Hearty Homestyle Chicken Stew Perfect for a Blustery Day

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Remember those days when all you wanted was a hug? Well, get ready because this Hearty Homestyle Chicken Stew is basically that in food form! Seriously, nothing beats classic chicken stew for proper comfort food recipes ! This one-pot wonder is packed with flavor.

Brief Overview

This isn't just any stew. Inspired by time honored British and Irish piatti and ricette , it's a dish steeped in tradition.

It's a super easy chicken stew recipe , ready in just over 2 hours. One pot makes plenty of delicious hearty chicken stew , serving 6-8 hungry souls.

Main Benefits

Honestly, besides the insane flavor, this stew is packed with goodness. Chicken provides a hefty dose of protein! Perfect for a chilly night in, it's one of those comfort food recipes that just hits the spot every time.

What makes it special? Simple ingredients, huge flavor, and minimal washing-up winner winner chicken dinner stew !

Why This Chicken Stew Rocks

Okay, let’s be real. There are a million chicken stew recipe on the internet. I'm here to show you how to make chicken stew ! This version is all about keeping it real and delicious.

We're talking classic flavors but with little tweaks.

This is a one-pot chicken stew , meaning less mess. It is also packed with wholesome goodness! Forget complicated cooking; this recipe is simple.

Its ingredients are easy to find, and the steps are a breeze.

Essential Ingredients for the Best Stew

We’re not messing about with fancy stuff here. You will need olive oil, lovely juicy boneless chicken thighs, and some classic veg! Think onions, carrots, celery, and yummy garlic.

We also use chicken broth and some dried herbs to bump up the flavour!

Don't forget potatoes for that perfect heartiness. And a little flour to thicken it up. Frozen peas add a pop of color and sweetness at the end.

Oh, and parsley for a fresh garnish, because we are fancy like that.

Making It: step-by-step Guide

First, we're searing chicken until its golden. We're using a Dutch oven! Then, sauté those lovely aromatics. This is where the magic happens, folks.

Next, we build the broth and let everything simmer until the chicken is fall apart tender. Potatoes go in later, followed by that thickening trick.

Finish with peas, season well, and boom, you’re done!

Ingredients & Equipment for your Chicken Stew Recipe

So, you want to make chicken stew ? Ace. Let's talk about what you need. This ain’t rocket science, promise.

It's more ricette like a classic Sunday lunch Piatti your Nan would whip up. I'll share my secrets for making it extra special.

Main Ingredients

• Olive Oil : 2 tablespoons ( 30 ml ). This is for searing the chicken and getting things started.
• Chicken Thighs : 2 lbs ( 900g ), boneless, skinless, cut into 1 inch pieces. Seriously, go for thighs. They stay tender and juicy.
• Yellow Onion : 1 large , chopped. Adds that base flavour.
• Carrots : 2 , peeled and chopped. Because what's stew without carrots?
• Celery : 2 stalks , chopped. These add a subtle but important flavour.
• Garlic : 4 cloves , minced. Minced garlic will make everything tastier.
• Chicken Broth : 8 cups ( 1.9 liters ), low sodium preferred. The broth is key to a rich stew, honestly.
• Dried Thyme : 1 teaspoon . It provides an earthy flavour.
• Dried Rosemary : 1/2 teaspoon . Rosemary goes really well with chicken!
• Bay Leaf : 1 . Don’t forget this. It adds a subtle depth.
• Yukon Gold Potatoes : 1 pound ( 450g ), peeled and cubed. These get lovely and creamy. Russets work if you can't find Yukon Golds.
• Frozen Peas : 1 cup ( 150g ). Add this near the end for a pop of freshness.
• All-Purpose Flour : 1/4 cup ( 30g ). For thickening the stew.
• Cold Water : 1/4 cup ( 60 ml ). To mix with the flour for a slurry.
• Salt and Pepper : To taste. Don't be shy! Season generously.
• Fresh Parsley : Chopped, for garnish (optional). Makes it look all fancy.

When picking chicken, look for thighs that are plump and pink. Good quality chicken makes a huge difference.

Seasoning Notes

Thyme, rosemary, and a bay leaf are my go-to for this kind of comfort food recipes . They create that warm, homey flavour.

I sometimes add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick! If you're missing thyme or rosemary, Italian seasoning is a decent sub.

Salt and pepper are crucial, taste as you go!

Equipment Needed

• Large Dutch Oven or Heavy Bottomed Pot : This is essential for even cooking.
• Cutting Board : For chopping all those veggies.
• Sharp Knife : Obvious, but important.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons : For precise measurements.

Don't have a Dutch oven? A large stockpot will do. Just make sure it's heavy bottomed to prevent scorching.

This easy chicken stew is a simple one-pot chicken stew . How to make chicken stew , you might ask? I'll tell you. Classic chicken stew is a hearty meal with vegetables.

I hope this hearty chicken stew makes you happy. Chicken stew with vegetables is just the Piatti you need today.

Alright, let's get this chicken stew sorted! Think "Sunday lunch at Grandma's" vibes. Comforting, flavourful, and perfect for a chilly evening.

Honestly, comfort food recipes don't get much better than this. We're aiming for a classic, but with enough tips to elevate it from basic to brilliant.

This one's gonna be a hug in a bowl, and easy enough that even someone who usually burns toast can manage it.

My own Nan used to make something similar; the smell alone would make the house feel like home.

Hearty Homestyle Chicken Stew: Your New Favourite Piatti

This classic chicken stew is the ultimate comfort food . Inspired by traditional British and Irish stews, it's packed with tender chicken, hearty root vegetables, and a rich, flavourful broth.

