Spanish Chicken Drumsticks Stew is a hearty and flavorful dish that captures the essence of traditional Spanish cuisine. This warm and comforting stew infuses juicy chicken with rich spices and vegetables, making it an effortless choice for family dinners or gatherings. The combination of tender drumsticks simmered in a robust tomato-based sauce creates an irresistible aroma that will leave your taste buds craving more. Whether served alongside crusty bread or over a bed of rice, this stew offers a delightful way to experience the vibrant flavors of Spain right in your own kitchen.
Why We Love This Spanish Chicken Drumsticks Stew Recipe
What stands out about this Spanish Chicken Drumsticks Stew is its simplicity and depth of flavor. It combines accessible ingredients to create an extraordinary dish that’s rich in character. The tender chicken absorbs the various seasonings, while the olives and bay leaves contribute a unique twist that enhances the overall taste. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights as it is straightforward yet rewarding. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that evokes warmth and togetherness, making it ideal for gatherings with friends and family. You’ll love how the home-cooked goodness fills your kitchen with enticing scents, inviting everyone to come to the table.
Ingredients about Spanish Chicken Drumsticks Stew
To make this delightful stew, you will need several key ingredients that work together to create a sumptuous dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
List of ingredients with measurements
- 2 pounds bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons sazon seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 yellow onion (chopped)
- 1 green bell pepper (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 pound baby potatoes (halved)
- 1 cup pimento-stuffed olives
- 2 bay leaves
- A small bunch of parsley (plus extra chopped for garnish)
How to Make Spanish Chicken Drumsticks Stew Directions
Getting started on your Spanish Chicken Drumsticks Stew is easy and requires just a few steps. First, heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat and pour in the olive oil. While the oil heats, take the chicken pieces and season them with sazon seasoning, oregano, kosher salt, and black pepper. Make sure each piece is well-coated for the most flavor.
Once the oil is shimmering, add the seasoned chicken to the pan. Sear the chicken pieces for about 5-7 minutes, turning them occasionally until all sides are beautifully golden brown. However, avoid cooking them all the way through at this stage. After browning, remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.
Next, in the same pan, add the chopped yellow onion and green bell pepper. Cook these for about 3-4 minutes or until they start to soften. This will create a delightful base for your stew. Then, add the minced garlic and stir for another minute. You want the garlic to release its wonderful aroma but avoid browning it.
Now, it’s time to enhance the mixture. Add the tomato paste and smoked paprika, stirring until the mixture develops a rich red hue. This will add depth to your stew and a tantalizing flavor. Pour in the tomato sauce and chicken broth, stirring to combine everything smoothly.
Return the seared chicken to the pan, along with the halved baby potatoes and pimento-stuffed olives. Toss in the bay leaves and a small bunch of parsley to infuse the dish with herbal notes.
Bring the entire mixture to a gentle simmer and cover the pot with a lid, slightly ajar. Allow the stew to cook for about 25-30 minutes. This step is essential as it lets the chicken cook through, the potatoes become tender, and the sauce thickens beautifully.
After cooking, remove the pan from heat, letting it sit for about 5 minutes. This resting time helps to settle the flavors. Before serving, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a fresh finish.
How to Serve Spanish Chicken Drumsticks Stew
Serving your Spanish Chicken Drumsticks Stew is just as important as making it. You want to present this dish in a way that showcases its vibrant colors and delightful texture. A bowl of this rich stew can be a centerpiece for a casual family dinner or a more elegant affair.
Consider pairing the stew with crusty rustic bread. The bread’s texture complements the stew perfectly, allowing you to soak up the delicious sauce. You can also serve it over a bed of fluffy white rice to absorb all the flavors. The choice of sides can elevate the experience even more.
Garnish each serving with additional chopped parsley to add a pop of color. This not only enhances the presentation but also brings a fresh aroma to the dish. If you have some citrus on hand, like lemon or lime, a squeeze of juice can brighten the flavors even further.
Make sure to offer extra olives on the side for those who want to enjoy an additional burst of flavor. With all these elements combined, your Spanish Chicken Drumsticks Stew is not just a meal; it’s an experience.
Expert Tips: Spanish Chicken Drumsticks Stew
Creating the best Spanish Chicken Drumsticks Stew involves a few key tips to enhance the overall flavor and presentation. Firstly, don’t rush the browning process of the chicken. Take your time to achieve a nice golden color as this contributes to the rich flavor of the stew.
