Chicken breast stew with peppers

Pepper stew with chicken breast: a simple, tasty recipe ideal for a quick and comforting dinner. This stew combines the rich flavors of chicken with the sweetness of peppers and onions, creating a dish that will delight both family and friends. Let's discover together how to prepare this delicacy step by step, learning a few tricks along the way.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 4 hours and 45 minutes (including marinating)
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients
- 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast (approximately 400 g)
- 1 large white onion
- 2 bell peppers (preferably red or yellow for a sweeter taste and vibrant color)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Hot paprika (optional, for an extra flavor)
- 2 tablespoons of sunflower or olive oil
- 50 ml of water
- 1 jar of homemade ketchup (approximately 200 g)

Preparing the ingredients
1. Chicken breast: Rinse the chicken breast under cold running water and cut it into long strips, about 2-3 cm wide. These strips will allow for even and quick cooking.
2. Onion: Peel the onion and wash it well. Slice it into thin rings so that it softens easily during cooking.
3. Peppers: Remove the stem and seeds from the peppers, then wash and cut them into julienne strips. This will help release the flavors and allow the vegetables to cook evenly.

Marinating
In a large bowl, layer the chicken strips, sliced onion, and peppers alternately. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and paprika (if you want a spicier taste) between the layers. Mix the ingredients well to combine the flavors. Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for 4 hours. This marinating will allow the flavors to develop and make the chicken juicier.

Cooking
1. Heating the oil: In a wok or deep skillet, add the 2 tablespoons of oil and heat it over low heat.
2. Adding the ingredients: Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken and vegetable mixture. Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, for about 20 minutes. If you notice that the dish starts to stick, you can add 50 ml of water to help with cooking.
3. Finishing: When the chicken is well cooked and the vegetables are soft, add the jar of ketchup. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes so that the sauce thickens slightly and the ingredients harmonize. Taste and adjust with salt if necessary. It is important to note that ketchup adds a sweet note, so you can decide how much salt is needed.

Serving
This pepper stew with chicken breast can be served warm, alongside a side of rice or polenta. It is an excellent choice for a comforting dinner, but also a delicious lunch for busy days. You can add a fresh green salad for a refreshing contrast.

Variations and suggestions
- For an extra flavor, you can add spices such as minced garlic, thyme, or oregano during cooking.
- If you prefer a spicy version, add a few slices of fresh chili or chili flakes.
- For a richer texture, you can add some green or black olives in the last minutes of cooking.

Nutritional benefits
This pepper stew with chicken breast is an excellent source of protein due to the chicken and is full of vitamins and antioxidants from the vegetables. Peppers are rich in vitamin C, while onions provide anti-inflammatory benefits.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use other types of meat? Yes, you can replace the chicken breast with turkey or even pork, but the cooking time will vary.
- How can I store the stew? If there are leftovers, it can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days.
- Can it be frozen? Yes, this stew can be frozen, but it is recommended to consume it within 1-2 months to maintain its flavor.

Conclusion
The pepper stew with chicken breast is a quick and delicious recipe, perfect for any occasion. With a preparation time of just 15 minutes and a marinating that intensifies the flavors, you will achieve a savory main dish that will impress. Experiment with the ingredients and adapt the recipe according to your preferences. Enjoy your meal!