Quince stew with chicken

Quince dish with chicken - A recipe that brings the nostalgia of autumn to your plate

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4

It is autumn, and with each passing day, we are reminded of the warm and comforting scents of our childhood. This is the perfect time to prepare a quince dish with chicken, a recipe that combines the sweet and slightly sour taste of quinces with the juiciness of slow-cooked chicken. This recipe is not just a delicious meal, but also a story about memories, traditions, and beautiful moments spent with loved ones.

Necessary ingredients

- 500 g chicken meat (thighs or breast, as preferred)
- 4-5 ripe quinces
- 100 g butter + 3 tablespoons oil
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1 small onion
- 1 lemon
- 2 cups chicken broth (or water, if you don't have broth)
- Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredient details

Chicken meat is an excellent source of protein and essential nutrients. Thighs provide a richer flavor, while breast is a leaner option but equally tasty. Quinces, on the other hand, are seasonal fruits rich in vitamin C and fiber. They have a unique taste that pairs perfectly with the meat, bringing a sweet-sour aroma.

Step by step - Cooking the quince dish with chicken

1. Preparing the chicken meat
Start by cutting the chicken meat into suitable pieces. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 100 g of butter along with 3 tablespoons of oil. When the butter has melted, add the chicken and brown it on all sides until golden, about 5-7 minutes. Once the meat is well browned, remove it to a plate and set aside.

2. Preparing the quinces
Wash the quinces well, then dry them with a towel. Cut them into quarters and remove the seeds. Then, cut each quarter into thicker slices. Drizzle them with the juice of one lemon to prevent oxidation and to add a touch of acidity that will balance the sweetness.

3. Sautéing the quinces
In the same skillet where you browned the meat, add the quinces and sauté them for about 5-6 minutes until they become slightly soft and golden. Remove the quinces to a plate and set aside.

4. Preparing the sauce
If there is butter and oil left in the skillet, that's perfect. If not, add another 2 tablespoons of oil. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent. Add the sugar and continue to sauté, stirring frequently, until the sugar caramelizes, but be careful not to burn it.

5. Combining the ingredients
When the onion is caramelized, deglaze with the chicken broth. Wait for it to start boiling, then add the browned chicken. Once the meat has started to boil, add the quinces and cover the skillet. Let everything simmer on low heat for 10 minutes.

6. Thickening the sauce
In the meantime, dissolve the flour in a little cold water, mixing well to avoid lumps. Add this mixture to the skillet, stirring continuously to achieve a thicker consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Serving
Serve this quince dish with chicken hot, alongside freshly baked bread or soft polenta. The flavors combine perfectly, and the textures are a delight for the taste buds.

Chef's tip

If you want to add an extra touch, you can sprinkle some toasted nuts on top before serving. They will bring a crunchy contrast and a special flavor.

Possible variations

To vary the recipe, you can use turkey meat instead of chicken or add other vegetables, such as carrots or celery, to enrich the flavor. You can also experiment with spices like cinnamon or cloves, which pair well with quinces.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use canned quinces?
Yes, you can use canned quinces, but the flavor will be different. Make sure to drain them well before adding them to the recipe.

How can I substitute chicken broth?
If you don't have chicken broth, you can use water or vegetable broth. The flavors will be slightly different, but the dish will still be just as tasty.

What kind of bread pairs best?
A homemade, freshly baked bread with a crispy crust is ideal to accompany this savory dish.

Nutritional benefits

This dish is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Quinces are rich in antioxidants, and the combination of meat with fruit provides a perfect balance between protein and carbohydrates, ideal for a hearty and healthy meal.

I hope this quince dish with chicken will remind you of beautiful moments from your childhood and bring you joy in the kitchen. Enjoy cooking!