Hearty Chicken Stew
There’s something magical about a pot of chicken stew simmering away on the stove, filling the house with its savory aroma. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace that nourishes the body and soul, perfect for those chilly evenings or any day you crave something wholesome and satisfying. This Hearty Chicken Stew is a timeless classic, combining tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and fragrant herbs in a rich, flavorful broth that warms you from the inside out.
One of the beauties of chicken stew is its versatility and simplicity. It’s a dish that can be easily adapted to suit what’s in your pantry and fridge, making it a fantastic way to use up leftover vegetables or to tailor it to your family’s tastes. The combination of juicy chicken thighs or breasts, hearty potatoes, sweet carrots, and crisp celery creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors. The addition of peas and corn towards the end of cooking not only adds a splash of color but also a delightful sweetness that complements the savory elements beautifully.
Preparing this stew is an enjoyable process that brings out the chef in anyone, whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice. The method is straightforward, involving basic techniques like sautéing, browning, and simmering. These simple steps culminate in a dish that’s far greater than the sum of its parts. The dried thyme, rosemary, and oregano, along with the bay leaves, infuse the broth with an aromatic depth that makes each spoonful a joy to savor. As the stew simmers, it not only develops its rich flavor but also creates an inviting ambiance that draws everyone to the kitchen.
When served, this Hearty Chicken Stew becomes the centerpiece of a comforting, satisfying meal. Its robust flavors and nourishing ingredients make it a go-to dish for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even meal prepping for the week. Paired with crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth or a fresh salad on the side, it promises a dining experience that’s both hearty and wholesome. So, gather your ingredients and embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the warmth and simplicity of homemade chicken stew
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs (about 4) chicken thighs or breasts, boneless and skinless
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare Chicken:
- Cut chicken thighs or breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt and pepper.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Brown Chicken:
- Add chicken pieces to the pot and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Vegetables and Herbs:
- Add chopped carrots, celery, and potatoes to the pot.
- Stir in dried thyme, rosemary, oregano, and bay leaves.
- Add Liquids:
- Pour in the chicken broth, water, and the can of diced tomatoes (with juice).
- Stir everything together to combine.
- Simmer Stew:
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Cover and let it simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the chicken is cooked through.
- Add Frozen Vegetables:
- Stir in the frozen peas and corn.
- Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the frozen vegetables are heated through.
- Season and Serve:
- Remove bay leaves from the stew.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
Enjoy this comforting and hearty chicken stew with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad!