Dive into a vibrant and flavorful culinary adventure with this easy-to-make Chicken Stew in Green Sauce! This recipe elevates the classic chicken stew with a zesty, herbaceous green sauce that's both refreshing and deeply satisfying. Imagine tender chunks of chicken simmered in a rich broth, infused with the bright notes of cilantro, tomatillos, and jalapeños, all complemented by the earthy texture of nopales (cactus pads) and potatoes. It's a dish that's perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, offering a delicious balance of textures and tastes.
The unique blend of ingredients creates a surprisingly complex flavor profile that's both comforting and exciting. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is designed for ease and deliciousness. Ready to create this culinary masterpiece? Let's move on to the simple step-by-step instructions.
Tools Needed
- Saucepan
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Blender
- Strainer
Ingredients
- Raw Nopales
- Potatoes: 0.5 kg
- Green Tomatoes (Tomatillos): 1 kg
- Green Chilies: 2
- Chicken Breast
- Onion: 1/4
- Cilantro
- Garlic
- Salt: 1 tablespoon + to taste
- Oil
- Chicken Broth: 2 tablespoons
- Water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients
- Cut raw nopales into small pieces.
- Peel and cut potatoes into small pieces.
- Boil green tomatoes, tomatillos, and green chilies in water until they change color.
- Boil nopales in a covered saucepan until they change color. Drain and reserve.
- Cut chicken breast into small strips or pieces.
Step 2. Cook Chicken and Sauce
- Blend boiled tomatoes, chilies, onion, and cilantro until smooth.
- In a saucepan, sauté chopped garlic in oil.
- Fry the chicken until semi-cooked.
- Add the blended tomato sauce to the chicken and fry.
Step 3. Simmer Stew
- Add raw potatoes to the saucepan.
- Add chicken broth and bring to a boil. Cook until potatoes and chicken are done.
- Taste and adjust salt as needed.
Step 4. Finish and Serve
- Add the cooked nopales and stir. Simmer for another 5 minutes.
Read more: Authentic Charro Beans Recipe: South Texas Style
Tips
- For a whole chicken, adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Don't overcook the garlic; it can burn easily.
- This stew is a good option for a healthy diet; it's low in fat.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 600-700
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbs: 60-70g
- Protein: 50-60g
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the nopales?
Yes! If you can't find nopales, you can substitute them with other vegetables like green beans, zucchini, or even spinach. They'll add a different texture and flavor, but the stew will still be delicious.
2. How can I make this spicier?
Add more jalapeños to the green sauce, or include a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce. Adjust to your preferred spice level.
This easy chicken stew in green sauce offers a delightful twist on a classic comfort food, showcasing the unique flavors of nopales and a vibrant green salsa. The recipe’s simplicity makes it perfect for busy weeknights, while its rich taste will impress even the most discerning palates. Enjoy this flavorful and satisfying meal!