This Chicken Stew is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. It features tender chicken thighs, colorful vegetables, and a savory herb-infused broth that brings warmth and joy to any table. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a quiet night in, this stew is sure to impress with its rich flavors and satisfying texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and veggies, this stew will keep you satisfied for hours.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, anyone can whip up this delicious dish.
- Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or herbs for a personal touch.
- Perfect for Leftovers: This stew tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep or lunches.
- Family-Friendly: Kids will love the flavors, making it a hit for the whole family.
Tools and Preparation
Before you begin cooking your Chicken Stew, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process and ensure a delightful experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Slotted spoon
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Ideal for cooking the stew evenly and allowing room for all ingredients.
- Slotted spoon: Helps remove chicken easily without taking broth, ensuring proper browning.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe space to chop vegetables and chicken efficiently.
Ingredients
This chicken stew is a rich and hearty mix of tender chicken thighs, vegetables, and a light but flavorful herb-infused gravy.
Vegetables
- 1 yellow onion ($0.28)
- 3 ribs celery ($0.64)
- 4 cloves garlic ($0.32)
- 1/2 lb. carrots ($0.32)
Protein
- 1.75 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken thighs ($6.52)
Base Ingredients
- 4 Tbsp all-purpose flour, divided ($0.02)
- 2 Tbsp butter ($0.18)
- 1 Tbsp olive oil ($0.16)
Starch
- 1.5 lbs. baby potatoes ($2.89)
Seasoning
- 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)
Broth
- 2 cups chicken broth ($0.26)
- 2 cups vegetable broth ($0.26)
Garnish (optional)
- 1 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional) ($0.10)
How to Make Chicken Stew
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Dice the onion and celery, mince the garlic, slice the carrots, and cut the baby potatoes in half before you begin.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
Cut the chicken thighs into 1-inch pieces. Sprinkle 2 Tbsp of the flour over the chicken and toss until it is evenly coated.
Step 3: Brown the Chicken
Add the butter and olive oil to a large pot over medium heat until hot and sizzling.
– Add the flour-coated chicken to the pot.
– Allow it to brown on all sides without stirring initially.
Step 4: Cook the Vegetables
Once browned, remove the chicken using a slotted spoon.
– Add onion, celery, garlic, and carrots to the pot.
– Sauté until onions are soft while scraping browned bits off the bottom.
Step 5: Add Flour Again
Once softened:
– Add remaining 2 Tbsp flour to the pot.
– Sauté over medium heat for about two minutes until flour coats bottom again.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Return browned chicken to pot along with:
– Baby potatoes,
– Parsley,
– Thyme,
– Rosemary,
– Sage,
– Pepper,
– Chicken broth,
– Vegetable broth.
Stir to combine well.
Step 7: Simmer
Cover pot with lid; bring mixture to boil.
– Once boiling, remove lid and reduce heat to medium-low.
– Allow simmering without lid for about 30 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
Step 8: Final Touches
Taste your stew; add salt if needed based on broth’s salt content.
Add fresh chopped parsley if desired before serving hot.
This delicious Chicken Stew serves six generous portions of comfort that everyone will love!
How to Serve Chicken Stew
Serving chicken stew can elevate your meal experience, making it warm and inviting. Here are some delightful ways to present this hearty dish.
With Fresh Crusty Bread
- Pair your chicken stew with a loaf of fresh crusty bread. It’s perfect for soaking up the rich broth and adds a satisfying crunch to each bite.
Over Rice or Quinoa
- Serve the chicken stew over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa. This will add texture and make the meal even more filling.
Accompanied by a Green Salad
- A crisp green salad complements the warmth of chicken stew. Choose a simple vinaigrette to keep the focus on the stew’s flavors.
With Mashed Potatoes
- Enjoy chicken stew atop creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting twist. The potatoes absorb the gravy, creating a delicious combination.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme before serving. This not only enhances flavor but also adds a pop of color to your dish.
In Individual Bowls
- For a charming presentation, serve chicken stew in individual bowls. This makes it easy for guests to enjoy while adding an elegant touch to your table setting.
How to Perfect Chicken Stew
Perfecting chicken stew involves attention to detail and careful cooking techniques. Here are some tips to enhance your dish.
- Choose Quality Ingredients – Use fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken thighs for the best flavor.
