Chakhokhbili (Chicken Stew)
A flavorful Georgian stew featuring chicken braised with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and herbs. Traditionally made with pheasant, chicken is a common modern substitute.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1.5 kg Chicken(cut into serving pieces)
- 3 large Onions(chopped)
- 800 g Tomatoes(chopped, fresh or canned)
- 5 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 bunch Cilantro(chopped)
- 1 bunch Parsley(chopped)
- 1/2 bunch Tarragon(chopped (optional))
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 100 ml White wine(dry (optional))
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Brown chicken pieces on all sides. Remove chicken and set aside.
⏱️ 10-15 minutes - 2
Add chopped onions to the pot and sauté until softened and translucent.
⏱️ 8-10 minutes - 3
Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
⏱️ 1 minute - 4
Return the chicken to the pot. Add chopped tomatoes, white wine (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
💡 Tip: If using fresh tomatoes, you may want to peel and seed them first. - 5
Bring the stew to a simmer, then cover and cook on low heat for about 45-60 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
⏱️ 45-60 minutes - 6
Stir in the chopped fresh herbs (cilantro, parsley, and tarragon if using) just before serving.
💡 Tip: Add herbs at the end to preserve their fresh flavor and color.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer flavor, you can use chicken thighs instead of a whole chicken.
- ✓Adjust the amount of tomatoes based on your preference for a saucier stew.
- ✓Serve hot with Georgian bread (shotis puri) or rice.
🔄 Variations
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Some recipes include a small amount of adjika for extra spice.