Peas with chicken

Pea and chicken dish is a classic recipe with a comforting aroma and a rich history in traditional cuisine. This simple and delicious recipe is perfect for a family dinner or to impress friends at a festive meal. Additionally, it is an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy a healthy main course, considering that peas are rich in protein and fiber, while chicken provides an excellent source of lean meat.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 2 chicken thighs (or chicken breast, according to preference)
- 1 jar of peas (approximately 400 g, drained)
- 1 medium onion
- 1 bell pepper (preferably a colored one for a vibrant look)
- 1 tablespoon of flour
- 200 g of tomato puree or paste (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 bunch of fresh dill (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. Preparing the meat
Start by washing the chicken thighs well under cold running water, then you can cut them into smaller pieces if you want even cooking. If using chicken breast, make sure to cut it into equal-sized pieces for even cooking.

2. Boiling the meat
Place the chicken in a large pot and cover it with water. Add a teaspoon of salt and let it boil over medium heat. Once the water starts to boil, skim the broth to remove impurities. This step will ensure a clean and tasty sauce.

3. Adding the vegetables
While the meat is boiling, chop the onion and bell pepper into small cubes. These vegetables will add flavor and texture to your dish. When the meat is almost cooked (about 25-30 minutes), add the onion and bell pepper to the pot. Cover with a lid and let it boil together for 10 minutes.

4. Including the tomatoes
After the vegetables have softened, it’s time to add the tomato puree or paste. Stir well to combine the flavors and let it boil for 5-10 minutes. This will enrich the sauce with a vibrant color and delicious taste.

5. Adding the peas
Drain the peas from the jar and add them to the pot. The peas are already cooked, so they won’t need much cooking time. Let them simmer for 5 minutes to heat through and combine with the other ingredients.

6. Thickening the sauce
In a small bowl, mix the flour with a little cold water to form a smooth paste. This will help thicken the sauce. Add the flour mixture to the pot and stir well. Let it boil for another 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.

7. Seasoning
Add thyme, dill, salt, and pepper to taste. These herbs will give your dish a fresh and aromatic flavor. Stir well and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes for the flavors to meld.

8. Serving
Once the dish is ready, you can serve it hot, alongside a side of rice or fresh bread. Personally, I like to add a green salad on the side for a fresh contrast.

Serving suggestions:
You can serve the pea and chicken dish with a dollop of sour cream on top or with a dozen green olives for an extra burst of flavor.

Possible variations:
If you want to try something different, you can add diced carrots or potatoes to make the dish heartier. You can also use grilled chicken, pre-cooked, for a smoky flavor.

Nutritional benefits:
This recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Peas are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and vitamins, while chicken provides lean protein, essential for a balanced diet. A serving of this dish contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on how you choose to serve it.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen peas?
Yes, you can use frozen peas, just make sure to add them at the end of the cooking process so they don’t overcook.

2. How can I vary the spices?
Instead of thyme and dill, you can use oregano or basil to give the dish a different note.

3. Is this dish good to prepare in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare this dish a day ahead and reheat it on the day of serving. The taste will be even better as the flavors meld together.

The pea and chicken dish is undoubtedly a recipe that brings comfort and joy to every meal. So, I wish you good appetite and success in preparing this tasty recipe!