This Chicken Stew is the perfect comfort food, bringing together tender chicken thighs and a medley of vegetables simmered in a flavorful broth. It’s an ideal dish for cozy family dinners or when you need something hearty and satisfying. The rich, herb-infused gravy elevates this meal, making it both simple and special enough for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and Filling: This chicken stew provides a substantial meal with protein and vegetables that keep you satisfied.
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can whip up this delicious dish without stress.
- Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to substitute vegetables based on what you have at home; this recipe is adaptable!
- Flavorful Gravy: The herb-infused gravy adds depth and richness to the stew, making every bite delightful.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This chicken stew tastes even better the next day, making it great for leftovers or meal prep.
Tools and Preparation
To make this Chicken Stew, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Slotted spoon
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: A spacious pot accommodates all ingredients comfortably while allowing for even cooking.
- Slotted spoon: Ideal for removing browned chicken without excess grease, keeping your stew light.
- Sharp knife: Ensures precise cuts on vegetables and chicken, which can help with even cooking times.
Ingredients
This chicken stew is a rich and hearty mix of tender chicken thighs, vegetables, and a light but flavorful herb-infused gravy.
For the Base
- 1 yellow onion ($0.28)
- 3 ribs celery ($0.64)
- 4 cloves garlic ($0.32)
- 1/2 lb. carrots ($0.32)
For the Chicken
- 1.75 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken thighs ($6.52)
- 4 Tbsp all-purpose flour, divided ($0.02)
For Cooking
- 2 Tbsp butter ($0.18)
- 1 Tbsp olive oil ($0.16)
For the Veggies
- 1.5 lbs. baby potatoes ($2.89)
- 1 tsp dried parsley ($0.10)
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme ($0.05)
- 1/2 tsp dried rosemary ($0.05)
- 1/2 tsp dried sage ($0.05)
- 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper ($0.02)
For the Broth
- 2 cups chicken broth ($0.26)
- 2 cups vegetable broth ($0.26)
Optional Garnish
- 1 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional) ($0.10)
How to Make Chicken Stew
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by dicing the onion and celery, mincing the garlic, slicing the carrots, and cutting the baby potatoes in half.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
Cut the chicken thighs into 1-inch pieces. Sprinkle 2 Tbsp of flour over the chicken and toss until evenly coated.
Step 3: Heat the Pot
Add butter and olive oil to a large pot over medium heat until hot and sizzling.
Step 4: Brown the Chicken
Add the flour-coated chicken to the pot; brown it on all sides without stirring initially. Once browned, remove it with a slotted spoon to a clean bowl.
Step 5: Sauté Vegetables
Add onion, celery, garlic, and carrots to the pot; sauté until onions are soft, using moisture from vegetables to scrape browned bits off the bottom.
Step 6: Add More Flour
Add remaining 2 Tbsp flour to sautéed vegetables; cook over medium heat for about two minutes until coated again.
Step 7: Combine Everything
Return browned chicken to pot along with potatoes, herbs (parsley, thyme, rosemary, sage), pepper, chicken broth, and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine.
Step 8: Simmer
Cover pot; bring mixture to a boil. Once boiling, remove lid and reduce heat to medium-low; let simmer for about 30 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
Step 9: Final Touches
Taste your stew! Add salt if needed (salt content varies by broth). Optionally add fresh chopped parsley before serving hot.
Enjoy your hearty bowl of Chicken Stew!
How to Serve Chicken Stew
Chicken stew is a comforting dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking for a simple meal or an impressive dinner, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.
With Crusty Bread
- Sourdough or French Bread: Perfect for dipping into the rich broth, crusty bread adds a delightful texture.
- Garlic Bread: The buttery garlic flavor complements the stew beautifully.
Over Rice
- White Rice: A simple base that absorbs the flavors of the stew.
- Brown Rice: For a healthier option, brown rice offers a nutty taste and chewy texture.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Parsley: Adds a pop of color and fresh flavor.
- Thyme Sprigs: A few sprigs on top can enhance the aroma and presentation.
Paired with Salad
- Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing contrasts nicely with the savory stew.
