Before we dive into the rich and flavorful world of Slow Cooker Spanish Chicken Stew, let’s consider what pairs wonderfully with this dish.
- Rice or Quinoa: A bed of fluffy rice or nutty quinoa complements the stew perfectly, soaking up those delicious juices.
- Crusty Bread: There’s nothing quite like tearing into a rustic loaf. It’s perfect for sopping up every last drop of stew.
- Simple Greens: A light salad of mixed greens with a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar balances the hearty stew.
- Spanish Wine: A glass of Tempranillo or Garnacha elevates the dining experience. The wine’s berry notes resonate beautifully with the stew’s flavors.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables adds an extra layer of flavor and color to your meal.
Hello, fellow food enthusiast! I can’t wait to share my experience with a dish that has become a staple in my household: Slow Cooker Spanish Chicken Stew. As a busy dietitian and eager cook, I know the importance of meals that are both flavorful and straightforward.
This stew delivers on all fronts. I promise it will charm your taste buds while requiring minimal effort on your part. Are you ready to discover a dish that will warm your heart and fill your stomach? Let’s jump into it!
What is Slow Cooker Spanish Chicken Stew?
Slow Cooker Spanish Chicken Stew is a hearty and wholesome dish that combines succulent chicken with the vibrant flavors of Spanish cuisine. Think juicy chicken thighs bathed in a rich tomato sauce, infused with spices, herbs, and the unique flavor of chorizo sausage. It simmers all day, melding all these delicious elements into a comforting meal.
Traditionally, Spanish stews are known for their use of fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and a touch of smokiness. This recipe stays true to that heritage while making it incredibly simple for busy cooks. You toss the ingredients into a slow cooker, and let time do its magic.
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What Makes This Recipe Different from Other Slow Cooker Spanish Chicken Stews?
You might wonder, “What sets this stew apart from others?” Well, I’ve put together a few key elements that make it unique.
- Ingredient Quality: The recipe emphasizes using high-quality ingredients like good olive oil and authentic cured chorizo.
- Balanced Flavors: The combination of sweet smoked paprika and earthy cumin creates a well-rounded taste profile that is both comforting and intriguing.
- Textural Variety: Including both chicken and chorizo offers a delightful mix of textures – tender chicken and robust sausage add depth to the stew.
- Fresh Vegetables: Adding bell peppers and olives at the end brightens the dish, making each bite a playful experience.
- Easy Cleanup: One-pot cooking means less hassle with pots and pans. The slow cooker is your best friend!
How Does It Taste?
Imagine a dish that celebrates the daring tastes of Spain, and you’ve hit the nail on the head with this stew. It’s rich, savory, and mildly spicy, with smoky undertones from the paprika and chorizo. The fresh garlic and onion lay a strong foundation, while the bright notes from the lemon zest and peppers elevate it to a whole new level. Each spoonful is a journey through comforting warmth and a hint of adventure.
Ingredients You’ll Need to Make This Dish
For the Slow Cook:
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil: Essential for depth.
- 2 tsp Smoked Sweet Paprika: Packs a flavor punch.
- 1/2 tsp Crushed Red Chili Flakes (optional): For mild heat if desired.
- 2 tsp Ground Cumin Powder: Earthy flavor enhancer.
- 800 g (28 oz) Crushed Canned Tomatoes: Provides the stew base.
- 3 Cloves Fresh Garlic: Minced for maximum flavor.
- 1 Large Onion: Roughly chopped.
- 2 tbsp Rich Tomato Paste: Deepens the tomato flavor.
- 2 tsp Dried Mediterranean Oregano: Adds herbaceous notes.
- 225 g (8 oz) Cured Chorizo Sausage: Sliced into hearty chunks.
- 1 kg (2.2 lb) Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: The heart of the dish.
- 1/2 tsp Sea Salt: Adjust to your preference.
To Finish:
- 3 Orange Bell Peppers: Chopped into generous chunks.
- Zest of 1 Lemon: Fresh citrusy lift at the end (optional but recommended).
- 150 g (5 oz) Pitted Olives of Your Choice: Green or black work wonderfully.
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop your onion, mince the garlic, and slice the chorizo. Having everything prepped makes the cooking process smoother.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base for the stew.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Transfer the sautéed aromatics to your slow cooker. Then add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, and red chili flakes. Stir until everything is well mixed.
Step 4: Add the Chicken and Chorizo
Now it’s time to introduce the chicken thighs and chorizo into the pot. Nestle the chicken in the mixture, ensuring it’s well-coated with the sauce. Sprinkle with sea salt, adjusting for your taste.
