Delicious Chicken Stovies Recipe for Dinner
From the rolling hills of the Scottish Highlands comes a dish that has comforted generations of Scots: Chicken Stovies. This traditional Scottish recipe is rich, satisfying, and easy to make. It’s a perfect one-pot meal for cold winter nights or any time you crave a hearty and filling dish.
Stovies originated in Scotland as a way to use up leftovers from a roast dinner. The dish was typically made by simmering potatoes, onions, and leftover roast meat in beef dripping until everything was soft and tender. Over time, stovies became a popular comfort food in their own right and are now enjoyed throughout Scotland.
In this recipe, we use broiler-fryer chickens instead of leftover meat for the ultimate chicken stovies experience. We also add some small whole shallots to enhance the flavor.
Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly dinner idea or want to get in touch with your Scottish roots, this Chicken Stovies recipe is sure to satisfy. Get ready to taste the true essence of Scottish cuisine!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you in search of a heartwarming dish that will impress your guests and soothe your soul? Then look no further than chicken stovies, a traditional Scottish recipe passed down through generations. This dish is sure to become a staple in your household once you give it a try. Here’s why you’ll love this recipe.
Firstly, chicken stovies are the epitome of comfort food. They’re hot, hearty and perfect for chilly, gloomy days when all you want is something warm and cozy. They are a reminder of simpler times and bring back memories of family gatherings around the table, sharing laughter and delicious food.
Secondly, this recipe is made with fresh ingredients and simple pantry staples like potatoes, onions, shallots, parsley, and unsalted butter. So not only is it an easy one-pot meal that can be on the table in no time, but it’s also budget-friendly.
Thirdly, chicken stovies are versatile. This recipe may call for broiler-fryer chickens or leftovers from your roast meat. But feel free to use whatever protein you have on hand or even swap the chicken with corned beef or square sausage to add some Scottish twist to it!
Finally, chicken stovies are not only delicious but they’re also a great way to get in touch with traditional Scottish cuisine. With this recipe, you can indulge in the classic taste of Scotland from the comfort of your own home no matter where you live! It’s an excellent choice for those looking to expand their culinary horizons.
Overall, whether you’re looking for comfort food or wanting to sample traditional Scottish cuisine at its finest, chicken stovies will appeal to everyone. Give this hearty dish a try and I bet it will become one of your family’s favorites!
Ingredient List
Here’s what you’ll need to make this traditional Scottish chicken stovies recipe:
- 2 broiler-fryer chickens (roasted meat works great too!)
- 2 lbs. russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 2cm cubes
- 12 small whole shallots
- 2 large onions, sliced
- 30g lard/butter
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- ½ swede, peeled and cut into 2cm cubes (prepped weight of 400g)
- 2 large carrots, peeled and roughly chopped
- 400g prepped weight potatoes, roughly chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parsley for garnish
Note: The ingredients may vary depending on the recipe version you choose. Some people like adding sausages or corned beef for additional flavor, while others prefer using square sausages. You can also make this dish in a slow cooker for extra convenience. Scottish stovies are all about experimenting with different ingredients to find your own perfect version of this hearty comfort food.
The Recipe How-To
Now that you have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go, it’s time to start cooking up a storm with this traditional Scottish dish – Chicken Stovies!
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by taking 2 broiler-fryer chickens and removing the skin before cutting them into small pieces. You can use any leftover roast meat you have on hand instead of using fresh chicken if you prefer.
Step 2: Brown the Onions and Shallots
Heat up a large pot over medium heat with 2 tablespoons of beef dripping or any cooking oil you prefer, then add 2 sliced onions, 12 small whole shallots, and 2 sliced large potatoes. Cook until browned, taking care not to let them burn.
Step 3: Add the Chicken and Potatoes
Add in the prepped chicken and potatoes to the pot, ensuring to stir well. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Add Liquid and Simmer
Pour in enough boiling water to cover the ingredients in the pot, stirring occasionally until everything is cooked through, around 45 minutes. You can add some chicken stock instead of using water for a richer flavor if desired.
Step 5: Finish off with Parsley Butter
Remove from heat once everything is cooked through and stir in a generous amount of unsalted butter for a creamy finish. Finally, garnish with some freshly chopped parsley before serving hot.