When it comes to seasoning, feel free to adjust the amount of sazon and smoked paprika to suit your taste preferences. These spices are essential for that authentic Spanish flavor, but balancing them to match your palate can make your dish even more enjoyable.
Using fresh herbs can elevate your dish significantly. If you have fresh parsley, thyme, or even basil available, consider adding them for an aromatic finish. Fresh herbs provide more vibrant flavors compared to dried ones.
If you want to add more vegetables to the stew, you can include carrots, zucchini, or peas. These options will not only enhance the health factor but also add more colors and textures.
Finally, let your stew rest after cooking. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together perfectly, making each bite more delicious.
How to Store Spanish Chicken Drumsticks Stew
If you find yourself with leftovers, storing your Spanish Chicken Drumsticks Stew is simple. Allow the stew to cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, consider freezing the stew. It’s best to use freezer-safe containers or resealable plastic bags. When freezing, make sure to remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. You can keep the stew frozen for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to serve the leftovers, thaw the stew overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until it’s heated through. This way, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of your Spanish Chicken Drumsticks Stew even days after making it.
Variation of Spanish Chicken Drumsticks Stew
Adding your personal touch to the Spanish Chicken Drumsticks Stew can make each experience unique. One popular variation is to incorporate chorizo sausage into the mix. Adding sliced chorizo during the initial cooking stage enhances the stew’s flavor, giving it a spicy kick that complements the chicken.
You may also choose to replace the baby potatoes with sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile. Sweet potatoes add a touch of sweetness while still being hearty and satisfying.
For a burst of fresh flavor, consider adding some chopped spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking. This not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds a lovely green color.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you might mix in a little cornstarch dissolved in water toward the end of cooking. This will give your stew a heartier texture without compromising the flavor.
Playing with various spices can also yield delightful results. Experimenting with cumin, coriander, or even a touch of cayenne can create an exciting new twist that surprises your family and friends.
FAQ
What is Spanish Chicken Drumsticks Stew?
Spanish Chicken Drumsticks Stew is a hearty dish that features chicken cooked slowly with vegetables, spices, olives, and a rich tomato-based sauce. It’s a comfort food that embodies the flavors of traditional Spanish cooking.
How long does it take to cook Spanish Chicken Drumsticks Stew?
The total cooking time for Spanish Chicken Drumsticks Stew is approximately 30-35 minutes. You’ll first sear the chicken, then let it simmer with other ingredients to allow the flavors to meld.
Can I use boneless chicken for this stew?
While bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks provide additional flavor and richness, you can use boneless chicken as a substitute. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time since boneless chicken cooks faster.
What can I serve with Spanish Chicken Drumsticks Stew?
This stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or served over white rice. Feel free to add a side salad or steamed vegetables to complete the meal.
Is Spanish Chicken Drumsticks Stew freezer-friendly?
Yes, Spanish Chicken Drumsticks Stew can be frozen. Store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag, and it can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months.
With this engaging recipe, you’ll be well-equipped to prepare a delightful Spanish Chicken Drumsticks Stew that you and your loved ones will adore!
Spanish Chicken Drumsticks Stew
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 pounds bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks Bone-in for added flavor.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons sazon seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup yellow onion, chopped
- 1 cup green bell pepper, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Base Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 cups chicken broth
Additional Ingredients
- 1 pound baby potatoes, halved
- 1 cup pimento-stuffed olives
- 2 ea bay leaves
- 1 small bunch parsley, plus extra chopped for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat and pour in the olive oil.
- Season the chicken pieces with sazon seasoning, oregano, kosher salt, and black pepper.
- Once the oil is shimmering, add the seasoned chicken to the pan and sear for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove the chicken and set aside.
Cooking Base
- In the same pan, add the chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking for about 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and stir for another minute.
- Incorporate tomato paste and smoked paprika, stirring until the mixture develops a rich color.
- Stir in the tomato sauce and chicken broth.
Combine and Simmer
- Return the seared chicken to the pan along with halved baby potatoes and pimento-stuffed olives.
- Add bay leaves and parsley.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, cover with a lid slightly ajar, and cook for about 25-30 minutes.
Serving
- Let the stew sit for about 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with crusty bread or over white rice.
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