Stewed chicken with vegetables

Braised Chicken with Vegetables – a classic and comforting recipe

Who doesn't love a slow-cooked dish, full of flavors and vibrant colors? The braised chicken with vegetables recipe is perfect for a family dinner or to impress friends. This recipe is not only simple and quick, but also packed with nutrients, offering a savory taste that embodies the essence of culinary comfort. Let's embark on a culinary journey step by step!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 75 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 1 kg chicken thighs (recommended with skin for a richer taste)
- 2 large potatoes (choose sweet potatoes for a sweeter note and added nutrients)
- 2 bell peppers (for vibrant color and sweetness)
- 2 cloves of garlic (adding garlic will enhance the aroma)
- 2 teaspoons paprika (can be sweet or spicy, depending on preference)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (choose extra virgin oil for additional benefits)
- 100 ml dry white wine (optional, but recommended for added depth)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)

Recipe History

Braised chicken with vegetables is a dish that has become a symbol of home-cooked meals over time. Its origins are rooted in the culinary traditions of homemakers who, with simple ingredients, managed to create delicious and nourishing dishes. This recipe captures the essence of slow cooking, where ingredients harmoniously combine to offer a comforting meal, perfect for colder days or gatherings with loved ones.

Preparing the Ingredients

1. Washing and preparing the meat: Start by washing the chicken thighs well under cold water. Make sure to remove any impurities, then let them drain well.

2. Cleaning the vegetables: Peel the potatoes and cut them into slices about 0.5 cm thick. This will allow for even and quick cooking. Cut the bell peppers in half, remove the seeds and core, then slice them into thin strips. Peel the garlic and slice it thinly to release its aroma.

Assembling the Dish

3. Arranging the ingredients: In a clay pot or a heat-resistant dish with a lid, add the chicken thighs, potato slices, bell pepper strips, and garlic slices. It is important to distribute the ingredients evenly for uniform cooking.

4. Seasoning: Sprinkle paprika, salt, and pepper over the ingredients in the pot. These spices will not only add flavor but also color the dish.

5. Adding liquids: Drizzle everything with white wine and olive oil. The oil will help achieve a tender texture, while the wine will add a refined taste.

6. Mixing: Mix the ingredients well to ensure they are all well coated with spices and liquids. Cover the pot with a lid.

Cooking in the Oven

7. Preheating the oven: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. This is the perfect time to ensure you have all the ingredients ready and the oven prepared.

8. Baking: Place the pot in the oven and let it cook for 60 minutes. The flavors will combine, and the meat will become tender and juicy. If you want a slightly browned crust, you can remove the lid in the last 10-15 minutes of cooking.

Serving

9. Final dish: Once the cooking time is over, remove the pot from the oven using kitchen gloves and let the dish cool for a few minutes. Then, serve the braised chicken with vegetables on a large platter, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a touch of freshness.

10. Serving suggestions: This dish pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad or a serving of rice or mashed potatoes. If you want to add a touch of acidity, a bottle of lemonade or a dry white wine will perfectly complement the meal.

Tips and Variations

- Ingredient variations: You can add other seasonal vegetables, such as carrots, zucchini, or onions, to diversify the taste and texture.
- Alternative spices: Experiment with herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to add a personal twist to the dish.
- Storing leftovers: If you have leftovers, keep them in airtight containers in the fridge to enjoy the next day or even to transform them into a delicious soup.

Nutritional Benefits

This braised chicken with vegetables dish is rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals. Chicken thighs provide essential proteins for the body, while vegetables bring fiber and vital nutrients. Additionally, garlic is known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, making this dish not only tasty but also healthy.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, but keep in mind that chicken breast cooks faster and can be drier. Adjust the cooking time to 30-40 minutes.

2. Is it necessary to use wine?
Wine adds a deep flavor, but if you want to avoid alcohol, you can replace it with chicken broth or water.

3. How can I make the dish spicier?
Add chili peppers or chili flakes to the spice mix.

Now that you have gone through each step of this braised chicken with vegetables recipe, you are ready to impress everyone with your culinary skills. Cooking is an art, and with each recipe, you perfect your techniques and explore flavors. Enjoy your meal!