Embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Belize with this mouthwatering recipe for Belizean Stewed Chicken. Bursting with rich and aromatic spices, this traditional dish captures the essence of Belizean cuisine, known for its diverse influences and vibrant flavors.

In Belize, stewed chicken is more than just a meal; it's a celebration of community, culture, and the warmth of shared moments around the dinner table. This recipe promises to bring the authentic taste of Belize into your kitchen, allowing you to experience the delicious blend of local spices and cooking techniques that make this dish a beloved staple in Belizean households.

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the irresistible combination of tender chicken, flavorful herbs, and a savory stew that embodies the unique and inviting spirit of Belize. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this Belizean Stewed Chicken recipe is sure to transport you to the sunny shores of Belize with every savory bite.

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs chicken pieces (assorted, such as thighs, drumsticks, or wings)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 teaspoons Belizean recado spice blend (or a mix of cumin, paprika, thyme, and oregano)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons white vinegar
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

Instructions:

Marinate the Chicken:In a bowl, season the chicken pieces with half of the recado spice blend, salt, and black pepper. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or for a more robust flavor, refrigerate overnight.

Sear the Chicken:Heat the vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken pieces on all sides until they develop a golden color. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.

Sauté Aromatics:In the same pot, add the chopped onions, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and aromatic.

Create the Tomato Base:Stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato paste. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes break down and the mixture thickens.

Spice it Up:Add the remaining recado spice blend, dried oregano, dried thyme, and bay leaf. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the spices.

Bring it Together:Return the seared chicken to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, and white vinegar. Bring the stew to a gentle boil.

Simmer to Perfection:Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 45-60 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Adjust Seasoning:Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper according to your preference.

Garnish and Serve:Sprinkle with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving. Belizean Stewed Chicken is often served with rice, beans, or tortillas to soak up the delicious sauce.

Enjoy:Serve hot and savor the authentic flavors of Belize in every delightful bite. This Belize Stewed Chicken is a true celebration of Belizean culinary heritage!

Nutritional Values:

Here's a general estimate of the nutritional values for the main ingredients in the Belize Stewed Chicken recipe. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on specific brands and preparation methods. Additionally, the values are given per serving and assume the recipe serves 6:

3 lbs chicken pieces (assorted):

• Calories: 900
• Protein: 120g
• Fat: 45g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits: High-quality protein source, essential for muscle development and repair.

2 tablespoons vegetable oil:

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

benefits: Provides healthy fats that support nutrient absorption and brain function.

1 onion, finely chopped:

• Calories: 45
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 11g
• Fiber: 2g

benefits: Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, supports immune health.

3 cloves garlic, minced:

• Calories: 13
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits: Contains allicin, known for its anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties.

1 bell pepper, diced:

• Calories: 25
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 2g

benefits: Excellent source of vitamin C, supports immune function and skin health.

2 tomatoes, diced:

• Calories: 50
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 4g

benefits: Packed with antioxidants, including lycopene, which may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

2 tablespoons tomato paste:

• Calories: 30
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Fiber: 2g

benefits: Concentrated source of antioxidants and vitamins, adds richness to the stew.

2 teaspoons Belizean recado spice blend:

• (Nutritional values may vary; typically low in calories and fat, may contribute some sodium)

benefits: May contain a mix of cumin, paprika, thyme, and oregano, providing a flavorful and aromatic profile.

1 teaspoon dried oregano:

• Calories: 5
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 1g

benefits: Rich in antioxidants, has anti-inflammatory properties.

1 teaspoon dried thyme:

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

benefits: Contains vitamins and minerals, may have antimicrobial properties.

1 teaspoon black pepper:

• Calories: 6
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits: Enhances flavor; may improve digestion and nutrient absorption.

1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste):

• (Nutritional values can vary based on the type and amount used)

benefits: Regulates fluid balance, supports nerve and muscle function.

1 cup chicken broth:

• Calories: 10
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits: Provides essential nutrients and adds depth of flavor to the stew.

1 bay leaf:

• (Negligible caloric contribution)

benefits: Adds aromatic qualities; may have anti-inflammatory properties.

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce:

• Calories: 15
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits: Adds a savory umami flavor; contains fermented ingredients.

2 tablespoons white vinegar:

• Calories: 2
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits: Enhances acidity and brightness in the stew; may aid digestion.

Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish:

• (Negligible caloric contribution)

benefits: Adds freshness and a burst of flavor; may have detoxifying properties.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific brands and preparation methods. It's always a good idea to check specific product labels for the most accurate nutritional information.