Chili Stewed Hen
A hearty, flavorful chicken stew with a spicy chili kick, aromatic herbs, and tender meat, perfect for comforting dinners and those who enjoy bold, spicy flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion and minced garlic; set aside.
- Dust chicken pieces with flour and brown on both sides.
- Stir in the onion and garlic mixture, chili puree, bay leaves, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and cook for 45 minutes or until the chicken is tender.
- Remove bay leaves.
- In a small bowl, blend cornstarch with water until smooth.
- Add the cornstarch mixture to the skillet and cook over low heat, stirring until the sauce thickens.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, marinate the chicken in the spices and garlic overnight. If you prefer a spicier dish, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. You can substitute the chicken with turkey or use boneless pieces for quicker cooking. A gluten-free flour blend can replace regular flour if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili stewed hen over a bed of rice or with warm crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. It pairs beautifully with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. Consider serving it alongside Granny Byrum's Chicken Stew for a comforting meal spread.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chili stewed hen can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Add a splash of chicken broth if the sauce thickens too much.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Stewed Hen contains roughly 390 calories, with 5g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 896mg per serving (39% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, boneless chicken can be used, but adjust the cooking time as it may cook faster. Aim for about 30 minutes of cooking for boneless pieces, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
What can I serve with chili stewed hen?
This dish pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread. You might also consider a light salad or steamed vegetables to balance the meal. For a comforting twist, serve it alongside Broccoli, Potato, Cheese Soup.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like eggplant, mushrooms, and zucchini. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and adjust cooking times to ensure the vegetables are tender yet firm.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).