Step 5: Cover and Cook
Cover your slow cooker. Set it on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. This is where the magic happens. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors develop.
Step 6: Add Final Ingredients
About 30 minutes before serving, add the chopped orange bell peppers and olives. Stir them in and let them heat through. The peppers add a delightful crunch.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Once the cooking time is up, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve in bowls, and don’t forget to add the lemon zest for that bright kick. Pair with your chosen side, and enjoy!
Tips & Tricks for Making Slow Cooker Spanish Chicken Stew
As someone who has trialed this stew numerous times, I’ve gathered some tips to help you maximize your experience:
- Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for thighs over breasts. They stay moist and tender during long cooking times.
- Fresh Spices: If you can, use fresh spices. They significantly enhance the flavor compared to older spices that may have lost their potency.
- Customize Heat Levels: Adjust crushed red chili flakes based on your preference. If you like it spicier, feel free to add more!
- Let it Rest: If you can, let the stew sit after cooking. The flavors deepen with a little time before serving.
- Experiment with Toppings: Consider adding a dollop of sour cream or avocado slices for extra creaminess.
Nutrition Information
This dish is not just delicious; it also packs a nutritional punch. Here’s a rough breakdown per serving:
- Calories: Approximately 450
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 6g
These values can vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes, so adjust according to your needs!
How Do I Store This Dish?
Leftovers? No problem! Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can stay in the fridge for about three days. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Properly sealed in freezer-safe containers, it can last up to three months.
What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Slow Cooker Spanish Chicken Stew?
Flexibility is key in the kitchen. Here’s a list of substitutes you can use:
- Chicken Breasts: Instead of thighs, skinless breasts work too. Just watch the cooking time; they cook faster.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with chickpeas or lentils for a plant-based version.
- Other Sausages: Swap chorizo with smoked sausage or even tofu for a different flavor note.
- Different Peppers: Use whatever bell peppers are on sale; red or yellow can be great alternatives.
- Add More Veggies: Incorporate zucchini or carrots for extra nutrition and flavor.
Slow Cooker Spanish Chicken Stew
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop your onion, mince the garlic, and slice the chorizo. Having everything prepped makes the cooking process smoother.
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base for the stew.
- Transfer the sautéed aromatics to your slow cooker. Then add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, and red chili flakes. Stir until everything is well mixed.
- Now it’s time to introduce the chicken thighs and chorizo into the pot. Nestle the chicken in the mixture, ensuring it’s well-coated with the sauce. Sprinkle with sea salt, adjusting for your taste.
- Cover your slow cooker. Set it on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. This is where the magic happens. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors develop.
- About 30 minutes before serving, add the chopped orange bell peppers and olives. Stir them in and let them heat through. The peppers add a delightful crunch.
- Once the cooking time is up, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve in bowls, and don’t forget to add the lemon zest for that bright kick. Pair with your chosen side, and enjoy!
Nutrition
Notes
- Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for thighs over breasts. They stay moist and tender during long cooking times.
- Fresh Spices: If you can, use fresh spices. They significantly enhance the flavor compared to older spices that may have lost their potency.
- Customize Heat Levels: Adjust crushed red chili flakes based on your preference. If you like it spicier, feel free to add more!
- Let it Rest: If you can, let the stew sit after cooking. The flavors deepen with a little time before serving.
- Experiment with Toppings: Consider adding a dollop of sour cream or avocado slices for extra creaminess.
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I Cook This on the Stove Instead?
Absolutely! If you prefer to cook on the stove, sauté the aromatics in a large pot, add the other ingredients, and let simmer on low heat for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Stir occasionally.
2. How Can I Make This Gluten-Free?
This recipe is already gluten-free! There are no grains or gluten-containing ingredients. Ensure the chorizo is labeled gluten-free as some brands may have gluten.
3. What’s the Best Way to Thicken the Stew?
If you find your stew too watery, you can thicken it by dissolving a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water) and whisking it into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
4. What If I Can’t Find Chorizo?
You can definitely substitute the chorizo. Look for a smoked sausage or even a spicy Italian sausage to keep the flavor profile appealing.
5. How Can I Adjust This for Smaller Portions?
You can safely halve the ingredients. Just keep the cooking time roughly the same. The stew will still be just as delicious!
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Spanish Chicken Stew is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. With the beautiful melding of flavors and the simplicity of preparation, it’s a dish that belongs in your kitchen arsenal. Whether for a weekday dinner or a weekend gathering, this stew shines through every time.
I hope you give this delicious recipe a try. Bring it to the table, and watch friends and family gather around for seconds. Enjoy the comforting warmth, the delightful aroma, and let the flavors tell a story of their own. Happy cooking!
