Cowboy chicken & bean stew

• drizzle of oil
• large onion↗1

  chopped

• rashers smoked streaky bacon↗6

  chopped

• 8 chicken↗

  portions (we used thighs and drumsticks), skin removed

• smoked paprika↗1 tbsp tbsp
• 2 x 400g cans chopped tomatoes

  with garlic

• barbecue sauce↗200g g

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

• dried oregano↗1 tbsp tbsp

  or mixed dried herbs

• 2 x 400g cans pinto beans
• grated cheddar

  and tortilla chips, to serve (optional)

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   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.

2. 2

   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.