There’s nothing quite as comforting as a hearty Classic Chicken Stew with Vegetables. Packed with tender chunks of chicken, earthy potatoes, sweet carrots, and aromatic herbs, this stew is a perfect warming dish for chilly evenings. The combination of simple ingredients simmered together creates a flavorful broth that brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables and the richness of the chicken.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Stew:
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal clean-up is required since everything is cooked in one pot, making this dish simple and convenient.
- Hearty and Filling: Loaded with protein and vegetables, this stew is not only comforting but also filling and nutritious.
- Rich and Flavorful: Slow-simmering the chicken and vegetables with herbs creates a broth that's deeply flavorful, while the tender chicken falls apart beautifully.
Key Ingredients:
- Chicken Thighs: Juicy and flavorful, chicken thighs work well for slow-cooking and add richness to the stew.
- Potatoes: Baby potatoes add heartiness and soak up the flavorful broth.
- Carrots: Sweet and tender, carrots complement the other vegetables with their vibrant flavor and color.
- Onions and Garlic: Essential for building a savory base, onions and garlic bring depth to the stew.
- Herbs: Bay leaves, thyme, and parsley provide a fragrant, earthy aroma that elevates the flavors.
- Broth: A good-quality chicken broth or stock enhances the stew and creates a rich, savory broth.
Quick Recipe: How to Make Classic Chicken Stew with Vegetables
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs chicken thighs (bone-in or boneless), cut into chunks
- 1 lb baby potatoes (red, yellow, or purple), halved
- 3-4 medium carrots, cut into thick slices
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or a few sprigs of fresh thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
Sear the Chicken:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the pot and brown on all sides, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Build the Stew:
- Add the chicken back to the pot along with the baby potatoes, carrots, bay leaves, and thyme. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the vegetables and chicken are mostly submerged. Bring the stew to a simmer, then lower the heat and cover. Let it cook for 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the chicken is cooked through.
Adjust Seasoning:
- Taste the stew and season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Remove the bay leaves and thyme sprigs before serving.
Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish the stew with fresh parsley and serve hot. This stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for soaking up the flavorful broth.
Variations and Tips:
- Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like peas, green beans, or celery for added color and flavor.
- Thicken the Broth: If you prefer a thicker stew, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the stew during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Make it Ahead: This stew tastes even better the next day, so it’s a great make-ahead dish. It also freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep.
- Serve Over Grains: For a heartier meal, you can serve the stew over rice or quinoa.
Why Chicken Stew is a Perfect Comfort Food:
- Wholesome and Nutritious: Packed with protein from the chicken and fiber from the vegetables, this stew is a nutritious meal that will keep you full and satisfied.
- Warm and Cozy: The slow-simmering process fills your home with the comforting aroma of herbs and chicken, making it an ideal dish for cold days.
- Versatile: You can easily customize the vegetables and seasonings to suit your taste or what you have on hand.
This Classic Chicken Stew with Vegetables is the perfect one-pot meal to warm you up and bring comfort to your table. It’s easy to make, full of nourishing ingredients, and packed with rich, savory flavors that everyone will love. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this stew is sure to be a hit!