn-based dish, is a symbol of the culinary roots and traditions of many peoples.

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 kg of chicken drumsticks (or other chicken meat, such as breast or thighs)
- 4-5 medium onions
- 3-4 tablespoons of vegetable oil (preferably sunflower or olive oil)
- 1 cup of white wine (approximately 125 ml)
- water (enough to cover the meat)
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon of sweet paprika (optional, but recommended for flavor)

Preparing the chicken stew:

1. Marinating the meat (optional, but recommended):
To achieve tastier and more tender chicken, I suggest marinating it for about two hours. You can use a combination of salt, pepper, sweet paprika, a few drops of Worcestershire sauce, and wine. Place the meat in a bowl, add the spices, and mix well. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate.

2. Preparing the onions:
In a deep skillet or pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté with a little salt until they become transparent. This step is essential, as sautéed onions will add a delicious aroma and a savory base to the dish.

3. Adding the chicken:
After the onions have sautéed, add the chicken drumsticks and wine. Let them brown slightly for about 5 minutes. With this technique, the meat will retain its juices, and the flavors will intensify.

4. Simmering the stew:
Add water to the pot, enough to cover the meat. Cover with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for 30-45 minutes, or until the meat is fully cooked and tender. Don’t forget to stir occasionally and check the water level, adding more if necessary.

5. Seasoning:
In the last few minutes of cooking, taste the stew and add salt, pepper, and sweet paprika to preference. This step will ensure a balanced and flavorful taste.

Preparing the polenta:

Meanwhile, you can prepare the polenta. This delicious side dish is easy to make:

1. In a pot, add 1 liter of water and a little salt. Bring the water to a boil.
2. When the water starts to boil, gradually add 250 grams of cornmeal, continuously stirring with a whisk to avoid lumps.
3. Keep stirring until the polenta thickens and becomes smooth (about 10-15 minutes).
4. When ready, you can pour it into a bowl or tray, letting it cool a little before cutting it.

Serving:
Serve the hot chicken stew together with the polenta, garnished with a little chopped fresh parsley if desired. This classic combination will be loved by the whole family, and the polenta will help absorb the delicious sauce.

Useful tips:
- If you want to try a spicier version of the stew, you can add some hot peppers or spices like hot paprika.
- Polenta can also be made with milk instead of water for a creamier texture.
- Leftover stew can be stored in the fridge and reheated the next day, and the flavors will intensify even more.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use another type of meat?
Yes, you can use chicken breast or thighs, depending on your preferences. Cooking time may vary slightly.

2. How can I make the polenta less dense?
Add more water during cooking or reduce the amount of cornmeal used.

3. What other side dishes can I use?
Besides polenta, chicken stew also pairs well with mashed potatoes or a fresh salad.

This chicken stew with polenta recipe is a perfect choice for a family dinner or a festive meal. I encourage you to experiment and adapt the recipe to your tastes. Enjoy your meal!