Hearty Chicken Stew Recipe

When it comes to cozy, comforting meals, nothing beats a classic chicken stew recipe.

This warm, flavorful dish is perfect for chilly evenings, family dinners, or when you need something hearty to nourish your body and soul.

With tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a rich, savory broth, this chicken stew will quickly become a family favorite.

Also Check: Homemade buffalo chicken dip

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Why You’ll Love This Chicken Stew

Simple ingredients – Most are pantry staples.
One-pot wonder – Easy to cook and clean up.
Versatile – Great for meal prep and reheats beautifully.
Healthy & filling – Packed with protein and vegetables.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious chicken stew:

1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts), cut into chunks
2 tbsp olive oil (Amazon Extra Virgin Olive Oil)
1 large onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced (Garlic Press Tool)
3 carrots, sliced
3 celery stalks, chopped
2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced (Stainless Steel Vegetable Peeler)
4 cups chicken broth (Low Sodium Chicken Broth)
1 cup frozen peas
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp all-purpose flour (for thickening)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven (Lodge Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven) over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until lightly browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

2. Cook the Vegetables

In the same pot, add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they start to soften. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.

3. Build the Flavor Base

Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well to coat. This will help thicken the stew later. Gradually add chicken broth while stirring to avoid lumps.

4. Simmer the Stew

Add the browned chicken back to the pot, along with potatoes, thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30–40 minutes, or until chicken is tender and vegetables are cooked through.

5. Finish and Serve

Stir in the peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Remove the bay leaf, adjust seasoning, and serve hot with crusty bread.

Tips for the Best Chicken Stew

Use chicken thighs for richer flavor and tenderness.
Thicken naturally by mashing a few potato chunks into the broth.
Add extra veggies like corn, mushrooms, or green beans for variety.

Suggested Amazon Kitchen Tools

Lodge Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven – Perfect for slow simmering stews.
Professional Garlic Press – Mince garlic effortlessly.
Stainless Steel Vegetable Peeler – Makes prep work faster and easier.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil – High-quality oil for searing and sautéing.
Low Sodium Chicken Broth – A flavorful base for your stew.

FAQs About Chicken Stew Recipe

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes! While chicken thighs give a richer flavor and stay juicier, chicken breasts work just fine. Just be careful not to overcook them so they don’t become dry.

2. Can I make chicken stew in a slow cooker?
Absolutely. Brown the chicken and sauté the veggies first for extra flavor, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

3. How can I thicken my chicken stew?
You can use a flour or cornstarch slurry, or simply mash a few potato chunks directly in the pot to naturally thicken the broth.

4. Can I freeze chicken stew?
Yes, chicken stew freezes well. Let it cool completely, then store in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

5. How do I reheat chicken stew without it separating?
Reheat gently over low heat on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to restore the consistency.

6. Can I make chicken stew dairy-free?
Yes. This recipe is naturally dairy-free, but make sure your broth doesn’t contain hidden dairy products.

7. What can I serve with chicken stew?
Crusty bread, biscuits, cornbread, or a fresh side salad all pair wonderfully with chicken stew.

8. Can I add noodles or rice to chicken stew?
Yes, but cook them separately and add them just before serving to avoid sogginess.

9. How do I add more flavor to chicken stew?
Fresh herbs, a splash of white wine, or a dash of smoked paprika can deepen the flavor.

10. Is chicken stew healthy?
Yes! It’s full of lean protein and nutrient-rich vegetables. Using low-sodium broth and minimal oil keeps it heart-healthy.

Final Thoughts

This chicken stew recipe is the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out.

It’s wholesome, budget-friendly, and can be made in large batches for meal prepping. Pair it with warm bread or biscuits, and you have a complete, satisfying dinner.