Greek Chicken Stifado

Greek Chicken Stifado is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings the taste of the Mediterranean straight to your table. The combination of tender chicken, pearl onions, and a spiced tomato sauce creates a rich, comforting stew that’s perfect for chilly evenings. Slow-cooked with warm spices like cinnamon and allspice, this dish captures the essence of Greek home cooking. Pair it with a side of fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or a slice of crusty bread to soak up the luscious sauce. Whether you’re preparing a special family meal or simply craving a cozy and delicious dinner, this Greek Chicken Stifado is guaranteed to impress!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ cups pearl onions, peeled
• 1 cup crushed tomatoes
• ½ cup red wine
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• ½ tsp ground allspice
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season chicken thighs with salt and black pepper.
2. Sear the chicken for about 5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the pot and set aside.
3. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and pearl onions. Sauté for 5 minutes until they soften.
4. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
5. Stir in tomato paste, cinnamon, allspice, and oregano, cooking for 1 minute.
6. Deglaze the pot with red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
7. Pour in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and red wine vinegar. Add the bay leaf.
8. Return the chicken to the pot, submerging it in the sauce.
9. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes until the chicken is tender and the sauce thickens.
10. Remove the bay leaf, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot with rice or crusty bread.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 55 minutes | Total Time: 70 minutes
Kcal: 380 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

The Origins of Stifado

The word “stifado” comes from the Italian word “stufato”, which means “stew.” This dish dates back to the Venetian occupation of Greece, and over time, it evolved into the heartwarming recipe we know today. While the original stifado was often made with game meat like rabbit, modern variations incorporate beef, lamb, and chicken. The signature element of stifado is the use of shallots or pearl onions, which add a subtle sweetness to the dish, balancing the acidity of the tomatoes.

What Makes Greek Chicken Stifado Unique?

Unlike other stews, Greek Chicken Stifado stands out due to its unique blend of ingredients and slow-cooked process. Here are some key elements that make it special:

1. Shallots or Pearl Onions: The use of whole shallots gives the dish a naturally sweet undertone as they caramelize during cooking.
2. Cinnamon and Mediterranean Spices: Traditional stifado incorporates cinnamon, bay leaves, oregano, and sometimes cloves, creating a deep and aromatic flavor.
3. Tomato-Based Sauce: A combination of fresh tomatoes, tomato paste, and balsamic vinegar forms a tangy yet rich sauce.
4. Slow Cooking Method: The slow simmering process allows the chicken to become incredibly tender while the flavors develop beautifully.
5. Versatility in Serving: It can be enjoyed with a variety of sides, from mashed potatoes and orzo to crusty bread or rice.

Why You Should Try This Dish

If you are looking for a dish that is both flavorful and easy to prepare, Greek Chicken Stifado is an excellent choice. The combination of slowly simmered chicken with sweet shallots and a fragrant sauce makes for a dish that is comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress.

Some benefits of making Greek Chicken Stifado include:

• Rich in Nutrients: With lean chicken and antioxidant-rich tomatoes, this dish is both healthy and nourishing.
• One-Pot Wonder: It’s a convenient meal that doesn’t require extensive preparation or cleanup.
• Authentic Greek Flavors: If you love Mediterranean cuisine, this dish offers a true taste of Greece.

How to Serve Greek Chicken Stifado

Pairing the right side dishes with Greek Chicken Stifado enhances the experience. Here are a few serving suggestions:

1. With Orzo or Rice: The sauce pairs beautifully with orzo or fluffy rice, soaking up all the delicious flavors.
2. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a hearty base for the stew.
3. Crusty Bread: A fresh loaf of rustic bread is perfect for dipping into the rich tomato sauce.
4. With a Greek Salad: A side of fresh Greek salad with feta cheese and olives complements the richness of the dish.
5. Paired with Red Wine: A glass of Greek red wine, such as Agiorgitiko, enhances the flavors of the stew.

Tips for Making the Best Greek Chicken Stifado

To ensure your stifado turns out perfectly every time, consider these tips:

• Use Bone-In Chicken for Extra Flavor: The bones add depth to the broth, making the dish more flavorful.
• Brown the Chicken Well: Searing the chicken pieces before simmering enhances the overall taste.
• Slow Cook for Maximum Flavor: Allowing the dish to simmer slowly helps develop a rich and complex taste.
• Adjust the Spices to Your Taste: Feel free to experiment with cinnamon, cloves, and bay leaves to suit your preference.

Variations of Greek Chicken Stifado

If you love experimenting in the kitchen, try these variations:

• Beef or Lamb Stifado: Replace the chicken with beef or lamb for a richer, heartier stew.
• Vegetarian Stifado: Swap the meat for mushrooms, chickpeas, or eggplant for a plant-based version.
• Spicy Stifado: Add more red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
• Slow Cooker Method: Cook it in a slow cooker for a hands-off approach, letting the flavors develop over several hours.

Conclusion:

Greek Chicken Stifado is a classic Mediterranean dish that offers a wonderful blend of flavors, textures, and aromas. Its combination of tender chicken, sweet onions, and a fragrant tomato-based sauce makes it a comforting meal that’s both hearty and nutritious. Whether you are new to Greek cuisine or a long-time fan, this dish is a must-try. Serve it with your favorite sides, and enjoy a taste of Greece right in your own kitchen!