Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 10 ounces vegan chicken (or chicken substitute of choice)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, peeled and finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup green bell pepper, chopped
- ¼ teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- 12 ounces tomato sauce
- 7 ounces black olives, drained and pits removed
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and golden. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes, taking care not to burn it.
- Cook Bell Pepper: Stir in the chopped green bell pepper and cook for about 5 minutes until it starts to soften and release its aroma.
- Brown Vegan Chicken: Add the vegan chicken pieces to the pot. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pieces are lightly browned on the outside to develop flavor.
- Add Olives: Stir in the black olives and simmer for 3-5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Season the Stew: Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, oregano, and optional chili flakes. Stir well to coat evenly and cook for about 1 minute until the spices are fragrant.
- Simmer with Tomato Sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce and stir. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover partially and let the stew cook for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens and flavors meld.
- Serve: Ladle the Spanish Chicken Stew into bowls and serve hot with crusty bread, rice, or fried rice noodles.
Notes
- Use vegan chicken or any preferred chicken substitute to keep this dish plant-based.
- Adjust chili flakes according to your heat preference or omit for a milder stew.
- Black olives add a salty, briny depth; green or Kalamata olives can be substituted if desired.
- Serve with bread or rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- To make it gluten-free, ensure the chicken substitute and any sides are gluten-free.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Stew
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Spanish
- Diet: Vegan