Description of this recipe
This Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew is a warm, comforting dish that epitomizes home-cooked goodness. Loaded with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a rich broth, this stew is perfect for chilly evenings or any time you crave a nourishing meal. The combination of herbs and spices adds depth to the flavor, making it a delightful dish for the whole family.
Why you will love this recipe
You will love this recipe for its simplicity and versatility. It’s not only easy to prepare but also allows you to customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand. The stew is packed with wholesome ingredients, making it a nutritious option. Plus, it can be made in one pot, which means less cleanup! With a cooking time of under an hour, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Introduction
As the temperatures drop and the days grow shorter, there’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of chicken and vegetable stew to warm your soul. This recipe is a family favorite that has been passed down through generations, each adding their own twist. The beauty of this stew lies in its adaptability; you can throw in any leftover vegetables or adjust the seasoning to suit your taste. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, this stew is sure to satisfy.
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)
Preparation:
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, or until fragrant.
Step 2: Add Vegetables and Broth
Next, add the sliced carrots and cubed potatoes to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and water, then stir in the tomato paste along with the dried thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 3: Simmer Until Tender
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the stew simmer for about 20 minutes. This allows the vegetables to cook through and become tender. Stir occasionally to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Step 4: Incorporate Chicken and Peas
After the vegetables are tender, stir in the shredded chicken and frozen peas. Allow the stew to simmer for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until everything is heated through and well combined.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve hot, ideally with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.
Serving Suggestions:
This Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew pairs beautifully with a slice of crusty sourdough bread or a warm baguette. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. You can also enjoy it with a glass of white wine, which complements the flavors of the stew nicely.
Tips:
- Customize your vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Green beans, bell peppers, or corn can all make great additions.
- Make it heartier: For an even heartier stew, consider adding some beans or lentils for extra protein and fiber.
- Storage: This stew keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes beautifully, so you can make a large batch and enjoy it later.
- Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the stew, as it may thicken when stored.
- Season to taste: Always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your palate.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: ~300 kcal per serving
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 600mg
Conclusion
This Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew is not just a meal; it’s a warm embrace on a cold day. Packed with nutrients and flavor, it’s the perfect dish to gather around the table with family and friends. Whether you’re looking for comfort food or a way to use up leftover chicken, this stew checks all the boxes. So grab your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy a bowl of this delicious stew today!
Questions and Answers about this recipe:
Q1: Can I use frozen chicken instead of cooked chicken?
A1: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just add it to the pot at the beginning with the vegetables and broth. Cook it until fully cooked, then shred it before serving.
Q2: What can I substitute for chicken broth?
A2: If you don’t have chicken broth, you can use vegetable broth or even water with a bouillon cube for flavor.
Q3: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A3: Yes, this stew is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free broth and ensure that any additional ingredients are also gluten-free.
Q4: How can I make this stew spicier?
A4: To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or even a diced jalapeño during the sautéing step.
Q5: Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
A5: Absolutely! You can sauté the aromatics in a skillet first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Just add the peas and chicken in the last 30 minutes of cooking.