Green bean stew with chicken

Green bean stew with chicken: A rustic recipe full of flavors

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4

Who doesn't love a warm stew, full of taste and aromas? This green bean stew recipe with chicken is not only easy to prepare but also extremely versatile. It can be enjoyed in its classic version with meat or adapted for a vegetarian option by omitting the chicken thighs.

A brief story about the recipe
The origins of stews are lost in the mists of time, being traditional dishes that have brought families together around the table. Over the years, each household has added a personal touch, resulting in a multitude of variations of this dish today. In this recipe, green beans take center stage, providing a crunchy texture and fresh taste, perfectly combined with succulent chicken.

Necessary ingredients
- 2 jars of green beans (approximately 800g)
- 4 chicken thighs
- 4 medium onions, finely chopped
- 2 large potatoes, diced
- 150g of bell peppers (you can use frozen or fresh, as preferred)
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste (for a rich flavor)
- Salt, pepper, sweet paprika
- Dried vegetables (optional, for extra flavor)
- Vegeta (or any preferred seasoning)
- Fresh herbs (parsley or dill), for garnish

Tips about the ingredients
- Green beans: Ideally, you should use fresh green beans, but canned ones from autumn are an excellent alternative. Frozen beans are another quick and convenient option.
- Chicken thighs: You can replace the thighs with chicken breast or even other types of meat, such as turkey. If you opt for the vegetarian version, you can completely exclude the meat.
- Vegetables: Potatoes are not only a staple ingredient but also a natural thickening agent for your stew. If you want an even healthier version, you can use zucchini or carrots.

Preparation techniques
1. Preparing the meat: Start by cutting the chicken thighs in half. In a large pan, heat a little oil and fry the chicken until golden brown on all sides. This step will add extra flavor to your stew. Once the chicken is ready, set it aside.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In the same pan, add the finely chopped onion and sauté over medium heat. Stir occasionally until it becomes translucent, which will take about 5-7 minutes. This is the aromatic base of your stew!

3. Adding the vegetables: Add the diced potatoes and bell peppers. Continue to sauté everything together for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften.

4. Green beans and liquid: Now is the time to add the green beans and the two cups of water. Cover the pan with a lid and let it simmer over medium heat for 20 minutes.

5. Seasoning: After 20 minutes, add the seasonings: salt, pepper, sweet paprika, and Vegeta. Then, put the fried chicken back into the pan. If you see that the sauce is too thick, you can add more water.

6. Finalizing the dish: Let the stew simmer for another 10 minutes. In the last 2 minutes, add the tomato paste to intensify the flavors.

7. Serving: Once the dish is ready, turn off the heat and sprinkle fresh herbs on top. This not only adds a touch of freshness but also an attractive appearance.

Serving suggestion
This stew pairs perfectly with a slice of fresh bread or polenta. Additionally, a green salad with fresh tomatoes can ideally complement the meal, providing a pleasant contrast of textures and flavors.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use frozen green beans? Yes, frozen beans are an excellent choice and will reduce cooking time.
- How can I adapt the recipe for a vegetarian option? Simple! Omit the chicken thighs and you can add more vegetables, such as zucchini or carrots.
- What are the alternatives to tomato paste? You can use chopped fresh tomatoes or even soy sauce for a different flavor.

Nutritional benefits
The green bean stew with chicken is not only delicious but also nutritious. Green beans are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, contributing to healthy digestion. Chicken thighs provide essential proteins for the body, while the vegetables add antioxidants and nutrients that support overall health.

Possible variations
If you want to experiment, you can add spices such as cumin or coriander, which will give an exotic taste. You can also replace the tomato paste with tomato puree or chili sauce for a spicy stew.

I conclude with a personal note: this stew reminds me of family meals when everyone gathered around the table to enjoy dishes cooked with love. I hope you enjoy every bite as much as we do! Bon appétit!