Chicken Stew Recipe

Chicken stew is a timeless comfort food that warms both body and soul, making it perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. This recipe combines tender chicken, wholesome vegetables, and savory broth for a dish that’s as delicious as it is satisfying.

Ingredients:

• Chicken: 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Vegetables: 2 carrots, peeled and sliced; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 1 onion, diced; 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
• Tomatoes: 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• Broth: 4 cups chicken broth
• Herbs: 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 bay leaf
• Seasoning: Salt and pepper to taste
• Oil: 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Flour: 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
2. Saute Vegetables: In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the diced onion, carrots, celery, and potatoes. Cook until the vegetables begin to soften, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Make the Stew Base: Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add the diced tomatoes, dried thyme, bay leaf, and return the chicken pieces to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Simmer and Cook: Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the stew simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Serve: Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the chicken stew into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or over cooked rice for a complete meal.

Tips for Success:

• Chicken Thighs: Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs ensures tender, flavorful meat that won’t dry out during cooking.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to customize your stew with additional vegetables like peas, green beans, or mushrooms.
• Make Ahead: Chicken stew tastes even better the next day as flavors meld. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

Conclusion:

This chicken stew recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With its rich flavors and comforting warmth, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the simple pleasures of a homemade meal with this hearty and satisfying dish!