- Brown the Chicken Well – Take time to brown the chicken properly; this adds depth and richness to the stew.
- Adjust Seasonings – Always taste before serving; adjust salt and pepper as needed for optimal flavor.
- Simmer Slowly – Allowing the stew to simmer gently helps meld all the flavors together beautifully.
- Use Homemade Broth – If possible, use homemade chicken broth for added richness and health benefits.
- Let it Rest – Letting the stew sit for a few minutes after cooking can deepen its flavors before serving.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken Stew
Pairing side dishes with chicken stew can enhance your meal experience. Consider these options that complement its hearty nature.
- Garlic Bread – A classic choice, garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the savory broth.
- Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies provide additional nutrients and textures alongside your stew.
- Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing crunch that balances the warmth of chicken stew.
- Cornbread – Sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully with savory stews, making every bite delightful.
- Steamed Green Beans – Lightly steamed green beans add color and freshness that contrast nicely with rich flavors.
- Baked Potatoes – Serve baked potatoes as another comforting starch that soaks up extra gravy beautifully.
- Couscous Salad – A light couscous salad with lemon dressing can provide an interesting twist alongside your chicken stew.
- Cheesy Polenta – Creamy polenta topped with cheese makes for an indulgent side that complements the dish perfectly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making chicken stew, it’s easy to overlook a few key details that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.
- Skipping the Browning Step: Failing to brown the chicken thighs can result in a lack of depth in flavor. Always take the time to brown your chicken thoroughly before adding other ingredients.
- Not Deglazing the Pot: If you skip deglazing, you miss out on delicious browned bits that add richness. Use the moisture from your sautéed vegetables to scrape up these flavors.
- Overcooking Vegetables: Cooking vegetables too long can make them mushy. Aim for a tender yet firm texture by sautéing just until they start to soften before adding broth.
- Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Taste as you go! Undersalting can lead to bland stew. Adjust seasonings based on your broth’s saltiness for optimal flavor.
- Using Wrong Pot Size: A pot that’s too small will crowd the ingredients, affecting cooking time and texture. Choose a large enough pot to allow for even cooking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keeps well for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Chicken Stew
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating Chicken Stew
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 3-5 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
- Stovetop: Simmer over low heat for about 10-15 minutes, stirring frequently until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here’s a look at some common questions about chicken stew.
How do I thicken my Chicken Stew?
To thicken your chicken stew, you can add a slurry made of flour and water or let it simmer uncovered longer to reduce the liquid.
Can I use different vegetables in Chicken Stew?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables like peas, green beans, or corn for added flavor and nutrition.
Is Chicken Stew healthy?
Yes! This chicken stew is packed with protein from chicken thighs and nutrients from various vegetables, making it a wholesome meal option.
How do I know when my Chicken Stew is done?
The stew is done when the potatoes are tender and the chicken is cooked through. The broth should also be thickened slightly.
Can I make Chicken Stew in advance?
Yes! In fact, making it ahead of time allows flavors to meld together beautifully. Store it in the refrigerator or freeze for later use.
Final Thoughts
This chicken stew recipe offers a warm and comforting dish perfect for any dinner table. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite ingredients or herbs. Give this delightful recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Chicken Stew
Warm up your evenings with this Chicken Stew, a heartwarming dish that combines tender chicken thighs, vibrant vegetables, and a savory herb-infused broth. Perfect for chilly nights or family gatherings, this stew is not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to prepare. With rich flavors and a delightful texture, it’s destined to become a favorite at your dinner table. Customize it with your preferred veggies and herbs for a personal touch, and enjoy leftovers that taste even better the next day. Serve it with crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal that’s sure to impress everyone.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Comfort Food
Ingredients
- 1.75 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 yellow onion
- 3 ribs celery
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1/2 lb carrots
- 1.5 lbs baby potatoes
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- Assorted herbs (parsley, thyme, rosemary, sage)
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by dicing onion and celery, mincing garlic, slicing carrots, and halving baby potatoes.
- Coat chicken thighs in flour and brown in butter and olive oil in a large pot.
- Remove browned chicken; sauté vegetables until softened and deglaze pot.
- Add remaining flour, return chicken to pot with herbs and broths.
- Simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Adjust seasoning if necessary before serving hot.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
