Chicken stew with yogurt

Chicken Stew with Yogurt - A Comfort Food Recipe Full of Flavor

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

When it comes to dishes that remind us of the warmth and comfort of home, chicken stew with yogurt is at the top of the list. This traditional, simple, and quick recipe combines the delicate flavors of chicken with the creaminess of yogurt, providing food lovers with a delicious meal that can be prepared in a short time. Additionally, it is an excellent choice for a family dinner or a meal with friends.

The history of stews is vast, being a dish found in many cultures, but each time with a local twist. Today, we pay homage to this classic recipe, personalizing it with yogurt, which not only adds a layer of creaminess but also a touch of freshness.

The basic ingredients of the recipe are simple, but they can vary depending on preferences and season. Here’s what you will need:

Ingredients:
- 1 chicken breast (approximately 500 g)
- 1 medium onion
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 300 g mushrooms (fresh or canned)
- 1 cup of meat broth (approximately 250 ml)
- 1 cup of tomato juice (approximately 250 ml)
- 150 g yogurt (preferably plain)
- 1 tablespoon flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Paprika (sweet or spicy, according to preferences)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil

Practical tips about ingredients:
- Choose fresh chicken breast, as frozen meat can have a different texture.
- You can replace the mushrooms with seasonal vegetables, such as zucchini or carrots, to diversify the recipe.
- Yogurt can be replaced with sour cream, but remember that sour cream will add a richer and less tangy flavor.

Step by step:

1. Prepare the ingredients: Start by cutting the chicken breast into evenly sized cubes so that it cooks evenly. Chop the onion and garlic finely, and you can slice or cube the mushrooms, depending on your preference.

2. Mix the flour with the spices: In a plate, combine the flour with salt, pepper, and paprika. This mixture will add a delicious crust to the chicken and enhance the flavor of the stew.

3. Dredge the chicken in the flour mixture: Add the chicken cubes to the plate and ensure they are well coated with the flour mixture.

4. Sauté the onion and garlic: In a large skillet, heat the two tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.

5. Add the chicken: Place the chicken cubes in the skillet and stir continuously to brown them evenly. This step is essential to seal in the juices of the meat.

6. Add the liquids: Once the chicken is browned, pour the meat broth and tomato juice into the skillet. Mix well to combine the ingredients.

7. Add the mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms and stir, then cover the skillet with a lid. Allow the stew to simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes, until the chicken is well cooked and the tomato juice has thickened.

8. Incorporate the yogurt: When the chicken is ready, reduce the heat to low and add the yogurt. Mix well to achieve a creamy consistency. Let it simmer for a few more minutes – this is the moment to enjoy the delicious aroma spreading through the kitchen!

9. Serve with mashed potatoes: This stew pairs perfectly with creamy mashed potatoes, but you can also opt for rice or pasta. You can garnish the plate with freshly chopped parsley for an extra touch of color and freshness.

Personal notes: I discovered this recipe thanks to my grandmother, who had a special way of turning simple ingredients into unforgettable meals. I added yogurt to give it a modern touch while keeping the charm of home-cooked recipes.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen chicken? I recommend using fresh chicken for the best results, but if you have frozen chicken, make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
- What else can I add to the stew? You can add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers to enrich the dish.
- How can I make the stew spicier? Add chopped hot peppers or a pinch of chili powder during cooking.

Nutritional benefits: This chicken stew is a good source of protein, thanks to the chicken, and contains vegetables that provide essential vitamins and minerals. Yogurt adds calcium and probiotics, beneficial for digestive health.

Possible variations: You can experiment with different types of meat, such as turkey or rabbit. Also, replacing yogurt with a vegan alternative can transform the recipe into a vegan-friendly option.

Chicken stew with yogurt is not just a delicious recipe, but also a wonderful way to gather the family around the table. Enjoy!