Welcome to the flavorful world of Belgian cuisine, where rich history and culinary excellence intersect. In this recipe, we'll delve into the heartwarming realm of Belgian Beer Chicken Stew, a dish that perfectly encapsulates the essence of Belgian gastronomy. Bursting with robust flavors, this hearty stew combines tender chicken, aromatic vegetables, and the exquisite taste of Belgian beer to create a symphony of taste sensations that will delight your palate and warm your soul. Whether you're seeking comfort on a chilly evening or hosting a gathering with friends, this Belgian Beer Chicken Stew is sure to impress with its depth of flavor and rustic charm. So, let's roll up our sleeves, grab our aprons, and embark on a culinary journey to Belgium's culinary heartland as we prepare this delectable dish together.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 12 oz Belgian beer (choose your favorite variety)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1- In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper, then add them to the pot, skin-side down. Cook until the skin is golden and crispy, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.

2- In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

3- Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste.

4- Slowly pour in the Belgian beer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon. Allow the beer to come to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.

5- Return the chicken thighs to the pot, along with any accumulated juices. Pour in the chicken broth, then add the bay leaves and dried thyme. Bring the stew to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 45-50 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

6- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and shred the meat using two forks. Discard the bones and skin.

7- Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir to combine. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

8- Serve the Belgian Beer Chicken Stew hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley. Pair it with crusty bread or over a bed of mashed potatoes for a complete meal. Enjoy the rich flavors of Belgium in every comforting bite!

Nutritional Values:

Here are the approximate nutritional values for each ingredient used in the Belgian Beer Chicken Stew recipe:

Chicken thighs (2 lbs, bone-in, skin-on):

• Calories: 1200
• Protein: 144g
• Fat: 72g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits: Excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals such as iron and zinc. They provide essential amino acids necessary for muscle growth and repair.

Olive oil (2 tablespoons):

• Calories: 240
• Fat: 28g
• Protein: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits: Rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, olive oil helps reduce inflammation, improve cholesterol levels, and promote overall heart health.

Onion (1 large, chopped):

• Calories: 60
• Protein: 1.5g
• Fat: 0.5g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 3g

benefits: Onions are low in calories and rich in antioxidants and nutrients like vitamin C, which supports immune health, and fiber, which aids digestion.

Carrots (2, diced):

• Calories: 50
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 4g

benefits: Packed with beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A, carrots promote healthy vision, skin, and immune function. They're also a good source of fiber and antioxidants.

Celery stalks (2, diced):

• Calories: 20
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Fiber: 2g

benefits: Low in calories and high in fiber, celery is hydrating and may help lower inflammation and support digestive health due to its antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.

Garlic cloves (3, minced):

• Calories: 15
• Protein: 0.5g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits: Garlic is known for its potent medicinal properties, including boosting the immune system, reducing blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and combating illness due to its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties.

All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons):

• Calories: 60
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 13g
• Fiber: 0.5g

benefits: While not particularly nutritious, flour is used as a thickening agent in recipes like stews. It provides carbohydrates for energy but should be consumed in moderation due to its refined nature.

Belgian beer (12 oz):

• Calories: 150-250 (varies based on brand and type of beer)
• Protein: 1-3g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10-20g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits: Contains antioxidants and may offer some health benefits when consumed in moderation, such as improving heart health and reducing the risk of certain diseases. The specific benefits can vary depending on the type and ingredients of the beer.

Chicken broth (2 cups):

• Calories: 20-40 (depending on whether it's homemade or store-bought)
• Protein: 2-4g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 2-4g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits: Provides hydration and essential nutrients like protein and minerals. It's also beneficial for gut health and can help alleviate symptoms of colds and flu.

Bay leaves (2):

• Negligible caloric content

benefits: While not a significant source of nutrients, bay leaves add flavor to dishes and may have some mild antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Dried thyme (1 teaspoon):

• Negligible caloric content

benefits: Contains vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support immune function and may help relieve respiratory issues and aid digestion.

Salt and pepper to taste:

• Negligible caloric content

benefits: Used for seasoning, salt provides essential electrolytes, while pepper contains antioxidants and may aid digestion and improve nutrient absorption.

Chopped fresh parsley for garnish:

• Negligible caloric content

benefits: Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants, parsley supports bone health, boosts immunity, and aids digestion.

Please note that these values are approximate and may vary based on factors such as the specific brands of ingredients used and any variations in preparation methods.