As the weather starts to cool down, our taste buds yearn for hearty, comforting meals that warm the soul. One dish that perfectly fits the bill is salsa chicken stew, a flavorful and nutritious meal that’s sure to become a staple in your household. In this article, we’ll take you through the process of making a delicious salsa chicken stew that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
What is Salsa Chicken Stew?
Salsa chicken stew is a mouth-watering dish that combines the spicy and tangy flavors of salsa with the richness of chicken and vegetables. This stew is a twist on traditional chicken stew, with the added kick of salsa that gives it a unique and exciting flavor profile. The best part? This dish is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to your taste preferences and dietary needs.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 large red bell pepper, diced
- 2 large tomatoes, diced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can of diced tomatoes
- 1 cup of salsa (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of cumin
- 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
- 6-8 corn tortillas, for serving (optional)
Instructions
1. Heat the oil and cook the onion: In a large Dutch oven or pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it’s translucent and starting to caramelize, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and red bell pepper: Add the minced garlic and diced red bell pepper to the pot and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the pepper starts to soften.
3. Add the chicken: Add the chicken to the pot and cook until it’s browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the tomatoes and salsa: Add the diced tomatoes, canned diced tomatoes, and salsa to the pot. Stir well to combine.
5. Add the cumin and smoked paprika: Add the cumin and smoked paprika (if using) to the pot and stir to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper: Season the stew with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Simmer the stew: Reduce the heat to low and simmer the stew for 20-30 minutes, until the flavors have melded together and the chicken is tender.
8. Taste and adjust: Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning as needed.
9. Serve and garnish: Serve the stew hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro and accompanied by corn tortillas (if desired).
Tips and Variations
- Use homemade salsa: If you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own salsa from scratch using ingredients like diced tomatoes, onions, jalapenos, cilantro, and lime juice.
- Add beans or potatoes: To make the stew more substantial, try adding beans (such as black beans or kidney beans) or diced potatoes.
- Use different types of peppers: If you like a little heat in your stew, try using hotter peppers like jalapenos or serranos. If you prefer a milder flavor, try using Anaheim or poblano peppers.
- Add a splash of acidity: A squeeze of fresh lime juice can add a nice brightness to the stew.
- Make it a one-pot meal: To simplify the cooking process, try making the stew in a slow cooker or Instant Pot.
Nutritional Benefits
- High protein content: Chicken breast or thighs are an excellent source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and maintenance.
- Rich in vitamins and minerals: Tomatoes, bell peppers, and onions are all rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber.
- Antioxidant-rich: The salsa and diced tomatoes in this stew are rich in antioxidants, which can help protect against chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer.
- Low in calories: This stew is relatively low in calories, making it a great option for those watching their weight.
READ MORE: The Delicious Chorba Frik: A Traditional North African Stew