MEMORIES OF MACEDONIA ~ Pileshko Tavche (Chicken in a clay pot)

white beans

🥗Healthier: lentils

💰Cheaper: canned beans

Lentils cook faster and are often less expensive.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: sunflower oil

Avocado oil has a higher smoke point and is versatile.

smoked paprika

🥗Healthier: regular paprika

💰Cheaper: sweet paprika

Regular paprika offers flavor without the smokiness.

vinegar

🥗Healthier: lemon juice

💰Cheaper: apple cider vinegar

Lemon juice adds acidity with fewer calories.

Soak the clay pot in water overnight to prevent cracking when cooking.

Prepare the chicken thighs by removing the skin; you can choose to use chicken breasts or keep the bone in the thighs.

Slice the crimini mushrooms if not pre-sliced; you can substitute with white mushrooms if desired.

In the clay pot, layer the chicken thighs, followed by the sliced mushrooms, tomatoes, hot banana peppers, and minced garlic.

Add the chicken bouillon cubes, ground pepper, oregano, paprika, and hot chili flakes to the pot.

Pour in enough water to cover the ingredients, and optionally add a can of mushroom gravy for thickness.

Place the clay pot in a preheated oven at 350°F to start cooking.

Stir the mixture occasionally to prevent the top from burning and to ensure even cooking; adjust the heat as necessary.

Cook slowly, allowing the flavors to meld together; taste for salt and adjust if needed before serving.

Once cooked, garnish with fresh parsley and serve with yogurt and sides like salad or soup.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level: