Cowboy chicken & bean stew

3 of 5-a-day 4 servings 800 kcal or less alfresco dining camping recipes chicken casserole chicken stew fibre folate iron mains over an hour

N/A

Source

Ingredients

drizzle of oil

1 large onion , chopped

6 rashers smoked streaky bacon , chopped

8 chicken portions (we used thighs and drumsticks), skin removed

1 tbsp smoked paprika

2 x 400g cans chopped tomatoes with garlic

200g barbecue sauce (measure by filling half a 400g can if you don't have scales)

1 tbsp dried oregano or mixed dried herbs

2 x 400g cans pinto beans

grated cheddar and tortilla chips, to serve (optional)

Method

Heat the oil in a large casserole dish with a lid. Add the onion and bacon, and cook over a medium heat for 15 mins, until the onion is really soft and starting to brown, and the bacon is crisp. Push to the side of the pan, increase the heat and add the chicken pieces. Cook for a few mins until the meat is nicely browned, but don’t worry if it’s not evenly coloured. Add the paprika, tomatoes, along with half a can (200ml) water, the barbecue sauce, herbs, a pinch of salt and a generous amount of black pepper. Cover with a lid, lower the heat to a gentle simmer and cook for 45 mins, stirring occasionally.

Check that the chicken is tender – if not, cover again and cook for 15 mins more. Add the beans and simmer, uncovered, for 20 mins until the sauce is thickened. Serve in bowls topped with grated cheddar and tortilla chips, if you like.