Description

There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of homemade chicken stew to bring warmth and comfort to your soul. This Hearty Chicken & Veggie Delight Stew is packed with tender, juicy chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a flavorful broth that will make you feel cozy with every spoonful. Whether you’re craving something nourishing on a chilly night or looking for a wholesome meal to feed the family, this stew is the perfect choice.

Made with simple, wholesome ingredients, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite veggies or spices. Serve it with a side of crusty bread, rice, or even over mashed potatoes for a heartier meal. Let’s dive into this warm and comforting recipe!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Stew:

1.5 lbs chicken breast, diced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
4 medium carrots, sliced
2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 cup green beans, trimmed and halved
1 cup frozen peas
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup water
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste

For Thickening (Optional):

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons water

For Garnish:

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until lightly browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. The goal isn’t to cook it through completely, just to get some good flavor. Once browned, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Aromatics

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. This step lays the foundation for a rich and flavorful stew.

Step 3: Add the Veggies

Toss in the sliced carrots, cubed potatoes, and green beans. Stir everything together and let the vegetables cook for about 5 minutes. This helps develop their flavor before adding the broth.

Step 4: Pour in the Broth

Now, it’s time to add the liquid. Pour in the chicken broth and 1 cup of water, then sprinkle in the dried thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 5: Simmer to Perfection

Once the stew is boiling, return the cooked chicken to the pot. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the stew simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the chicken is fully cooked. The flavors will meld together beautifully during this time.

Step 6: Thicken the Stew (Optional)

If you prefer a thicker stew, mix 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Slowly stir it into the stew and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes until thickened.

Step 7: Add the Final Touches

Stir in the frozen peas and let them cook for about 5 minutes. The residual heat will warm them through while keeping their bright green color. Finally, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a fresh, herby finish.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the stew into bowls and enjoy it hot! Serve with crusty bread, rice, or mashed potatoes for a heartier meal.

Notes

Customize the Veggies: Swap potatoes for sweet potatoes or add greens like spinach.
Enhance Flavor: A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the dish.
Thicker Stew? Mash some potatoes or add a flour slurry.
Slow Cooker Friendly: Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours (add peas and parsley last 30 minutes).
Freezer-Friendly: Store for up to 3 months; thaw overnight before reheating.