Introduction
This Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew has become one of my family’s all-time favorite meals. It’s the kind of dish that brings comfort and warmth on cold evenings, with its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients. Every time I make it, the house fills with delicious aromas, and by the time we sit down to eat, everyone is eagerly anticipating that first spoonful. The chicken is tender, the vegetables are perfectly cooked, and the broth is savory and satisfying. It’s a dish that I know my family can count on to feel cozy and full, and it never fails to please.
Why You’ll Love This Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew
This Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew is the epitome of comfort food. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out. With tender chunks of chicken, an assortment of vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth, this stew is filling without being heavy. It’s a perfect meal for busy weeknights when you want something wholesome and satisfying, but it also works wonderfully for meal prep or as leftovers. The simplicity of the ingredients, combined with the depth of flavor, makes it a recipe you’ll want to return to again and again.
Packed with vegetables and protein from the chicken, this stew is also a great option for a hearty, balanced meal. The addition of fresh herbs, like thyme and rosemary, elevate the flavor profile, giving it that comforting yet flavorful taste that everyone loves.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, cooked and shredded
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, cubed
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme or parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics:
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes until soft and translucent. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step helps to develop a great base of flavors. - Add Vegetables and Broth:
Add the sliced carrots, cubed potatoes, chicken broth, and water to the pot. Stir in tomato paste, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Allow it to cook for about 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. - Add Chicken and Peas:
Stir in the cooked and shredded chicken and the frozen peas. Let the stew simmer for another 5–10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and everything to heat through. You’ll notice the stew thickening as the potatoes break down slightly, making the broth even richer. - Serve:
Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for a touch of color and flavor. Serve hot, with crusty bread on the side for dipping.
Nutrition Facts
- Servings: 6
- Calories per serving: 300 kcal
This stew is relatively low in calories considering how hearty and filling it is. The combination of chicken, vegetables, and broth makes it a well-rounded, nutritious meal that is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious, satisfying dish without overindulging.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
This dish is quick and easy to prepare, with most of the time spent letting the stew simmer and develop its flavors. It’s the perfect meal for a busy evening when you want to get dinner on the table without spending hours in the kitchen.
How to Serve
- Garnish: Add fresh thyme or parsley on top for a pop of color and an extra burst of flavor.
- Accompaniments: Serve with crusty bread, which is perfect for dipping into the savory broth. You could also pair it with a simple green salad for added freshness.
- Leftovers: This stew makes great leftovers and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
- Sides: A side of roasted vegetables or a light grain like quinoa can make the meal even heartier.
Additional Tips
- Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add extra veggies like celery, parsnips, or green beans to the stew for even more flavor and nutrients.
- Use Chicken Thighs: If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts. They’ll add a richer flavor and stay moist even after simmering.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you like a little heat in your stew.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with other herbs such as oregano or sage for different flavor profiles.
- Make it Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk for a richer, creamier broth.
FAQ Section
- Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken in this recipe, but make sure to cook it thoroughly before adding it to the stew. If using frozen chicken, it’s best to cook it first in a separate pan or slow cooker. - Can I make this stew ahead of time?
Yes, this stew tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had more time to meld. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage. - What type of chicken should I use?
You can use either chicken breast or thighs. Chicken thighs will give you a richer, juicier stew, but chicken breasts work great too if you prefer leaner meat. - Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Absolutely! If you want a vegetarian version of this stew, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and replace the chicken with a plant-based protein like lentils or chickpeas. - Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this stew is naturally gluten-free as long as the chicken broth and other ingredients do not contain gluten. - How do I reheat leftovers?
You can reheat this stew on the stove over low heat, or in the microwave. If it has thickened too much, add a little extra broth or water to loosen it up. - Can I add more spices to this stew?
Yes, you can customize the spices to your liking. Try adding garlic powder, onion powder, or even curry powder for an extra kick. - What kind of potatoes work best?
Yukon gold or russet potatoes are ideal for this recipe. They break down slightly and help thicken the broth, but any variety you have on hand will work. - Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh peas if you prefer, though frozen peas are a convenient option that maintains their sweetness. - How can I make the stew thicker?
If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot, or you can stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little water to thicken it up.
This Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew is perfect for anyone looking for a satisfying and easy-to-make meal. With its savory broth, tender chicken, and hearty vegetables, it’s sure to be a family favorite for many years to come!