If you enjoy a delicious, hearty meal that’s super easy to prepare, you’re in for a treat! This chicken recipe features tender, flavorful chicken breast paired with vibrant vegetables and a rich, aromatic sauce. Perfect for family dinners or a cozy evening meal, this dish will leave you satisfied and eager for seconds.
Ingredients
Before you start cooking, gather your ingredients:
- Chicken breast: You’ll need about 800 grams, which serves four people (approximately 200 grams per person).
- Onion: Use one large onion, roughly 150 grams, for flavor and texture.
- Carrots: Peel and cut two medium carrots, about 200 grams total.
- Celery root: Prepare one small celery root, around 150 grams.
- Tomato sauce: You’ll need about 50 ml of tomato sauce for the recipe.
- Parsley: A handful of fresh parsley (approximately 20 grams) for a burst of freshness.
- Canned peas: One small can, around 200 grams, adds sweetness and color.
Preparation
You’ll also need some oil (regular and olive) for marinating and frying, as well as your choice of seasonings: salt, pepper, dry pepper, and paprika. Let’s get started!
Marinating
First, cut the chicken breast into portions. Then, season with oil, olive oil, salt, pepper, dry pepper, and paprika. Mix everything well and leave the chicken to marinate in the refrigerator, ideally overnight. This process enhances the flavor and tenderizes the meat.
Cooking the Chicken
Begin by coating the marinated chicken in flour. Heat a pan and fry the chicken for about 5 minutes on each side, until it’s golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
Cooking the Vegetables
In the same pan, fry the chopped onion, carrot, and celery root for about 10 minutes. Cooking the vegetables in the same pan ensures the flavors meld and create a rich, savory base for the dish.
Creating the Sauce
Now, add the tomato sauce to the pan with the vegetables. Season the mixture to taste and add water as needed. The sauce should be rich and slightly thick.
Bringing It All Together
Return the chicken to the pan and simmer it together with the vegetables and sauce for about 20 minutes. This cooking process allows the flavors to meld and the chicken to fully cook and absorb the delicious sauce.
Adding the Finishing Touches
Finally, add the chopped parsley and canned peas to the pan. Cook everything together for another 5 minutes. The peas add a pop of color and sweetness, while the parsley brightens the dish with its fresh flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This chicken dish pairs perfectly with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with:
- Rice: Steamed rice is a classic side that soaks up the flavorful sauce.
- Mashed potatoes: The creamy texture of mashed potatoes complements the dish well.
- Crusty bread: Use bread to mop up any remaining sauce on your plate!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Yes, you can definitely use chicken thighs if you prefer them. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this recipe can be made ahead of time and reheated when ready to serve. The flavors may even deepen as the dish sits.
3. Can I substitute other vegetables in this recipe?
Of course! Feel free to experiment with your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
5. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can swap the chicken for your preferred plant-based protein, such as tofu or seitan, to make the recipe vegetarian.
Enjoy your delicious homemade chicken dish! This recipe is sure to become a family favorite with its comforting flavors and ease of preparation. Happy cooking!
