Chicken Stew Recipe

This comforting Chicken Stew recipe is everything you want in a cozy, hearty meal. It’s rich, full of deep savory flavors, packed with tender chicken and chunky vegetables, and the best part—it’s incredibly easy to make! Whether you’re cooking for the family on a busy weeknight or prepping ahead for the weekend, this stew is your go-to for warmth and satisfaction in a bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for Busy Days: This one-pot meal is incredibly low-effort but tastes like it simmered all day. A true time-saver without sacrificing flavor.
• Hearty and Filling: Loaded with protein-rich chicken, potatoes, carrots, and more, it’s a full, satisfying meal in every spoonful.
• Flavorful: Thanks to a few key ingredients, the broth is deeply savory, aromatic, and layered with comforting flavors.
• Foolproof and Forgiving: You can’t mess this up. It’s flexible, adaptable, and works with what you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s break down what goes into making this irresistible Chicken Stew:

• Chicken thighs or breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are preferred for their rich flavor and tenderness, but breasts work if you prefer leaner meat.
• Onions and garlic: The aromatic base that adds depth and richness. Don’t skip these.
• Carrots and celery: These two are classics for a reason—they bring sweetness and texture to the stew.
• Potatoes: Use a starchy variety like Yukon Gold or Russets for a creamy texture that thickens the broth naturally.
• Tomato paste: Adds umami and a subtle tang that balances out the richness.
• Chicken broth: The liquid gold that ties it all together. Use low-sodium and season to taste.
• Bay leaf and thyme: These herbs bring that warm, earthy flavor every good stew needs.
• Flour or cornstarch: For thickening the stew to that perfect cozy consistency.
• Olive oil or butter: Used to sauté the vegetables and brown the chicken—choose whichever you prefer for flavor.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning each layer as you go.

Variations

• Make it Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a velvety finish.
• Add Greens: Toss in spinach, kale, or peas during the last few minutes of cooking for extra color and nutrients.
• Spicy Kick: Add a diced chili or a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
• Swap the Protein: You can use leftover turkey, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even chunks of beef if that’s what you have.
• Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken, double up on the veggies, and use vegetable broth for a meatless option.

How to Make Chicken Stew

Step 1: Brown the Chicken

Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and sear until golden brown on both sides. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, sauté chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery until softened and fragrant—about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Add Tomato Paste and Herbs

Stir in the tomato paste and cook for a minute or two to deepen the flavor. Add thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Deglaze and Simmer

Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Return the chicken to the pot and add potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for about 30-40 minutes.

Step 5: Thicken the Stew

If desired, mix a little flour or cornstarch with water to make a slurry and stir it in. Simmer for another 5-10 minutes until the stew thickens slightly.

Step 6: Adjust and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning. Remove the bay leaf. Serve piping hot.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Chicken Thighs: They stay tender and juicy even after a long simmer. Breasts can dry out if overcooked.
• Brown for Flavor: Don’t skip searing the chicken—it adds layers of flavor you just can’t get any other way.
• Cut Vegetables Evenly: To ensure everything cooks at the same rate, keep your veggie chunks uniform in size.
• Let It Rest: Letting the stew sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking allows the flavors to meld even more beautifully.

How to Serve

Chicken Stew is a meal all on its own, but here’s how to take it up a notch:

Rustic Bread

Serve with warm, crusty bread for dunking—think baguette, sourdough, or a slice of garlic toast.

Over Rice or Mashed Potatoes

Spoon it over fluffy mashed potatoes or rice for an even heartier dish.

Fresh Herbs

Top with fresh parsley or a touch of lemon zest for brightness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool the stew completely and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Chicken Stew freezes beautifully. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up if needed.

FAQs

Can I make Chicken Stew in a slow cooker?
Yes! Sear the chicken and sauté the veggies first if you can, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

How do I thicken my stew without flour?
Use mashed potatoes, pureed vegetables, or a cornstarch slurry for a gluten-free option.

Can I use frozen vegetables?
Absolutely. Add them in during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking so they don’t get mushy.

Why is my stew too watery?
Simmer it longer uncovered to let some of the liquid evaporate, or add a thickening agent like flour or cornstarch slurry.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Stew is pure comfort in a bowl—easy to make, endlessly customizable, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want a nourishing, delicious meal without fuss, this stew is a guaranteed hit. Give it a try and make it your own!

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