Mushroom and Chicken Stew

Mushroom and chicken breast ciulama - a traditional, comforting, and savory dish that delights the taste buds and brings warmth to every meal. This recipe, which combines the delicate flavors of mushrooms with the juiciness of chicken and the creaminess of sour cream, is perfect for a family dinner or to impress guests.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Recipe history
Ciulama is a dish that originates from traditional cuisine, appreciated for its versatility and simplicity. Over the years, each family has brought its own variations, adapting the ingredients to personal tastes and preferences. Mushroom and chicken breast ciulama is a modern reinterpretation of this classic recipe, adding extra flavor and texture.

Ingredients
- 1 chicken breast (approximately 400g, skin removed)
- 250 ml sour cream (high-fat content is ideal for a creamy texture)
- 500 g mushrooms (champignon or porcini, depending on preference)
- 1 large onion (approximately 150g, preferably white or yellow)
- 1 tablespoon flour (to thicken the sauce)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Preparation technique

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by finely chopping the onion. Wash the mushrooms well under cold running water, then slice or cube them, depending on preference. Cut the chicken breast into small pieces for even cooking and better integration into the dish.

2. Sautéing the onion
In a medium pot, add a tablespoon of oil (olive or sunflower) and sauté the chopped onion over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. The onion will become translucent and release a pleasant aroma.

3. Adding the mushrooms
After about 5 minutes of sautéing the onion, add the sliced mushrooms. Sprinkle a pinch of salt to help release the juices from the mushrooms. Cover the pot with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let the mushrooms cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Cooking the chicken
Meanwhile, in a separate pan, add a little oil and sauté the chicken pieces over medium heat. Season with salt and pepper, allowing them to brown for 5-7 minutes until golden and fully cooked. Once the chicken is ready, add it to the pot with the mushrooms and mix well.

5. Preparing the sauce
In a small bowl, combine the sour cream with the flour, mixing well to avoid lumps. Add the sour cream and flour mixture to the pot with the mushrooms and chicken. Stir well and let simmer on low heat for another 5-10 minutes until the sauce thickens. Adjust the taste with salt and pepper, as preferred.

6. Finishing the dish
When the ciulama is ready, remove it from the heat and add the chopped fresh parsley for a touch of freshness and color.

Serving
Mushroom and chicken breast ciulama is served warm, usually alongside polenta, which adds a pleasant textural contrast and enriches the flavors of the dish. If you prefer a lighter version, you can also enjoy it with a fresh green salad for an extra crunch and vitamins.

Practical tips
- Mushroom variations: You can experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or portobello, to add a distinctive note.
- Adding vegetables: You can add diced carrots or bell peppers to enrich the dish with vegetables.
- Storing leftovers: If you have leftover ciulama, you can keep it in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a little milk or water to restore its creamy consistency.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use turkey instead of chicken breast?
Yes, turkey breast can be a delicious alternative, offering a similar flavor and tender texture.

2. What type of sour cream is best for this recipe?
I recommend high-fat sour cream (at least 20%) to achieve a creamy and rich sauce.

3. Can I make ciulama without meat?
Certainly, you can turn this recipe into a vegetarian option by omitting the meat and adding more mushrooms or vegetables.

4. What can I serve with ciulama?
Polenta is traditional, but you can also add mashed potatoes or fresh bread to complete the meal.

Nutritional benefits
This recipe is rich in protein due to the chicken breast, while mushrooms contribute antioxidants and essential vitamins. Sour cream adds calcium and healthy fats, but it's important to consume it in moderation.

In conclusion, mushroom and chicken breast ciulama is a dish that will not only delight your taste buds but also bring warmth to the hearts of your loved ones. Experiment with the ingredients, personalize the recipe, and enjoy every bite! I invite you to share your impressions of this recipe and explore other traditional options that can add variety to your meals. Enjoy your meal!