Tavuk Sote (Turkish Chicken Sauté)

Method

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1. 1Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Heat the oil in a wide frying pan over high heat until shimmering.
2. 2Spread the chicken in a single layer (work in two batches if needed) and leave it untouched for 2-3 minutes. Once golden underneath, turn and brown on all sides, then transfer to a plate.
3. 3Add the butter to the same pan with the onion and peppers and sauté over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes, until the peppers soften and catch a little color.
4. 4Stir in the garlic and tomato paste for 1 minute. Add the tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes, until they break down into a sauce.
5. 5Return the chicken to the pan with the hot water, salt, pepper and thyme. Reduce the heat, cover and cook for 10 minutes.
6. 6Uncover and simmer for 2-3 minutes more to thicken the sauce. The chicken should be white and juicy inside, with the sauce clinging to it.
7. 7Sprinkle with pul biber and take off the heat. Serve hot with rice or bulgur pilaf.