When the weather cools down or when you’re simply craving a bowl of comfort, nothing hits the spot quite like a Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew. This dish combines tender chicken, wholesome vegetables, and a flavorful broth that warms you from the inside out. Perfect for family dinners, cozy gatherings, or meal prepping for the week, this stew is one of those timeless recipes that never fails to please.
Unlike lighter soups, this stew is thick, hearty, and satisfying—filled with chunks of chicken, potatoes, carrots, and aromatic herbs. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned home cook, this recipe is straightforward, delicious, and guaranteed to become part of your regular rotation.
Why This Recipe Works
Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor – Everyday staples like chicken, potatoes, and carrots come together with garlic and onion to create layers of flavor without requiring fancy ingredients.
One-Pot Meal – Everything cooks in a single pot, making cleanup easy while allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully.
Customizable – Swap in your favorite vegetables or add extra herbs to make it your own.
Perfectly Balanced – Protein from the chicken, starch from the potatoes, and nutrients from the vegetables make this stew not just delicious but also well-rounded and nourishing.
Comfort Factor – Few meals rival the cozy, soul-soothing comfort of a bowl of chicken stew on a chilly evening.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what goes into making this hearty dish:
1 lb chicken breast or thighs (cooked and shredded): Thighs add more richness, while breasts are leaner. Both work wonderfully.
2 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing the vegetables and building flavor.
1 large onion, chopped: A base ingredient that brings sweetness and depth.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for that classic savory flavor.
3 carrots, sliced: Adds sweetness and color.
3 medium potatoes, cubed: These make the stew hearty and filling.
2 celery stalks, chopped (optional but recommended): Adds extra crunch and flavor.
1 cup frozen peas or green beans: A pop of green that brightens the dish.
6 cups chicken broth: The foundation of the stew—use homemade or store-bought.
1 tsp dried thyme (or 2 tsp fresh): Earthy, herby flavor that pairs perfectly with chicken.
1 bay leaf: Adds depth and richness to the broth.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Enhances all the flavors.
Fresh parsley (for garnish): Adds a pop of freshness before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
If you’re starting with raw chicken, cook the breasts or thighs in a skillet or poach them in water or broth until fully cooked. Shred with two forks and set aside.
Sauté the Base
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
Add the Vegetables
Stir in carrots, potatoes, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes to let the flavors develop.
Build the Broth
Pour in chicken broth, then add thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir well. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Add Chicken and Peas
Stir in the shredded chicken and peas (or green beans). Let the stew simmer for another 5–7 minutes to heat everything through.
Final Touches
Remove the bay leaf, taste, and adjust seasonings if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Tips + Tricks for Recipe Success
For a Thicker Stew: Mash a few potato cubes against the side of the pot and stir them in to naturally thicken the broth.
Shortcut Option: Use rotisserie chicken to cut down prep time.
Herb Variations: Swap thyme with rosemary, sage, or Italian seasoning for a twist.
Make It Creamy: Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a creamy version.
Freezer-Friendly: This stew freezes beautifully. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with crusty bread or warm dinner rolls to soak up the broth.
A side of buttered noodles or fluffy rice pairs perfectly.
Add a simple green salad for a fresh contrast.
For extra comfort, top each bowl with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze in single-portion containers for easy grab-and-heat meals.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat or microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each.
Why You’ll Love Making This Stew Again & Again
This Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew is one of those recipes you’ll come back to whenever you need a nourishing, filling, and flavorful meal. It’s family-friendly, budget-friendly, and adaptable for whatever you have on hand. Plus, it makes your kitchen smell incredible while it simmers away on the stove!
Whether you enjoy it on a chilly winter night, pack it in containers for lunch throughout the week, or serve it to guests at a casual dinner, this stew will always leave people asking for seconds.
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