Chicken with dill and mushrooms

Chicken with dill and mushrooms on a bed of rice – a delicious and comforting recipe, perfect for a family dinner or to impress guests. This recipe combines the delicate flavors of chicken with the freshness of mushrooms and dill, offering a meal full of taste and color. Let's discover together how to prepare it!

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

Ingredients

- 1 chicken or turkey breast (approximately 500 g)
- 1 kg mushrooms (choose fresh mushrooms like champignon or porcini for a more intense flavor)
- 1 bell pepper (red or yellow for a pop of color)
- 1 white onion
- 1 red onion
- 1 carrot
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil (choose a good quality oil for a richer taste)
- 1 teaspoon curry powder (optional, but adds an exotic touch)
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Vegeta (or another natural seasoning)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 cup long-grain rice (approximately 200 g)
- 1 knob of butter (for a creamy taste)
- Meat broth (or water, depending on preference)

The story behind the recipe

This chicken with dill and mushrooms recipe is inspired by culinary traditions that emphasize the use of fresh and flavorful ingredients. Dill, with its distinct aroma, is often used in meat dishes, adding a touch of freshness. Mushrooms, rich in nutrients, provide a wonderful texture and subtle flavor, perfectly complementing the chicken. The combination of these ingredients makes this dish not only tasty but also healthy.

Step by step: How to prepare chicken with dill and mushrooms

1. Preparing the meat: Start by cutting the chicken or turkey breast into evenly sized cubes. This will ensure even cooking. Place the cubes in a bowl, add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, pepper, curry powder (if you choose to use it), and paprika. Mix well to coat the meat with the spices. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate to marinate overnight. This is an essential step, as marinating helps intensify the flavors.

2. Preparing the vegetables: The next day, take the bowl with the meat out of the fridge. Finely chop the white and red onions, slice the mushrooms, and grate the carrot on a fine grater. The bell pepper is cut into small cubes. These vegetables will add not only flavor but also color to the dish.

3. Sauté the vegetables: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the white and red onions, sautéing until they become translucent. Add the bell pepper and carrot and continue to sauté for another 5-7 minutes. These vegetables will provide a flavorful base for your chicken.

4. Add the chicken: Once the vegetables are cooked, add the marinated chicken cubes and sauté everything together for 10-12 minutes, until the meat is lightly browned. This is the moment when the flavors combine and the chicken becomes delicious.

5. Include the mushrooms: After the chicken is nearly cooked, add the sliced mushrooms. Mix well and let it simmer for another 5 minutes, until the mushrooms release their juice. They will give a special flavor to the dish.

6. Add the final flavors: Pour the soy sauce over the mixture in the skillet, add the chopped dill and parsley. Mix well. These fresh herbs will add a note of freshness and a vibrant taste. If the mixture is too thick, you can thin it with a little meat broth, letting it simmer for a few minutes on low heat.

7. Preparing the rice: Meanwhile, in another pot, bring double the amount of meat broth (approximately 2 cups for 1 cup of rice) to a boil. When the broth starts to boil, add salt, the juice of one lemon, and the rice, which you have sautéed separately in a little olive oil. Cover the pot with aluminum foil and let it cook on low heat for 15-20 minutes, until the rice is cooked.

8. Finishing the dish: When the rice is ready, add a knob of butter for a creamy taste. Mix well. Check the flavor of the chicken stew and add spices if necessary.

9. Serving: Serve the chicken stew with dill and mushrooms on a warm bed of rice. You can garnish with a few fresh dill leaves or lemon slices for an attractive appearance. This combination not only looks good but also satisfies all the senses.

Useful tips

- Variations of ingredients: You can experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or portobello, to add a different taste. You can also add vegetables such as zucchini or eggplant to vary the recipe.
- Tricks for perfect rice: If you want even more flavorful rice, you can add some spices like ginger or ground garlic to the boiling water.
- Serving suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with a glass of dry white wine or fresh lemonade. Additionally, a green salad with yogurt and dill dressing can perfectly complement the meal.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of meat? Yes, this recipe can easily be adapted to use pork or veal, depending on your preferences.
2. What else can I add to the stew? You can add vegetables like peas, green beans, or zucchini, depending on the season and preferences.
3. How can I make the recipe spicier? You can add chili peppers or chili sauce for an extra kick.

Nutritional benefits

This recipe is rich in protein due to the chicken, and mushrooms are an excellent source of fiber and antioxidants. Dill and parsley not only add flavor but also essential vitamins, such as vitamin C and B vitamins. Rice is a good source of carbohydrates, providing the energy needed for an active day.

In conclusion, chicken with dill and mushrooms is an excellent choice for a tasty and healthy meal. By making this recipe, you will not only enjoy a delicious dish but also bring a touch of joy to your kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, put a smile on your face, and let's get cooking!