Savory Chicken and Chorizo Stew with Butter Beans
This hearty Chicken and Chorizo Stew is a delightful blend of flavors that showcases the richness of Spanish cuisine. The raw chorizo sausage infuses the dish with a smoky, spicy depth, while tender chicken pieces simmer in a thick, savory sauce. Butter beans add creaminess and a satisfying texture, making this dish perfect for a cozy dinner. Topped with fresh parsley and served with crusty bread, this stew brings warmth and comfort to any table.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
chicken pieces
4 (drumsticks and thighs are good)
smoked paprika
1 teaspoon (for seasoning)
olive oil
1 tablespoon (for cooking)
raw chorizo sausage
100 g (cut into bite-sized pieces)
onion
1 (finely diced)
garlic
2 cloves (crushed)
parsley
1 bunch (chopped, plus extra for garnish)
chopped tomatoes
300 g (canned or fresh)
butter beans
400 g (drained and rinsed)
thyme
1 sprig (fresh)
bay leaf
1 (for seasoning)
salt and pepper
to taste (for seasoning)
Instructions
1
Sprinkle the chicken pieces with smoked paprika, ensuring they are evenly coated.
2
In a heavy casserole pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces and brown them on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3
In the same pot, add the chorizo pieces. Cook until they release their oil and begin to brown, about 3-4 minutes.
4
Add the finely diced onion to the pot and cook over low heat for about 5 minutes until softened and translucent.
5
Stir in the crushed garlic and a tablespoon of chopped parsley, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
6
Pour in the chopped tomatoes and add the butter beans. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
7
If the mixture seems too thick, add a splash of water to reach your desired consistency.
8
Return the browned chicken to the pot, along with the sprig of thyme and bay leaf. Stir to incorporate.
9
Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for about 30 minutes.
10
After 30 minutes, remove the lid and allow the stew to simmer for an additional 15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your liking.
11
Just before serving, stir in a generous pinch of chopped parsley for freshness. Serve warm with crusty bread and a fresh salad.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Chicken and Chorizo Stew with Butter Beans?
It is a hearty Spanish-inspired dish featuring tender chicken, smoky chorizo, and creamy butter beans in a thick tomato-based sauce.
Which chicken cuts are recommended for this stew?
Drumsticks and thighs are ideal as they remain juicy and flavorful during the simmering process.
Do I have to use raw chorizo?
Raw chorizo is preferred because it releases flavorful, smoky oils when browned, which seasons the entire base of the stew.
Can I substitute butter beans with another type of bean?
Yes, you can use other white beans like cannellini or Great Northern beans, or even chickpeas, as a substitute.
What is the general flavor profile of this dish?
The dish offers a rich, smoky, and savory flavor profile with a slight spicy kick from the chorizo and smoked paprika.
How do I thicken the stew sauce?
The sauce thickens naturally during the final 15 minutes of simmering when the lid is removed.
Is this Chicken and Chorizo stew gluten-free?
This stew is naturally gluten-free, provided that your chorizo and spices are certified gluten-free.
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, but be aware that chicken breast cooks faster and may become slightly drier than dark meat if simmered for too long.
What side dishes pair well with this stew?
It is traditionally served with crusty bread to soak up the sauce and a fresh green salad to balance the richness.
How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Is this stew freezer-friendly?
Yes, this stew freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Why is browning the chicken an important step?
Browning creates a Maillard reaction, which adds a deep savory complexity to the meat and the overall sauce.
What should I do if the stew is too thick?
If the consistency is too thick for your preference, simply stir in a splash of water or chicken broth.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh thyme?
Yes, use approximately one-third of a teaspoon of dried thyme to replace the single fresh sprig.
How should I prepare the garlic for this recipe?
The garlic should be crushed or finely minced to ensure it releases its aroma and blends into the sauce.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned chopped tomatoes?
Yes, you can substitute 300g of fresh, ripe chopped tomatoes for the canned version.
What is the purpose of the bay leaf?
The bay leaf adds a subtle herbal depth and fragrance that helps balance the heavy fats of the meat.
Is this recipe suitable for a dairy-free diet?
Yes, this recipe is entirely dairy-free.
How can I increase the spiciness of the stew?
You can add a pinch of dried chili flakes or use hot smoked paprika instead of the standard variety.
Should I rinse the butter beans before adding them?
Yes, it is best to drain and rinse canned butter beans to remove excess sodium and the starchy liquid.
Can I prepare this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, brown the meats and onions in a pan first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Can I make this in a pressure cooker or Instant Pot?
Yes, after browning the meat and aromatics, pressure cook the mixture for about 15 minutes with a natural release.
What type of oil is best for cooking this stew?
Olive oil is recommended as it complements the Mediterranean and Spanish flavors of the dish.
How much parsley is used in the recipe?
The recipe uses one bunch of chopped parsley, divided between the cooking phase and the final garnish.
Can I add extra vegetables to this stew?
Certainly; bell peppers, spinach, or kale are excellent additions that work well with the existing flavor profile.
How do I prepare the chorizo before cooking?
Cut the raw chorizo sausage into bite-sized pieces or coins so they brown evenly and are easy to eat.
Do I need to add a lot of salt to this dish?
Salt and pepper should be added to taste, but be cautious as chorizo and canned tomatoes often already contain sodium.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe typically provides 4 generous servings.
What is the best type of pot to use?
A heavy-bottomed casserole pot or a Dutch oven is ideal for maintaining a consistent simmer.
Can I make this dish a day in advance?
Yes, like many stews, the flavors often deepen and improve if prepared a day ahead and reheated gently.