Congratulations! You have now learned how to cook up some delicious Chicken Stovies that would be perfect as a comfort food on a budget!
Substitutions and Variations
I understand that not all of you may have the same ingredients listed in the recipe or that some may want to switch things up a bit. Fear not, as I have compiled a list of substitution and variation options for your convenience.
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, simply replace the chicken with mushrooms or tofu. You could also try using leftover roast meat, such as beef or lamb, in place of chicken.
For a heartier variation of the traditional Scottish stovies, add some slices of square sausage or even some corned beef. These additional ingredients will give the dish a slightly different flavor but still retain its comforting feel.
If you prefer to cook your stovies in a slow cooker, then that is an alternative cooking method you could try. Simply layer your sliced potatoes and onions on the bottom, followed by your chicken pieces and seasoning. Then add enough water or chicken stock to cover everything completely and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours.
Another variation to consider is adding some sausage to the mix. Dice up some sausage links and brown them in a pan over medium-high heat along with the onions before adding them to your casserole dish with your other ingredients.
In terms of herb substitutes, thyme or rosemary would be excellent options instead of parsley if you prefer a more robust flavor.
I hope these substitutions and variations inspire you to experiment with different ingredients and methods while sticking to the traditional Scottish stovies recipe’s spirit. Remember that cooking is all about creativity and making dishes unique in their own way.
Serving and Pairing
As a traditional Scottish comfort food, chicken stovies can be enjoyed on its own, but it also pairs well with other dishes for a complete meal. When it comes to serving this hearty stew, some people prefer to have it with crusty bread, while others enjoy it with boiled or mashed potatoes.
For a more traditional experience, serve chicken stovies with a side of pickled beetroot. The tanginess of the beetroot complements the richness of the stew, making for a delightful pairing. You can also add a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top of the stovies for an extra pop of color and flavor.
As for beverages, opt for something that can cut through the richness of the dish. A crisp white wine or light beer would be good options. For non-alcoholic drinks, consider apple cider or sparkling water with lemon wedges.
Chicken stovies is a budget-friendly dish that is perfect for feeding a crowd. So if you’re hosting a large gathering, consider making a big pot of stovies and serving it family-style. Your guests will appreciate the warmth and generosity that comes with sharing food around the table.
In summary, there’s no shortage of ways to serve and pair chicken stovies – whether it’s with bread, potatoes or pickled beetroot. So get creative with your sides and drinks and enjoy this classic Scottish dish in your very own way.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
One of the comforts of Scottish dishes is the ability to make them ahead and store them for later. Traditional Scottish stovies are no exception. You can make a big batch of chicken stovies, portion it out, and store it in the fridge or freezer for later use.
When storing chicken stovies in the fridge, it’s best to consume them within 3-5 days. For longer storage, place portions of the stovies in airtight containers or freezer bags and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To reheat chicken stovies, simply place a portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat it up in the microwave until it’s hot. Alternatively, you can heat the stovies on a stove over medium heat until thoroughly warmed through, adding a little bit of water if necessary.
A good tip to keep in mind when reheating chicken stovies is that they tend to thicken after being stored in the fridge or freezer. If you find that your reheated chicken stovies are too thick, add some water or chicken broth to thin them out.
In summary, chicken stovies are a great meal prep option for busy days when you don’t have time to cook from scratch. They also make fantastic leftovers that you can enjoy for several days without sacrificing flavor. Store them correctly and reheat them correctly and you’ll be rewarded with hearty comfort food every time!
Tips for Perfect Results
To achieve the best taste and texture for your Chicken Stovies, I would like to share some tips that will make a tremendous impact on the final result.
First, for maximum flavor, always use unsalted butter when making the dish. It highlights the natural taste of other ingredients, such as the chicken and potatoes, without being overwhelmed by the salt.
Another important point is to use russet potatoes in your recipe, which can hold their shape well after long simmering. To ensure that the potatoes are evenly cooked and don’t turn mushy or disintegrate, cut them into 2cm cubes. Additionally, I recommend slicing onions very thinly or roughly chopped; Being generous with black pepper and adding salt in small increments help to balance the flavors.
