Family meals: Chicken & veg casserole

• knob of butter
• onion↗1

  finely chopped

• medium carrots↗3

  finely chopped

• medium sticks celery↗2

  finely chopped

• approx chicken thigh500g g
• fat garlic cloves↗2

  crushed

• sweet smoked paprika↗1 tsp tsp
• ground cumin↗½ tsp tsp
• dried thyme↗1 tsp tsp
• 2 x 400g cans chopped tomatoes
• chicken stock cube↗1
• red or orange pepper1

  diced

• 1 x 400g can chickpeas

  drained (optional)

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   Heat the butter in a large heavy-based pan. Add the onion, carrot and celery and cook gently until softened.

2. 2

   Add the chicken thighs, garlic, spices and thyme. Cook stirring until the chicken is opaque.

3. 3

   Pour in the tomatoes, plus one extra can of water or enough to cover the chicken and vegetables. Add the stock and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook uncovered for 50 mins.

4. 4

   If using, add the chickpeas and cook for a further five mins. Serve with rice. For young children, break the chicken into smaller pieces and serve.