Green bean and chicken dish

Green Bean and Chicken Dish - A Delicious and Comforting Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45-50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4-6

Who doesn't love a warm meal, full of flavors and vibrant colors? This green bean and chicken dish is perfect for chilly days or for those moments when you want to indulge in something tasty and healthy. The combination of juicy chicken and crunchy green beans will delight you every time. And the best part? It's a simple and quick recipe, ideal for any cook, regardless of experience level!

A Brief History of the Recipe

Green bean dishes have often been a staple in many cultures, with deep roots in family culinary traditions. Green beans are not only versatile but also packed with nutrients, being an excellent source of fiber and vitamins. Combined with chicken, we get a nutritionally balanced meal, perfect to enjoy with loved ones.

Ingredients

- 600g chicken (drumsticks or breast, as preferred)
- 1 kg green beans (yellow, fresh or frozen)
- 1 large onion
- 4 green onions
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red or yellow for extra color)
- 2 heads of fresh garlic
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 50ml oil (olive or sunflower)
- 2 bunches of fresh dill
- Vegeta (or a favorite spice mix)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Salt (to taste)

Step by Step for a Perfect Result

1. Preparing the Ingredients
Start by cleaning the chicken, washing it well under cold running water, and then cut it into suitable pieces. If using drumsticks, you can leave them whole for a more rustic presentation. Clean the onion and green onions, then chop them finely. Remove the seeds from the bell pepper and cut it into cubes.

2. Sautéing the Vegetables
In a large skillet, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the onion and green onions, sautéing them for 3-4 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant. Then, add the chopped bell pepper and continue to sauté for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Preparing the Chicken
Add the chicken pieces to the skillet. Brown them for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, so they cook evenly on all sides. Don’t forget to sprinkle a little salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.

4. Adding the Green Beans
If using fresh green beans, clean them and break them into pieces about 5 cm long. If using frozen beans, let them thaw before adding them to the skillet. Put the green beans in the skillet and add water until it covers the beans. Let the dish simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

5. Finalizing the Dish
After the green beans have cooked, add the tomato paste, stirring well. Transfer everything to a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes at 180 degrees Celsius to allow the sauce to reduce and the flavors to intensify. After removing the dish from the oven, add the cleaned and chopped garlic and the freshly chopped dill. Bake for another 5 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant.

6. Serving
This green bean and chicken dish can be served warm or cold. It is delicious alongside a slice of fresh bread or a crunchy green salad. A personal suggestion is to serve it with a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra touch of freshness!

Practical Tips

- Ingredients: Use chicken with bones for a richer flavor. If you prefer a leaner option, chicken breast is an excellent choice.
- Green Beans: You can experiment with different types of green beans, such as green or white, to vary the texture and flavor of the dish.
- Spices: Instead of Vegeta, you can add fresh herbs like basil or thyme for a unique aroma.
- Variations: Add carrots or zucchini for extra vegetables and nutrients.

Nutritional Benefits

This recipe is rich in protein due to the chicken, as well as fiber from the green beans. It is a balanced meal that can contribute to maintaining a healthy diet, providing plenty of essential vitamins and minerals. The calories for a serving are approximately 350-400, depending on the amount of oil used.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use canned green beans?
Yes, you can use canned green beans! Just make sure to rinse them well under water before adding them to the dish.

2. How can I adapt the recipe for a vegetarian diet?
Replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh and add more vegetables to create a delicious and nutritious meal.

3. What other sides go well with this dish?
This recipe pairs perfectly with a summer salad or mashed potatoes, adding extra texture and flavor to the dish.

4. How can I store leftovers?
The dish stores well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop.

I invite you to try this simple and quick green bean and chicken dish, perfect for bringing joy to your table! Enjoy your meal!