Chicken Stew

Chicken Stew is a hearty and comforting dish filled with tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and a rich, savory broth. This one-pot meal is perfect for chilly days and is easy to make on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or in an Instant Pot. The result is a deliciously warm and satisfying stew that the whole family will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and filling with tender chicken and veggies
• Easy to make with simple ingredients
• Great for meal prep and leftovers
• Perfect for cozy dinners on cold days
• Versatile and customizable with your favorite vegetables

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 3 celery stalks, sliced
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into pieces
• 6 cups chicken broth (low sodium)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for a creamy stew)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Sauté the Chicken:
   • Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
   • Add chicken pieces and cook until lightly browned. Remove chicken and set aside.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
   • In the same pot, add onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
3. Add the Broth and Seasonings:
   • Stir in potatoes, green beans, chicken broth, thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
   • Return the chicken to the pot.
4. Simmer the Stew:
   • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
5. Thicken the Stew:
   • In a small bowl, mix flour with a few tablespoons of broth to create a slurry.
   • Stir the slurry into the stew and cook for an additional 5 minutes until thickened.
6. Add Cream (Optional):
   • Stir in the heavy cream for a richer, creamier texture.
7. Serve:
   • Remove the bay leaf, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot with crusty bread or biscuits.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Crockpot Chicken Stew: Add all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the slurry in the last 30 minutes.
• Instant Pot Version: Sauté the chicken and vegetables using the sauté function, then add remaining ingredients and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Quick release pressure and thicken with a slurry if needed.
• Creamy Chicken Stew: Use 1 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half and reduce the broth by 1 cup for a creamier stew.
• Herb Swap: Use fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary for a more aromatic flavor.
• Add Grains: Mix in cooked rice, quinoa, or barley for an extra hearty meal.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use leftover chicken in this recipe?

Yes, add shredded rotisserie or cooked chicken during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

2. Can I make this stew gluten-free?

Yes, replace the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend to thicken the stew.

3. How do I make the stew thicker?

If the stew is too thin, add an additional tablespoon of flour or cornstarch mixed with water and simmer until thickened.

4. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs add extra flavor and remain tender during cooking.

5. What other vegetables can I add to this stew?

Peas, corn, sweet potatoes, or mushrooms make great additions to this chicken stew.

6. Can I use chicken broth instead of water?

Yes, using chicken broth enhances the flavor of the stew.

7. How do I prevent the vegetables from getting too soft?

Cut the vegetables into uniform pieces and avoid overcooking. Simmer just until tender.

8. Can I add pasta to this stew?

Yes, add small pasta shapes in the last 10 minutes of cooking or cook separately and stir in before serving.

9. Can I make this stew dairy-free?

Yes, omit the cream or use a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk.

10. How do I add more flavor to the stew?

Try adding a splash of white wine, Worcestershire sauce, or extra fresh herbs for a flavor boost.

Conclusion

Chicken Stew is a delicious and comforting meal that warms you up from the inside out. With tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a savory broth, this dish is perfect for cold nights or when you need a cozy bowl of comfort. Whether made on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or an Instant Pot, this recipe delivers a rich, satisfying stew every time. Serve it with crusty bread for the ultimate cozy meal!

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