Dive into the vibrant world of Spanish cuisine with our tantalizing Spanish Chicken and Saffron Stew! This hearty dish is not just a meal; it’s a culinary journey that brings the warmth of Spain right to your kitchen. Imagine succulent chicken thighs simmered to perfection in a rich, saffron-infused broth, mingling with the aromatic flavors of garlic, onion, and bell pepper. Whether you're looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself to a cozy night in, this stew is sure to become a favorite. Ready to transform your dinner routine? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Spanish
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon saffron threads
- 2 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by chopping the onion, mincing the garlic, and dicing the bell pepper. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed Dutch oven or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Place chicken thighs skin-side down and sear until golden brown, about 5-6 minutes. Flip and cook the other side for 3-4 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same pan, reduce heat to medium and add chopped onions. Sauté until translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and diced bell pepper, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.
- Crush saffron threads between your fingers and add to the chicken broth, allowing it to steep and release its vibrant color and flavor.
- Return chicken thighs to the pan, then add diced tomatoes and saffron-infused chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the pan, and let the stew cook slowly for 45-50 minutes, or until chicken is tender and falling off the bone.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. The sauce should be rich and slightly thickened.
- Serve hot, garnishing with fresh parsley if desired. Accompany with crusty bread or rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh, high-quality chicken thighs and real saffron threads for the best flavor. The quality of your ingredients can elevate the dish significantly.
- Sear the Chicken Well: Don’t rush the searing process! Taking the time to get a nice golden-brown crust on the chicken will enhance the overall flavor of the stew.
- Allow the Saffron to Steep: Crushing the saffron threads and letting them steep in the chicken broth before adding them to the stew will maximize their color and flavor.
- Adjust Cooking Time: Depending on the size of your chicken thighs, you may need to adjust the cooking time. Ensure they are tender and easily pull away from the bone for the best texture.
- Serve with Accompaniments: This stew pairs beautifully with crusty bread or fluffy rice, perfect for soaking up the rich sauce. Consider adding a side salad for a complete meal.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh flavor that complements the stew perfectly.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 110mg