- Mixed Green Salad: Light and refreshing, it balances out the hearty dish.
How to Perfect Chicken Stew
To achieve a delicious chicken stew, follow these helpful tips for the best results.
- Use Quality Chicken: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for tenderness and flavor.
- Brown the Chicken Well: Ensure you get a nice golden color on the chicken to enhance the stew’s depth.
- Don’t Rush the Vegetables: Sauté onions and garlic until soft; this builds a flavorful base.
- Simmer Gently: Allowing the stew to simmer slowly helps meld all the flavors together beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken Stew
Chicken stew pairs well with various side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Here are some great options:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort and soak up the stew’s broth well.
- Steamed Broccoli: A healthy green option that adds color and crunch to your meal.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These add a caramelized flavor that contrasts nicely with the stew.
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is an excellent accompaniment for sopping up leftover broth.
- Coleslaw: The crunchy texture of coleslaw offers a refreshing bite alongside your warm bowl of stew.
- Quinoa Salad: Light yet filling, quinoa salad adds nutrients without overwhelming flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making chicken stew, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish. Here are common mistakes to avoid.
- Skipping the browning step – Failing to brown the chicken properly can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Always ensure the chicken is nicely browned before adding other ingredients.
- Using too much broth – Adding excess broth can dilute the flavors. Stick to the recommended amounts for a balanced taste.
- Neglecting vegetable prep – Not prepping your vegetables ahead of time can slow down your cooking process. Have everything diced and ready before you start.
- Not letting it simmer long enough – Rushing the cooking time will result in tough chicken and undercooked potatoes. Allow the stew to simmer until everything is tender.
- Over-seasoning at once – Adding all herbs and spices at the start may overpower your dish. Season gradually, tasting as you go to achieve perfect balance.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Allow the stew to cool completely before sealing it in a container.
Freezing Chicken Stew
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Make sure to leave some space at the top of the container for expansion during freezing.
Reheating Chicken Stew
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop – Place in a pot over medium heat and stir occasionally until heated throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about chicken stew that might help you while preparing this delicious meal.
What is chicken stew?
Chicken stew is a hearty dish made with chicken, vegetables, and broth, often thickened with flour or another agent for a rich consistency.
Can I use different types of meat?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with turkey or even beef, but adjust cooking times accordingly for different meats.
How do I make chicken stew gluten-free?
To make chicken stew gluten-free, replace all-purpose flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour blends when thickening.
Can I customize my chicken stew?
Absolutely! Feel free to add different vegetables or spices based on your preferences. Potatoes, peas, and corn are great additions!
How long does it take to cook chicken stew?
The total time for making this chicken stew is about 60 minutes—15 minutes of prep and 45 minutes of cooking.
Is chicken stew healthy?
Yes! Chicken stew is nutritious, packed with protein from the chicken and vitamins from various vegetables.
Final Thoughts
This comforting chicken stew is not only satisfying but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite veggies or spices. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Chicken Stew
Indulge in the heartwarming goodness of our Chicken Stew—a cozy dish that perfectly combines tender chicken thighs with a vibrant medley of vegetables, all simmered in a rich, herb-infused broth. Ideal for family dinners or chilly nights, this stew is not just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that warms the soul. Enjoy the delightful flavors and textures in every bite, making it a staple for your winter cooking repertoire. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and great for meal prep, as it tastes even better the next day!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Comfort Food
Ingredients
- 1 yellow onion
- 3 ribs celery
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1/2 lb. carrots
- 1.75 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1.5 lbs. baby potatoes
- Fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, rosemary, sage)
Instructions
- Dice onion and celery, mince garlic, slice carrots, and cut baby potatoes in half.
- Cut chicken into 1-inch pieces and coat with flour.
- Heat butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Brown the chicken on all sides; remove from pot.
- Sauté onion, celery, garlic, and carrots until soft.
- Add remaining flour to vegetables and cook for two minutes.
- Return chicken to pot; add potatoes, herbs, pepper, and broths.
- Bring to boil; cover and simmer on medium-low for 30 minutes until tender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning; garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 325
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
