Chicken stew with vegetables and a layer of new potatoes

Chicken stew with vegetables and a layer of new potatoes is a delicious recipe that brings together fresh ingredients in a comforting dish, perfect for any family meal. This stew is not just a seasonal dish, but also a healthy choice, packed with nutrients. With a combination of juicy chicken and flavorful vegetables, this recipe can quickly become a favorite for everyone. So, let’s get cooking!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 1 chicken breast (approximately 500 g)
- 2 carrots
- 1 yellow bell pepper
- 2 green onions
- 3 medium tomatoes
- 5-6 new potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or sunflower oil
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 2-3 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)

Detailed instructions:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the chicken breast under cold water. Then, cut it into cubes of about 2 cm. Make sure all pieces are uniform for even cooking. The same goes for the vegetables: wash the onion and chop it finely, peel the carrot and slice it into rounds, and remove the seeds and stem from the yellow bell pepper, then cut it into cubes.

2. Peeling the tomatoes: To peel the tomatoes more easily, you can plunge them into hot water for a few seconds, then quickly transfer them to a bowl of cold water. The skin will come off easily. Once peeled, cut them into cubes.

3. Preparing the potatoes: Wash the new potatoes thoroughly under running water. They should not be peeled, as the skin adds extra nutrients and texture. Slice them thinly, about 5 mm thick, for even cooking.

4. Cooking the chicken: In a deep pot, add the two tablespoons of oil and heat it over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken cubes and brown them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. This will help seal in the juices, giving the meat a wonderful flavor.

5. Adding the vegetables: Once the chicken is browned, add the white part of the chopped onion. Stir well and let it sauté for 2-3 minutes. Then add the carrot, bell pepper, and tomatoes. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables start to soften.

6. Seasoning: After the vegetables have started to soften, add the green part of the chopped onion. Season with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add a bit of sweet paprika for a richer flavor. Let it simmer for a few minutes.

7. Transferring to the dish: Remove the pot from the heat and add the chopped fresh parsley. This step will add a touch of freshness to your dish. Then, transfer the chicken stew to a ceramic dish (a Pyroflam type is ideal).

8. Preparing the potatoes: Layer the potato slices on top of the stew. Sprinkle with salt, paprika, and if desired, a bit of dried parsley for a more intense flavor. This layer of potatoes will become crispy while baking and will add a pleasant texture.

9. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Cover the dish with a lid or aluminum foil and place it in the oven. Let it bake for about 1 hour. During this time, the flavors of the vegetables and meat will blend perfectly, and the potatoes will turn golden and crispy.

10. Serving: Once the stew is ready, take the dish out of the oven and let it cool slightly. This chicken stew with vegetables and a layer of new potatoes is perfect served warm, alongside a fresh green salad or a tomato and cucumber salad. You can add a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar to enhance the flavors.

Helpful tips:
- Variations: You can experiment with other vegetables, such as zucchini or eggplant, to adapt the recipe to the season. You can also replace the chicken breast with chicken thighs for a richer and juicier flavor.
- Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use turkey? Absolutely! Turkey will add a different but equally delicious flavor.
- How can I make the recipe spicier? Add a bit of chili pepper or chili flakes for an extra kick.
- Nutritional benefits: This stew is rich in protein due to the chicken, while the vegetables provide essential fiber and vitamins. The new potatoes offer healthy carbohydrates, essential for energy.

Conclusion:
This chicken stew with vegetables and a layer of new potatoes is not only a delicious meal but also a culinary experience that combines simple and healthy ingredients. It’s a versatile recipe that can be adapted to your preferences and the season. So, I wish you success in preparing this recipe and encourage you to share the result with your loved ones! Enjoy every bite and cherish the moments spent in the kitchen!