Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew

Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew Recipe

This comforting and flavorful stew is loaded with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs—perfect for warming up on a chilly day!

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6

Ingredients

For the Stew:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 medium carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, sliced
  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup water (or more broth, as needed)
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juice
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1 bay leaf

Optional Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Crusty bread or biscuits for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Chicken

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then sear them in the hot oil until browned on all sides (about 5-7 minutes). Remove chicken and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

  1. In the same pot, add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften.

Step 3: Build the Stew Base

  1. Return the browned chicken to the pot. Add the potatoes, green beans, chicken broth, water, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
  2. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches

  1. If using frozen peas, stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
  2. Discard the bay leaf before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
  • Serve with crusty bread, rolls, or biscuits to soak up the flavorful broth.

Tips for Success:

  • Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables such as zucchini, sweet potatoes, or corn based on your preference.
  • Thicker Stew: For a thicker consistency, mash a few potato pieces into the broth or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) during the last 5 minutes.
  • Make Ahead: This stew tastes even better the next day, as the flavors deepen over time.

Enjoy this Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew for a wholesome and nourishing meal that’s perfect for any season! 🍲