Chicken Stifado

Chicken Stifado: A delicious recipe for unforgettable moments in the kitchen

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

Chicken Stifado is a traditional recipe, full of flavors and tastes, combining tender chicken meat with caramelized onion, garlic, and aromatic spices. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or to impress your guests. I will guide you through each step to achieve a perfect result, making your culinary indulgence truly memorable.

Ingredients needed

- 1 kg of chicken thighs or breast (choose what you prefer, but thighs are juicier)
- 4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil (for an authentic flavor)
- 400 g of onion (you can use regular onion or spring onion, depending on your taste)
- 6 cloves of garlic (or more if you love strong flavors)
- 2 bay leaves (for a subtle aroma)
- 4 tablespoons of tomato paste or 5 peeled tomatoes (choose the version you like more)
- A handful of fresh parsley (for a fresh finish)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- A pinch of cinnamon and a few cloves (optional, for those who love exotic flavors)

The story of the recipe

Stifado is a recipe with ancient origins, often associated with beef dishes, but today we focus on the chicken version. This combination of meat and vegetables is cooked slowly, allowing the flavors to blend perfectly, resulting in a dish that invites you to sit at the table and savor every bite.

Step by step: How to prepare a delicious Chicken Stifado

1. Prepare the ingredients: Wash the chicken well and cut it into medium-sized pieces. Peel the onion and garlic, and if you are using spring onions, leave them whole. If you choose to use fresh tomatoes, peel them and cut them into cubes.

2. Heat the oil: In a large pan, heat the olive oil. Make sure the oil is hot before adding the meat to achieve a nice crust.

3. Fry the meat: Add the chicken pieces to the pan, being careful not to overcrowd them. Fry them on each side until golden, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove them to a plate and set aside.

4. Sauté the vegetables: In the same pan, add the onion and garlic. Sauté over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the onion becomes translucent and slightly caramelized, about 5-6 minutes. Then add the bay leaves and tomatoes or tomato paste. Continue cooking, stirring, for another 3-4 minutes.

5. Add the meat back: Return the chicken pieces to the pan and pour in enough water to cover them. Season with salt, pepper, cinnamon, and cloves if desired. Cover with a lid and let simmer on low heat for about 1 hour. Check occasionally and add a little more water if necessary.

6. Finish the dish: When the chicken is tender and the flavors have combined, turn off the heat. Add the chopped parsley for an extra touch of freshness. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Serving suggestion

Chicken Stifado is usually served with a side of rice, but I recommend trying it with warm polenta, which will soak up the delicious sauce! You can also add some grilled vegetables or a green salad to complete the meal.

Interesting variations

If you want to make the recipe even more interesting, you can add sliced carrots or black olives for a unique taste. Additionally, if you enjoy spicy food, add a little chili pepper.

Nutritional benefits

This Chicken Stifado recipe is not only tasty but also nutritious. Chicken provides quality protein, while the vegetables add essential vitamins. Olive oil is rich in healthy fats, and the spices not only add flavor but also antioxidants.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use turkey instead of chicken? Yes, turkey is an excellent alternative, offering a slightly different but equally delicious taste.

Is this recipe suitable for people on a diet? Chicken Stifado is a good choice, especially if served with vegetables or polenta instead of rice.

How can I adapt the recipe to be vegetarian? You can replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh and add more vegetables like zucchini or eggplant.

Conclusion

Chicken Stifado is a simple yet flavorful recipe, perfect for bringing family and friends together. With each bite, you will feel the warmth and love from your kitchen. Don't forget to experiment with the ingredients and put your personal touch on this delicious recipe! Enjoy!