Name: Chicken Stew Recipe: Hearty and Comforting
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 1/2 lbs boneless (skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces); 1 tsp kosher salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 medium onion (diced); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 2 medium carrots (sliced); 2 celery stalks (sliced); 3 medium potatoes (peeled and diced); 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp dried rosemary; 1 bay leaf; 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 cup frozen peas; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional); 2 tbsp water (optional); Optional: Fresh parsley (thyme); Suggested Pairings: Crusty bread (white wine)

Introduction

Table of Contents

Chicken Stew is a classic main dish, perfect for family dinners, cozy gatherings, or comforting meals. This hearty stew, featuring tender chicken, vegetables, and a savory broth, delivers a warm, satisfying flavor with a rich, comforting texture. Presented in a white ceramic pot or bowl, optionally garnished with chopped fresh parsley or thyme, this Chicken Stew recipe offers a hearty, appetizing aesthetic that elevates any table. This recipe provides a simple, homemade version, adaptable for dietary preferences, ideal for home cooks seeking a crowd-pleasing dish that brings cozy charm to any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Stew:

1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 tsp kosher salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
1 bay leaf
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup frozen peas
2 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
2 tbsp water (optional, for flour slurry)

For Serving:

Optional: Chopped fresh parsley, thyme
Suggested Accompaniments: Crusty bread, rice
Suggested Pairings: White wine, herbal tea
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve in a white ceramic pot or bowl
Suggested Equipment: Large pot or Dutch oven, knife, cutting board, wooden spoon, measuring cups/spoons

Step-by-Step Process

Season and Brown Chicken: Season chicken pieces with salt and black pepper. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned. Remove chicken and set aside.
Cook Vegetables: In the same pot, reduce the heat to medium. Add onion, carrots, and celery; cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add Potatoes and Seasonings: Add potatoes, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
Simmer Stew: Return chicken to the pot. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25–30 minutes, or until chicken is tender and potatoes are soft.
Thicken (Optional): For a thicker stew, mix flour and water to form a slurry. Stir into the stew and cook for 5 minutes until thickened. Add frozen peas and cook for 2 minutes.
Taste and Adjust: Remove bay leaf. Taste the stew and adjust with a pinch of salt, pepper, or thyme for balanced flavor. If too thick, add 1/4 cup broth; if too thin, simmer uncovered for 5 minutes.
Serve: Transfer Chicken Stew to a white ceramic pot or bowl. Optionally garnish with chopped fresh parsley or thyme. Serve with crusty bread, rice, white wine, or herbal tea.

Tips for Better Chicken Stew

Brown chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding and ensure even browning.
Taste the stew before serving to balance savory, herby, and hearty flavors; adjust cautiously.
Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness; adjust seasoning at the end.
Cut vegetables uniformly for even cooking.
Present in a white ceramic pot or bowl to highlight the rich stew and garnishes.
Make ahead: Prepare up to 2 days in advance; refrigerate and reheat gently, adding a splash of broth if needed.
For a richer flavor, add 1 tbsp tomato paste with the vegetables.
Enhance aesthetic: Garnish with parsley or thyme for a fresh, vibrant look.

Variations and Customization

Gluten-Free Chicken Stew: Omit flour or use 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water for thickening; ensure broth is gluten-free.
Low-Sodium Chicken Stew: Use no-salt-added broth and reduce salt to 1/2 tsp.
Spicy Chicken Stew: Add 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes or 1 diced jalapeño with vegetables.
Vegetarian Stew: Replace chicken with 2 cups diced mushrooms or lentils; use vegetable broth.
Creamy Chicken Stew: Stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk before serving.
Herb-Forward Chicken Stew: Add 1 tsp fresh sage or 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley with the dried herbs.
Root Vegetable Chicken Stew: Replace potatoes with parsnips or turnips.
Slow Cooker Chicken Stew: Brown chicken and vegetables, then transfer to a slow cooker with remaining ingredients; cook on low for 6–8 hours.

Storage and Serving Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge and reheat gently to preserve texture.
Serve hot for the best flavor and comforting warmth.
Use as a main dish with starchy sides like bread or rice for a complete meal.
Pair with white wine or herbal tea to complement the savory, herby flavors.
Present in a white ceramic pot or bowl with garnishes for an appetizing, cozy charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 6 servings (1 1/2 cups each, without flour):

Calories: 280 kcal
Total Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2.5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 75mg
Sodium: 480mg
Total Carbohydrates: 20g
Dietary Fiber: 4g
Sugars: 5g
Protein: 24g
Vitamin A: 70% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 25% Daily Value
Calcium: 6% Daily Value
Iron: 10% Daily Value

Note: Values vary by ingredient brands and substitutions (low-sodium options reduce sodium to ~300mg). High in protein and vitamin A; enjoy bread for balance.

Conclusion

This Chicken Stew recipe delivers a hearty, comforting dish perfect for any occasion, transforming simple ingredients into a cozy classic. Its straightforward preparation and warm presentation make it a favorite. The tender chicken and savory broth delight every spoonful. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its crowd-pleasing warmth.