If you are craving something truly satisfying and full of comforting flavors, this Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish brings together tender chunks of chicken, vibrant vegetables, and fragrant herbs in a rich, savory broth that warms you from the inside out. Perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or sharing with loved ones, this stew is a nourishing bowl of goodness that feels like a warm hug in every spoonful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this stew lies in its straightforward, wholesome ingredients—each one playing a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color. From tender chicken pieces to fresh veggies and aromatic herbs, these essentials combine to create the magic.
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts: Choose thighs for extra juiciness or breasts for a leaner option, both absorb flavors beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Provides the perfect base for sautéing, adding a silky richness to the stew.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Adds natural sweetness and depth once softened.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: A flavor booster that gives the stew an inviting aroma.
- 3 carrots, sliced: Bring sweetness and bright color into the mix.
- 3 celery stalks, sliced: Adds a subtle earthiness and crunch texture.
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed: For heartiness and a creamy bite once cooked.
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces: Offers a fresh crisp contrast and vibrant green hue.
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth: The soul of the stew that brings everything together in a delicious, savory liquid.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional): Adds a subtle richness and depth to the broth.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Infuses a gentle herbaceous note that feels comforting.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary: Provides woodsy undertones that enhance the stew’s complexity.
- 1 bay leaf: Essential for that lingering aromatic warmth.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: To balance and brighten all the natural flavors.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): Adds a fresh and vibrant finishing touch.
How to Make Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the chicken chunks seasoned with salt and pepper, and sear them until they develop a lovely golden crust, about 4 to 5 minutes. This step locks in the juices and creates a flavorful base. Once browned, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside—don’t worry, it will finish cooking later in the stew.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Vegetables
In the same pot, add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Let them cook gently for 5 to 7 minutes until they soften and release their natural sweetness. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for one more minute, allowing the fragrance to fill your kitchen—this makes the heart of the stew intensely flavorful.
Step 3: Add Tomato Paste and Veggies
If you’re using tomato paste, stir it in now—this ingredient is like a little secret that adds richness without overpowering the other flavors. Then, add in the potatoes, green beans, thyme, rosemary, and the bay leaf. Bring back the browned chicken pieces into the pot, nesting everything together in preparation for simmering.
Step 4: Simmer the Stew
Pour in the chicken broth, stirring everything to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and cover the pot. Let it all cook for about 30 to 35 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through and the vegetables are tender but not mushy. This slow simmering melds the flavors beautifully.
Step 5: Final Seasoning and Garnish
Before serving, taste your stew and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaf, then sprinkle the fresh chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve piping hot and enjoy every hearty spoonful!
How to Serve Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic choice, but you could also experiment with a sprinkle of fresh thyme leaves or a dollop of creamy sour cream to add a different dimension. A crack of black pepper or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil right before serving can also elevate the dish.
Side Dishes
This stew is the star of the meal but pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or warm dinner rolls to soak up the delicious broth. For a lighter alternative, a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette balances the richness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the stew in rustic bowls for a cozy, homey feel, or get festive by plating it inside hollowed-out bread loaves for an impressive presentation at gatherings. Garnishing with microgreens or edible flowers can add a pop of elegance if you’re aiming to impress guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew Recipe keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness and flavor, making it a convenient option for next-day meals.
Freezing
You can freeze the stew for up to 3 months without losing any of its comforting flavors. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some room for expansion. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally to warm it through evenly. Adding a splash of broth or water can help revive the broth’s consistency if it thickens too much. Instant comfort, just like it was freshly made!
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs in this stew?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work well too. Just be sure to watch the cooking time so they don’t dry out; keep the simmer gentle and avoid overcooking.
Is it necessary to use tomato paste in the stew?
No, the tomato paste is optional but recommended for adding subtle depth and richness. If you prefer a lighter broth, feel free to skip it.
Can I substitute the vegetables with others I have on hand?
Yes! This recipe is versatile—feel free to swap in squash, peas, or mushrooms depending on what’s fresh and in season.
How thick should the stew be?
The stew should have a hearty consistency, where the broth is thick enough to coat the vegetables and chicken but still ladleable. If you want it thicker, you can mash some potatoes into the broth or simmer uncovered for a few minutes.
Can this stew be made in a slow cooker?
Definitely! Brown the chicken and sauté the veggies first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, adding green beans in the last 30 minutes to keep their texture.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly satisfying about a bowl filled with the Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew Recipe. It brings warmth, nutrition, and flavor all in one pot and is perfect for any occasion, whether a busy weeknight or a relaxing weekend. I hope you’ll give this recipe a go and make it your own cozy comfort food that you reach for time and again.
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Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This hearty chicken and vegetable stew is a comforting, wholesome one-pot meal perfect for any day of the week. Packed with tender chicken, a variety of fresh vegetables, and seasoned with fragrant herbs, it offers a warming and satisfying dinner that you’ll absolutely love. The stew is cooked slowly on the stovetop, creating deep, rich flavors and a tender texture for every bite.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
Liquids & Staples
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional for depth)
Herbs & Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the chicken chunks, season with salt and pepper, and sear until lightly browned on all sides, about 4 to 5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics and Vegetables: In the same pot, add diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the vegetables soften. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Remaining Vegetables and Herbs: Stir in the tomato paste if using, along with cubed potatoes, green beans, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and the bay leaf. Return the browned chicken to the pot, mixing everything together.
- Simmer the Stew: Pour in the chicken broth, stir well, and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for 30 to 35 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender.
- Season and Garnish: Taste the stew and adjust salt and pepper according to preference. Remove the bay leaf, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the stew for garnish, and serve hot.
Notes
- Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs will yield more tender and flavorful results than breasts, but either can be used.
- Tomato paste is optional but adds a deeper, richer flavor to the stew.
- For a thicker stew, mash some of the potatoes against the side of the pot before serving.
- This stew stores well and tastes even better the next day; refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days.
- Feel free to swap or add other hearty vegetables such as parsnips or turnips depending on seasonality and preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
