Description
Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew
Ingredients
1 lb chicken breast or thighs, cooked and shredded
2 tbsp olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 carrots, sliced
3 medium potatoes, cubed
1 cup frozen peas
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup water
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh thyme or parsley (for garnish)
Directions
Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add Vegetables and Broth: Add carrots, potatoes, chicken broth, and water. Stir in tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Add Chicken and Peas: Stir in shredded chicken and frozen peas. Let simmer for another 5–10 minutes until everything is heated through and well combined.
Serve: Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh thyme or parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread on the side!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: ~300 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a foolproof stew. First, ensure your chicken is fully cooked and shredded. In your large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until translucent. Add the minced garlic and stir for 60 seconds until aromatic—do not let it burn. Next, add the carrots, potatoes, broth, water, tomato paste, and dried herbs. Stir thoroughly to dissolve the tomato paste. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then immediately reduce the heat to a low simmer. Cover and cook for 20 minutes, checking that the potatoes are fork-tender. Finally, add the pre-cooked chicken and frozen peas, simmering uncovered for 5-10 more minutes to heat through and allow flavors to meld.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile stew pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a classic comfort meal, serve it with warm, crusty bread or flaky biscuits for dipping. Spooning it over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes or buttery egg noodles creates an extra-hearty dish. For a lighter option, accompany it with a simple green salad dressed with a bright vinaigrette to balance the stew’s richness. Leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
How-to Summary
Sauté onion and garlic. Add carrots, potatoes, broth, and seasonings, then simmer until vegetables are tender. Stir in pre-cooked shredded chicken and frozen peas. Heat through, garnish, and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use raw chicken instead of pre-cooked? Yes. Add diced raw chicken breast or thighs with the vegetables in step 2. Ensure it simmers fully and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
How can I make this stew thicker? Create a slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir it into the simmering stew during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
What are good vegetable substitutions? Celery, parsnips, green beans, or corn are excellent additions or replacements. For leafy greens like spinach or kale, stir them in with the peas.
How should I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Can I make this in a slow cooker? Absolutely. Sauté the onion and garlic first, then add all ingredients except the peas and pre-cooked chicken to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add chicken and peas 30 minutes before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid adding the peas too early, as they will become mushy and lose their vibrant color. Do not boil the stew vigorously after adding the vegetables; a gentle simmer is key to tender, not disintegrated, potatoes and carrots. Season in layers—add some salt and pepper when sautéing aromatics and again at the end to taste. Finally, do not skip sautéing the onion and garlic; this foundational step builds deep flavor.
Conclusion
This Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew is the epitome of nourishing comfort food. It’s a flexible, one-pot recipe that yields a satisfying and nutritious meal perfect for any weeknight or cozy weekend. By following the step-by-step guide and tips provided, you can easily avoid common pitfalls and adapt the stew to your taste. We hope this becomes a cherished recipe in your home cooking repertoire.