This creamy chicken and vegetable stew is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s packed with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce. With the warmth of curry and paprika, the dish offers a perfect balance of spice and creaminess, making it a delicious option for a cozy meal. The combination of oatmeal, eggs, and sour cream creates a satisfying texture, while the cheese adds an extra layer of richness. Topped with fresh parsley and spring onions, this stew is not only nourishing but also visually appealing. Ideal for a hearty dinner, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite.
Preparation Time
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 bunch of parsley, chopped
- Water (enough to cover the ingredients)
- 1 chicken fillet
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Curry powder, to taste
- Paprika, to taste
- 1 onion, chopped
- Oil, for cooking
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 10 grams of butter
- 1 carrot, grated
- 1/2 cup oatmeal
- 1 tomato
- 2 eggs
- 100 grams of sour cream
- 1 bunch of spring onions, chopped
- 100 grams of cheese, grated
Directions
-
Prepare the Parsley:
- Rinse the parsley thoroughly and chop it finely. Set aside for garnish at the end.
-
Prepare the Chicken:
- Dice the chicken fillet into small cubes.
- Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, curry powder, and paprika to taste. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
-
Cook the Chicken:
- In a large pot, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Add the seasoned chicken fillet to the pot and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
-
Add Vegetables and Oatmeal:
- Add the grated carrot to the pot and stir to combine with the chicken and onions.
- Stir in the 1/2 cup of oatmeal, mixing it evenly throughout the mixture.
- Pour in enough hot water to cover the ingredients, then bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and cook for 15 minutes, allowing the oatmeal to soften and absorb the flavors.
-
Prepare the Tomato:
- While the stew is cooking, blanch the tomato by pouring hot water over it and letting it sit for about 10 minutes.
- Peel the tomato, then dice it into small pieces.
- Add the diced tomato to the pot, stirring it in well.
-
Add Eggs and Sour Cream:
- In a bowl, beat the 2 eggs with a pinch of salt.
- Add the beaten eggs and 100 grams of sour cream to the pot, stirring gently to combine. The eggs will help thicken the stew and add a creamy texture.
-
Cook and Finish:
- Add the chopped spring onions to the pot, mixing them in thoroughly.
- Cover the pot again and cook for another 10 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
- Add the grated cheese on top, then cover the pot again and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the stew is creamy and well-combined.
-
Serve:
- Once the stew is ready, garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve the stew hot, accompanied by crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a more substantial meal.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of crusty bread or pita to soak up the creamy sauce.
- This stew pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, adding a light, crunchy contrast to the rich stew.
- For a more filling meal, serve the stew over steamed rice or couscous to balance out the textures and flavors.
Cooking Tips
- Adjusting Spices: Feel free to adjust the curry powder and paprika to suit your personal taste. If you prefer a milder dish, use less curry powder or omit the chili.
- Consistency: If you prefer a thicker stew, you can add a bit more oatmeal or reduce the amount of water added.
- Dairy Alternatives: For a dairy-free version, substitute the sour cream with a plant-based cream or coconut milk, and use dairy-free cheese.
Nutritional Benefits
- Chicken: A great source of lean protein, chicken supports muscle growth, tissue repair, and boosts overall energy levels.
- Spinach: High in vitamins A, C, and K, spinach promotes healthy bones, improves immunity, and supports healthy vision.
- Carrots: Rich in beta-carotene, carrots support eye health and skin health, while providing fiber for digestive health.
- Oatmeal: Oatmeal is a great source of soluble fiber, which can help lower cholesterol and support heart health.
- Cheese: Provides calcium, which is essential for bone health, as well as protein for muscle repair.
Dietary Information
- Gluten-free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those following a gluten-free diet.
- High in protein: Thanks to the chicken and eggs, this stew is a rich source of protein.
- Low in carbs: The oatmeal provides fiber without a high carbohydrate load, making this recipe suitable for low-carb diets.
- Dairy: Contains dairy (sour cream and cheese), so it may not be suitable for lactose-intolerant individuals or those following a dairy-free diet.
Storage
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- The stew can also be frozen for up to 1 month. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
- Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Conclusion
This creamy chicken and vegetable stew is a rich, flavorful, and nutritious dish that makes a hearty meal for any occasion. Packed with tender chicken, vegetables, and creamy elements, it’s a perfect balance of comfort and health. The blend of spices adds a warm and inviting flavor, making it a wonderful choice for cozy dinners with family or friends. The dish is versatile, easily adjustable to personal tastes, and can be enjoyed as a stand-alone meal or served with sides to enhance the experience.
5 Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use a different type of meat in this recipe? Yes, you can substitute the chicken with turkey or even lean beef if you prefer.
-
Can I make this stew ahead of time? Absolutely! This stew can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
-
Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, you can use any type of cheese that melts well, such as cheddar or gouda, for a different flavor.
-
Is there a way to make this stew spicier? Yes, you can add more chili pepper or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the stew to increase the spice level.
-
Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Yes, you can substitute the chicken with plant-based protein like tempeh or tofu to make the stew vegetarian-friendly.