Introduction

Making Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew has quickly become one of my go-to recipes for the colder months. The rich, savory flavors and the comforting, wholesome nature of this dish make it perfect for cozy family dinners. On a recent Sunday, I made this stew for my family, and everyone loved it! The combination of tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and fragrant herbs was a hit, and it was a great way to warm up after a long day. This stew also pairs beautifully with a loaf of crusty bread, perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth. I’m certain this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen too!

Why You’ll Love Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew

Comforting and Filling: This stew is the perfect balance of tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and flavorful broth. It’s a filling meal that’s sure to satisfy even the hungriest appetites.
Nutritious and Balanced: Packed with vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and peas, this dish provides a good dose of vitamins and fiber, making it a wholesome choice for any meal.
Quick and Easy: Despite being so flavorful, this stew is surprisingly simple to make. With just a few basic ingredients and minimal prep, you can have a delicious, comforting meal ready in about 45 minutes.
Perfect for Meal Prep: This stew is even better the next day! The flavors have time to meld, making it an ideal choice for preparing in advance for busy weeknights.
Kid-Friendly: The mild flavors and tender chicken make this stew a hit with kids as well as adults, making it a great option for family dinners.

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 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Add Vegetables and Broth:
Stir in the sliced carrots, cubed potatoes, chicken broth, and water. Mix in the tomato paste, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have developed.
Add Chicken and Peas:
Once the vegetables are cooked through, stir in the shredded chicken and frozen peas. Let the stew simmer for another 5–10 minutes until everything is heated through and well combined.
Serve:
Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for a pop of color. Serve hot with a side of crusty bread for dipping into the delicious broth.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 300 kcal

This hearty stew is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients, making it a great option for a nutritious and filling meal. It’s perfect for those looking to enjoy a wholesome dish without compromising on taste.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

This quick prep and cook time make this stew an ideal option for busy weeknights when you need a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

How to Serve

With Crusty Bread: The thick, flavorful broth in this stew pairs perfectly with a slice of crusty bread for dipping.
As a Stand-Alone Meal: This stew is filling enough to be a meal on its own, but it also makes a great accompaniment to a salad or side dish.
With Rice: For an extra hearty meal, serve the stew over steamed rice. The broth soaks into the rice, creating a comforting, satisfying dish.
As Leftovers: This stew keeps well in the fridge and is even better the next day, making it a great meal prep option for lunch or dinner.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme adds a touch of freshness and brightness to the stew.

Additional Tips

Use Bone-In Chicken for Extra Flavor: For a richer flavor, try using bone-in chicken thighs or breasts. Simply remove the bones before shredding the chicken for the stew.
Swap Vegetables to Suit Your Taste: This stew is highly versatile—feel free to add other vegetables like celery, parsnips, or green beans to make it your own.
Make it Spicy: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some finely chopped jalapeños to the stew for a spicy kick.
Add a Splash of Cream: For an extra creamy texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half during the last few minutes of simmering.
Slow Cooker Option: To make this stew even easier, you can prepare it in the slow cooker. Simply sauté the onions and garlic, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

FAQ

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully in this stew. They add extra flavor and remain tender when shredded.

2. Can I make this stew ahead of time?
Yes! This stew can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

3. Can I freeze this stew?
Yes, you can freeze the stew for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container for freezing. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave when ready to serve.

4. How can I make the stew thicker?
If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mash some of the potatoes with a potato masher or blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender to create a creamier texture.

5. Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh peas can be used in place of frozen peas. Add them in during the last few minutes of cooking to prevent them from overcooking.

6. How can I make this stew gluten-free?
This stew is naturally gluten-free, so no modifications are needed.

7. Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Yes, vegetable broth is a great substitute if you’re looking to make this stew vegetarian or vegan.

8. How do I store leftover stew?
Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave when ready to serve.

9. Can I add more spices to this recipe?
Absolutely! If you want to enhance the flavor, you can add a pinch of paprika, bay leaves, or oregano for additional depth of flavor.

10. Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes, you can use any type of potato you like. Yukon Golds or red potatoes work particularly well in this stew.

Conclusion

Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for family dinners and meal prepping. With its rich broth, tender chicken, and hearty vegetables, it’s sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Easy to make and packed with nutrients, this stew is the perfect way to warm up on a chilly evening. Whether served with crusty bread or over rice, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your household. Try it out, and enjoy a bowl of pure comfort!