There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Hearty Chicken Stew to wrap you in a blanket of comfort, especially on chilly days. This recipe is one that I’ve been making ever since my sister introduced me to it during those cold winter evenings we spent huddled together with a good book. The rich aroma of the bubbling stew would waft through the house, drawing us into the kitchen like moths to a flame. I love how it combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs in a cozy medley that fills you up and warms your soul. Plus, the leftovers taste even better the next day, which is always a bonus!
What I adore about this stew is its versatility. You can throw in whatever vegetables you have on hand, making it a great way to use up leftovers. It’s hearty enough to be a stand-alone meal, but I often pair it with a crunchy piece of bread to soak up the delicious broth. Trust me when I say that this Hearty Chicken Stew will soon become a staple in your kitchen just like it has in mine!
What’s in Hearty Chicken Stew?
Chicken thighs: These are my go-to for stews because the bone-in, skin-on variety gives depth of flavor and keeps the meat juicy. Look for organic chicken thighs if you can – they often have a richer taste!
Olive oil: I love using extra virgin olive oil for sautéing. It adds a lovely flavor and is heart-healthy too!
Onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and red bell pepper: This aromatic combo is the base that can elevate any dish. Fresh vegetables not only add flavor but also fabulous nutrients.
Diced tomatoes: I always grab a can (or two!) of good-quality diced tomatoes with juice to provide a robust tang that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
Chicken broth: A savory broth is a must, especially homemade if you have it! It adds richness to the stew that just can’t be replicated with water.
Baby potatoes: Their creamy texture once cooked offers a comforting bite. Halving them allows for quicker cooking and easy eating!
Fresh spinach or kale: These greens not only bring a pop of color but also nutritional value. I personally can never resist the freshness they add at the end.
Dried thyme and oregano: These herbs are my secret flavor bomb! They enhance the stew’s earthy taste remarkably.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning! Always taste and adjust to get that perfect flavor balance.
Fresh parsley: Using this as a garnish adds not only a bright touch but an extra layer of herbaceous goodness!
Is Hearty Chicken Stew Good for You?
You bet! This Hearty Chicken Stew packs a punch when it comes to nutrition.
Chicken thighs: Rich in protein, they provide necessary amino acids for muscle repair and energy. They’re also a source of iron, which is great for replenishing our energy levels.
Vegetables: With a variety of colors on your plate, from bell peppers to carrots, you get a multitude of vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants that support overall health. Plus, let’s be real, they make the stew look beautiful!
Broth: Whether homemade or store-bought, it contributes not just flavor but also hydration, which is essential for our well-being.
On the flip side, remember that this stew can be high in sodium, especially if you’re using store-bought broth and canned tomatoes. If that’s a concern for you, opt for low-sodium products, and feel free to control the salt content as you please.
Ingredients
– 1.5 lbs chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on, cut into pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
– 1 cup fresh spinach or kale
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)
*This recipe serves 6 hearty portions! Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the week ahead.*
How to Make Hearty Chicken Stew?
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs and brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and red bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are soft, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and baby potatoes to the pot. Stir well to combine.
4. Return the browned chicken to the pot. Season with thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.
6. Stir in the fresh spinach or kale and cook for an additional 5 minutes until wilted.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
And voilà! Your Hearty Chicken Stew is served, just begging for a delectable spoon to dive into it.
Culinary Tips and Serving Suggestions
Here are a few little nuggets I’ve learned along the way that might help you out:
– If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in other veggies like zucchini or peas for added nutrition and variety.
– Swap the chicken thighs for breast meat if you prefer lighter meat; just be sure to cut down on the cooking time a bit to prevent dryness.
– You can easily make this stew in a slow cooker! Simply throw all the ingredients in and cook on low for about 6-8 hours.
– To amp up the flavor even more, consider adding a splash of white wine before simmering – it’s such a simple trick!
I hope you give this Hearty Chicken Stew a try! I’d love to hear how it turns out for you, or if you make any fun tweaks to it. Cooking can be such a wonderful journey, and nothing brings people together quite like a big pot of stew. Enjoy every comforting bite!
