Chicken Stew

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Stew is a comforting, hearty dish made with tender chicken pieces simmered in a flavorful broth with vegetables and herbs. Perfect for chilly days or whenever you need a satisfying, nourishing meal, this stew is rich, savory, and incredibly easy to prepare. It’s a classic one-pot meal that the whole family will enjoy.

ingredients

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

chicken thighs or breasts (boneless or bone-in)olive oiloniongarliccarrotscelerypotatoeschicken brothtomato pastebay leavesthymeparsleysalt and pepperflour (optional, for thickening)

directions

Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.

Add chicken and sear until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

In the same pot, sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and celery until softened.

Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes to enhance the flavor.

Return the chicken to the pot and add potatoes, bay leaves, thyme, and chicken broth.

Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for about 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.

For a thicker stew, mix 1 tablespoon of flour with a bit of water and stir into the stew during the last 10 minutes.

Season with salt and pepper to taste and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4-6 people.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 45 minutesTotal time: 1 hour

Variations

Add peas or green beans in the last 10 minutes for extra vegetables.

Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a different flavor profile.

Add a splash of cream or coconut milk for a richer stew.

Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker version—just simmer less time.

storage/reheating

Store chicken stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.It can be frozen for up to 3 months.Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until hot.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast works well, but thighs add more flavor and stay tender.

How do I make the stew thicker?

Use flour, cornstarch, or let it simmer uncovered longer to reduce the liquid.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Do I need to peel the potatoes?

Peeling is optional; just make sure they’re washed well if leaving the skin on.

What herbs work best in chicken stew?

Thyme, bay leaf, and parsley are classic choices, but rosemary or sage can also be used.

Can I make it spicy?

Yes, add chili flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat.

Is it gluten-free?

Use cornstarch instead of flour for thickening to make it gluten-free.

Can I add noodles or rice?

Yes, but cook them separately and add just before serving to avoid overcooking.

How can I reduce the fat?

Use skinless chicken and skim off excess fat during cooking.

Can I use canned vegetables?

Fresh is best for texture, but canned can be used in a pinch—just reduce simmer time.

Conclusion

Chicken Stew is a warm, filling dish that’s both easy to make and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or preparing a big batch for leftovers, this stew is sure to bring comfort and flavor to your table. Try it once and it may become your go-to cozy meal.

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