Suppose you want to add some color to your dish while enhancing its nutritional value. In that case, you can sprinkle chopped parsley over the top before serving. The herb adds a fresh texture and brightness that aid in balancing any richness from fat content.
For meat substitution, leftover roast beef can replace chicken if you have it on hand. Alternatively, corned beef or square sausage are excellent options that you can also use; boiled sausages will give an extra layer of flavor to this single-pot comfort food.
Lastly, for more complex recipes like Beef dripping or Slow cooker stovies recipes, make sure you follow those recipes closely as changes can alter the delicate balance of flavors within them. By following these tips, you will get outstanding results every time you make stovies in the Scottish style!
FAQ
Now, let’s move on to the FAQs section where you will get the answers to some common questions about this recipe. Whether you’re a newcomer to Scottish cuisine, or an experienced cook looking for ways to tweak this traditional dish, these FAQs will help you get the most out of your chicken stovies. So, let’s jump into it!
What are Scottish stovies made of?
Stovies refer to a well-known Scottish meal comprising potatoes, onions and typically, residual roast meat cooked in beef dripping. It’s a brilliant way to utilize leftovers and reduce food wastage.
What does the Scottish word stovies mean?
Stovies is a popular Scottish meal that features potatoes as its main ingredient. The recipe for stovies can differ from region to region and from household to household, but it generally consists of potatoes, fat, onions, and sometimes meat or other vegetables.
Why is stovies called stovies?
Stovies, a hearty Scottish dish, gets its name from the cooking technique used. Instead of boiling, potatoes are slowly stewed with onions and meat. The term “to stove” refers to this method. While there may be some variation in the ingredients used, potatoes, onions, and meat are typically the main components of stovies.
Where did stovies originate from?
A classic Scottish meal known as Stovies has its roots in the North Eastern regions of Angus and Aberdeenshire. The dish remains a popular culinary tradition in these areas till date.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, chicken stovies are a hearty and comforting Scottish meal that will warm your heart and soul. This traditional Scottish recipe is easy to make and perfect for those on a budget. With variations such as corned beef, square sausage, or even using leftover roast meat, stovies can be adapted to suit any taste.
By using the freshest ingredients such as parsley, unsalted butter, russet potatoes, shallots, and broiler-fryer chickens, you will be able to produce a dish that is full of flavor and nutrients. And with tips for perfect results provided in this article, you can be sure that your stovies will turn out perfectly every time.
Overall, chicken stovies are the epitome of Scottish comfort food that has been enjoyed for generations. By giving this recipe a try, not only will you get to experience the rich flavors of Scotland but also make one-pot meals that are perfect for family dinners or even meal prepping.
So why not get traditional with this Scottish-style stovies recipe? Make a pot today or experiment with variations and enjoy the flavors of Scotland from the comfort of your own home!
Chicken Stovies - Traditional Scottish Recipe Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 (3 lb) broiler-fryer chickens
- 12 small whole shallots (can substitute 2 sliced large onions)
- 2 1/2 lbs russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cups chicken stock, made from the boiled giblets
- salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons chopped parsley (to garnish) (optional)
Instructions
- Cut chicken into serving pieces.
- Slice potatoes in medium thick rounds.
- Melt 1 heaped tablespoons.
- of butter in a skillet or saucepan.
- Brown chicken joints lightly on both sides and then remove them.
- Grease an ovenproof casserole dish and put in layers as follows: sliced potatoes, whole shallots or sliced onions (all well-seasoned), chicken.
- Dot each layer with little knobs of butter.
- Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of potatoes.
- Pour stock over the potatoes, shallots and chicken.
- Cover with buttered greaseproof paper, then with lid.
- Cook in oven at 275F/135C for about 2½ hours.
- Add a little hot stock or water after about an hour or so, if liquid dries up too much.
- Sprinkle generously with chopped parsley 5 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
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Brian is a British chef cum food blogger who has been in the kitchen since he was a young lad. Growing up in Manchester, he developed a passion for cooking and a keen eye for the perfect dish. He now runs his own blog and YouTube channel, which is dedicated to sharing his passion for food with the world.