"Kota Kapama" - Greek Stewed Chicken
Kota Kapama is a flavorful Greek stewed chicken dish with aromatic cinnamon, lemon, and tomato, perfect for hearty family meals or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut chicken into serving pieces and sprinkle with lemon juice, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
- Brown chicken in butter.
- Mix tomato paste with boiling water in a large saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and place browned chicken in the tomato mixture.
- Pour butter through a strainer over the chicken and tomato mixture.
- Add wine and cook about 1 hour until chicken is tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a rich flavor, consider adding garlic or onion when browning the chicken. You can substitute olive oil for butter for a lighter option. If you prefer a thicker sauce, let the tomato mixture simmer longer before adding the chicken. Adjust the cinnamon to your taste, as it can be quite strong. For a twist, try adding a splash of orange juice for a hint of sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Kota Kapama with fluffy rice or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. Roasted vegetables or a fresh Greek salad complement this dish beautifully. For a heartier meal, pair it with wild rice, which adds a nutty flavor. This stewed chicken also works well alongside recipes like Eddie'S Chicken Sauce Piquant for a delightful dinner spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. You can also reheat in the microwave, but cover the dish to prevent drying out. For best texture, avoid reheating multiple times.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Kota Kapama" - Greek Stewed Chicken contains roughly 614 calories, with 24g protein, 104g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (111% of the Daily Value), potassium (102% of the Daily Value), and iron (81% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1008mg per serving (44% 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 bone-in chicken pieces instead of a whole chicken?
Yes, using bone-in pieces like thighs or drumsticks will work well. Adjust the cooking time as needed, ensuring the chicken is cooked through and tender. Bone-in pieces often provide more flavor and moisture, making the dish even more delicious.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini can enhance both flavor and nutrition. Simply add them to the pot when you place the chicken in the tomato mixture, and they will cook down nicely, absorbing the sauce.
What kind of wine should I use for this recipe?
A dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, works best for this dish. Avoid sweet wines, as they can alter the flavor profile. If you prefer not to use wine, chicken broth can be a great substitute to maintain moisture and flavor.
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).