A Light One-Pot Polish Vegetable Stew
If you love traditional Polish leczo but want a lighter version, this recipe is for you. Unlike many classic recipes, this Healthy Polish Leczo with Chicken is made without frying and without any added oil. Everything cooks together in one pot, allowing the vegetables and chicken to release their natural flavors.
The result is a hearty, colorful meal packed with tender chicken, peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, and a rich tomato sauce. It’s filling, naturally lower in calories, and perfect for meal prep or family dinners.
Although inspired by the classic Polish version, this is my own lighter take on leczo. It’s one of those recipes I make again and again because it’s simple, healthy, and incredibly flavorful.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No frying required
- No added oil
- One-pot recipe
- High in protein
- Packed with vegetables
- Naturally low in calories
- Great for meal prep
- Even better the next day
Ingredients
- 800 g chicken breast, diced
- 300 g onion, diced
- 4 cans (400 g each) chopped tomatoes
- 600 g bell peppers, diced (any colors)
- 500 g zucchini, diced
- 400 g white mushrooms, sliced
Seasoning
- 2–3 tbsp sweet paprika
- ½–1 tsp hot paprika (optional)
- 2–2½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1–1½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 4–6 garlic cloves, minced (or 1½ tsp garlic powder)
- 1 tsp dried marjoram
- ½–1 tsp sugar (only if the tomatoes taste acidic)
Optional, but Highly Recommended
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ¼–½ tsp cayenne pepper (or more, if you enjoy spicy food)
Instructions
Step 1
Pour the canned tomatoes into a large pot.
Add the diced chicken and diced onion.
Bring everything to a gentle boil over medium heat.
There is no need to fry anything first. The chicken cooks directly in the tomatoes, keeping the recipe lighter while still developing plenty of flavor.
Step 2
Add the sliced mushrooms.
Cook for about 10 minutes.
Step 3
Add the diced bell peppers.
Continue cooking for another 10 minutes.
Step 4
Add the diced zucchini.
Season with:
- sweet paprika
- hot paprika (if using)
- marjoram
- black pepper
- garlic
- most of the salt
- smoked paprika and oregano (if using)
If you like spicy food, add a little cayenne pepper as well.
Step 5
Continue simmering over low heat until all the vegetables are tender and the chicken is fully cooked, about 20–30 minutes.
The vegetables will naturally release plenty of juice, creating a rich tomato sauce without adding any oil.
Step 6
Taste the leczo.
If the tomatoes are slightly acidic, stir in ½–1 teaspoon sugar.
Adjust the salt and pepper if needed.
Serve hot.
Serving Suggestions
Healthy Polish Leczo is delicious served with:
- Fresh crusty bread
- Whole-grain bread
- Boiled potatoes
- Mashed potatoes
- Steamed rice
Or simply enjoy it on its own for a lighter, low-calorie meal.
Tips for the Best Leczo
- There’s no need to fry the ingredients—everything cooks together in one pot.
- Use peppers of different colors for the best flavor and appearance.
- Smoked paprika adds a subtle depth that pairs beautifully with the vegetables.
- If you enjoy spicy food, cayenne pepper gives the stew an extra kick.
- Taste before adding all the salt, as canned tomatoes vary in saltiness.
- Leczo tastes even better the following day.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this authentic Hungarian lecso?
No. This is a lighter Polish-style leczo inspired by the traditional dish. Polish leczo often includes additional vegetables and different types of meat.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Yes. Chicken thighs work perfectly, although they contain a little more fat.
Can I add sausage?
Absolutely. It will make the dish richer and more traditional, but it will no longer be a low-calorie version.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes. Simply omit the chicken and add extra mushrooms, beans, or lentils.
Can I use fresh tomatoes?
Yes. Replace the canned tomatoes with approximately 1.5–2 kg ripe fresh tomatoes.
Is leczo spicy?
Traditionally, it can be mildly spicy. This recipe is easy to adjust—leave out the hot paprika for a milder version or add cayenne pepper if you like extra heat.
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