Mediterranean Chicken Stew is a warm, hearty dish that combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and the bright flavors of the Mediterranean. This stew is perfect for a cozy meal and offers a delicious blend of savory, tangy, and sweet notes, thanks to ingredients like tomatoes, olives, and herbs. With a base of chicken and a variety of vegetables, it’s not only nutritious but also bursting with flavor, making it a wonderful option for a family dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into chunks)
- 1 large onion (chopped)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 bell peppers (sliced)
- 1 medium zucchini (chopped)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives (pitted and halved)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
- Sauté the chicken: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
- Cook the vegetables: In the same pot, add the onions, garlic, and bell peppers. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are translucent and the peppers have softened.
- Add spices: Stir in the cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Let the spices cook with the vegetables for about 1-2 minutes to release their aromas.
- Build the stew: Add the zucchini, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and olives. Return the browned chicken to the pot and stir everything to combine.
- Simmer: Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for a bright, tangy finish. Enjoy the stew on its own or with crusty bread, rice, or couscous.
This Mediterranean Chicken Stew is best served warm and makes for great leftovers as the flavors continue to meld.
