Flowlyn Cymreig(Welch Chicken)
A hearty Welsh chicken dish featuring tender chicken cooked with bacon, carrots, leeks, and cabbage, topped with a rich stock gravy—perfect for comforting family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the bacon and carrots into small pieces and fry in butter until just brown.
- Place the chicken on top of the bacon and carrots in a heavy pan, add leeks, mixed herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in stock and dot the chicken with butter.
- Cover and simmer for 2 to 3 hours for a boiling chicken, or less if roasting.
- Cook the cabbage separately and make a bed of it to serve the chicken on, surrounded by the vegetables.
- Boil the stock, thicken with 1 ounce flour and 1 ounce butter, and pour around the chicken or serve separately.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, consider using smoked bacon to add depth to the dish. You can substitute chicken thighs for the whole chicken for a juicier result. If you want a lighter version, use turkey instead of chicken. Fresh herbs can be replaced with dried ones, but use less as they are more concentrated. Ensure to season well with salt and pepper throughout cooking for the best taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken on a bed of steamed cabbage surrounded by the sautéed vegetables for a rustic presentation. Pair with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce, or serve with a side of mashed potatoes for a hearty meal. This dish also pairs beautifully with a light salad for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken and vegetables in a covered saucepan with a splash of stock over low heat until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, ensuring the chicken stays moist. Do not freeze as the texture may change upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Flowlyn Cymreig(Welch Chicken) contains roughly 206 calories, with 9g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (104% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and potassium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 650mg per serving (28% 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 other vegetables in this recipe?
Yes, you can customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand. Root vegetables like parsnips or potatoes can be great additions, or you can use seasonal vegetables like green beans or peas for variety.
How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?
The chicken is fully cooked when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). You can also check that the juices run clear when pierced at the thickest part of the thigh. Cooking times may vary based on the size of the chicken.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish a day in advance and reheat it when ready to serve. The flavors will deepen overnight, making it even more delicious. Just make sure to store it properly in the refrigerator.
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).