Chicken (turkey) stew with polenta

Chicken stew with polenta - A classic recipe, full of flavor and nostalgia

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Servings: 4

If there is a dish that reminds us of childhood, then chicken stew with polenta is definitely on the favorites list. A rustic, simple recipe but full of taste, chicken stew is perfect for cozy family evenings or a meal with friends. Polenta, a traditional corn dish, perfectly complements the tender and flavorful meat. Let's discover together each step of this delicious recipe!

Necessary ingredients

To prepare chicken stew with polenta, you will need the following ingredients:

For the stew:
- 500 g chicken meat (preferably thighs or breast)
- 1 bunch of green onions (about 100 g)
- 2 medium tomatoes (about 250 g)
- 1/2 bell pepper (about 100 g)
- 2 tablespoons of roasted pepper paste
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 2-3 garlic cloves
- 1 cup of water (about 250 ml)

For the polenta:
- 1 liter of water
- 300 g cornmeal
- Salt to taste

A brief history

Polenta is a traditional staple dish in many households, often associated with family meals. Its origins are lost in the mists of time, being used in various forms in many cultures. Combined with chicken stew, it becomes a true feast, and each bite will take you back to warm and joyful meals.

Preparation instructions

Step 1: Preparing the chicken stew

1. Prepare the ingredients: Start by finely chopping the green onions, dicing the tomatoes, and slicing the bell pepper. The chicken can be cut into smaller pieces for even cooking.

2. Sauté the onions: In a large skillet or pot, add a tablespoon of oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This process will intensify the flavors and provide a delicious base for the stew.

3. Add the vegetables: Put the tomatoes and bell pepper in the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The tomatoes will release their juice, and the bell pepper will add a sweet note.

4. Add the meat: Load the mixture with the chicken pieces and the roasted pepper paste. Mix well to combine all the flavors. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Simmer the stew: Add a cup of water and let the stew simmer on low heat, covered, for 20-30 minutes, until the meat is tender and well-cooked. Don't forget to stir occasionally!

6. Finish with flavors: When the meat is ready, add the crushed garlic and chopped parsley. Mix well and let it cook for a few more minutes to blend the flavors.

Step 2: Preparing the polenta

1. Boil the water: In another pot, bring 1 liter of water to a boil. Add salt to taste.

2. Add the cornmeal: When the water starts to boil, gradually add the cornmeal, stirring constantly with a whisk or wooden spoon. This is an essential step to avoid lumps.

3. Cook the polenta: Continue to stir the polenta on low heat for 15-20 minutes, until it thickens and easily pulls away from the sides of the pot. Well-cooked polenta is creamy and has a pleasant texture.

4. Serve: Once the polenta is ready, you can either place it in a bowl or slice it, depending on your preference.

Serving

Serve the chicken stew hot, alongside the steaming polenta. You can add a garnish of fresh parsley on top for a nice appearance and an extra flavor boost. This recipe pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or pickles, which add a contrast of flavors.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use turkey meat instead?
Absolutely! Turkey meat is an excellent alternative and will cook just as well.

How can I make the polenta creamier?
For a creamier polenta, you can add a cube of butter or a little milk at the end of cooking.

What drinks pair well with this recipe?
Such a flavorful dish pairs perfectly with a dry white wine or a cold blonde beer, but also with a fruit compote or herbal tea.

Nutritional benefits

Chicken meat is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for growth and tissue repair. Tomatoes and bell peppers provide a rich supply of vitamin C, while polenta offers complex carbohydrates, making it a good source of energy. This recipe is not only tasty but also nutritious!

Possible variations

- You can add additional vegetables to the stew, such as carrots or zucchini, to intensify the flavor and enhance the nutritional value.
- If you prefer a spicy taste, add a little chili pepper or paprika to the stew.
- For a special touch, you can replace the polenta with mashed potatoes or quinoa.

Personal note

A trick I've learned over the years is to add a teaspoon of balsamic vinegar to the stew at the end. This will enhance the flavors and give a depth to the dish.

I hope this chicken stew with polenta recipe inspires you to try it at home. Enjoy your meal!