It's a one-pot chicken stew wonder that's both satisfying and easy to make chicken stew , perfect for a cozy night in.

I reckon, it's Ricette that warm ya right up. Think "Chicken soup for the soul," but with chunks! Who doesn't love a good hearty chicken stew , eh?

Prep Like a Pro

• Essential Mise en Place : Chop 2 lbs (900g) chicken thighs into 1 inch pieces. Dice 1 large yellow onion, 2 carrots, and 2 celery stalks.

  Mince 4 cloves of garlic. Peel and cube 1 pound (450g) Yukon Gold potatoes. Measure out your spices.

• Time Saving Tips : Get those veggies chopped before you even turn on the hob. Trust me, it makes all the difference.

  Having everything ready means you can just focus on the cooking. Plus, it's therapeutic!

• Safety First : Mind your fingers with that knife! A sharp knife is a safe knife, as they say. Keep your cutting board steady.

Making the Magic: step-by-step

1. Sear Chicken : Heat 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium high heat. Brown the chicken in batches and set aside. Remember, don't overcrowd.
2. Sauté Veg : Add onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook until softened, about 5- 7 minutes. Add garlic, cook for 1 minute till fragrant.
3. Build that Flavour : Pour in 8 cups (1.9 liters) low-sodium chicken broth. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Add 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary , and 1 bay leaf.
4. Simmer Time : Return chicken to the pot. Simmer on low, covered, for 1 hour , until the chicken's tender.
5. Add Potatoes : Chuck in the potatoes. Simmer for another 20- 30 minutes , till those spuds are soft.
6. Thicken Up : Whisk 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour with 1/4 cup (60 ml) cold water to make a slurry. Stir it into the stew. Simmer for 5- 10 minutes , until it thickens.
7. Finish it Off : Stir in 1 cup (150g) frozen peas. Cook for 2- 3 minutes , till heated through. Season with salt and pepper. Remove bay leaf.

Pro-Level Moves for Easy Chicken Stew

• Don't skip the sear! This adds so much flavour.
• Avoid this mistake: Rushing the simmering process. Patience is key for a truly tender classic chicken stew .
• You can make chicken stew ahead of time. Honestly, it tastes even better the next day! Just like a good curry, the flavours all get to know each other properly.

Recipe Notes: Elevating Your Hearty Homestyle Chicken Stew

Right, so you're about to make chicken stew . Let's chat about how to take this classic chicken stew from good to absolutely banging .

These are my little secrets and some ideas I've picked up along the way with various Ricette . Think of these as friendly nudges, not hard and-fast rules, okay?

Serving Suggestions: Show It Off!

Honestly, presentation matters, even with comfort food recipes like this. Ladle your piatti of hearty chicken stew into nice, deep bowls.

Garnish with a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley. A swirl of cream or a dollop of crème fraîche looks pretty fancy.

For sides, crusty bread is essential for soaking up that delicious broth. A simple green salad cuts through the richness.

You could even pair it with a light bodied red wine or a dry cider. Don’t be shy, make it look as good as it tastes.

I would even say, a simple glass of homemade ice tea makes it a complete meal.

Storage Tips: Stew Later!

Easy chicken stew is even better the next day, you know? The flavors have had time to mingle. Once cooled, store your one-pot chicken stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

To reheat, simply warm it up gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. If freezing, portion it out into freezer safe containers.

This chicken stew recipe can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Defrost it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Variations: Your Stew, Your Rules!

Fancy a change? Sub in turkey instead of chicken. Chuck in some parsnips or swede, or even some sweet potato for a touch of sweetness.

Need a Chicken stew with vegetables dish, then load up on even more veg! If you're after a vegetarian version, switch the chicken for chickpeas or lentils, swap the chicken stock for veg stock, and you’re golden.

If your thinking about a spicy kick , add a pinch of chilli flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

See? Your chicken stew recipe , your rules.

Nutrition Basics: Goodness in a Bowl

This classic chicken stew is packed with protein from the chicken, fibre from the vegetables, and is relatively low in fat.

Each serving has roughly 350-400 calories, 35g protein, 15g fat, 25g carbohydrates, 4g fiber, 5g sugar and 400mg sodium. Of course, these are estimates, and will vary based on ingredients used.

But honestly, it's proper good stuff that will warm you up and keep you going.

So there you have it. Everything you need to make chicken stew and make it amazing . Have fun with it, experiment, and don't be afraid to put your own stamp on it.

Most importantly, enjoy every mouthful! Now, go get your apron on!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make chicken stew extra flavourful? It seems a bit bland when I make it.

Flavour is key! First, don't skip searing the chicken, as this creates a beautiful, rich base. Secondly, make sure to use good quality chicken broth it's the backbone of the stew. Finally, taste and season generously with salt and pepper throughout the cooking process.

A bay leaf adds a subtle depth too, like a secret agent of flavour!

Can I make chicken stew in a slow cooker, and if so, how should I adjust the recipe?

Absolutely! Slow cookers are brilliant for stews. Sear the chicken and sauté the vegetables as per the recipe, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Add the broth, herbs, and potatoes. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Thicken at the end by whisking in the flour slurry and cooking on high for the last 30 minutes. It's a "set it and forget it" kind of magic, innit?

What vegetables work best if I want to add more veggies to make chicken stew even heartier?

Think of hearty, root vegetables! Parsnips and turnips are fantastic additions that add a slightly sweet and earthy flavour. You could also throw in some diced butternut squash or sweet potatoes for a touch of sweetness and vibrant colour.

Just be sure to chop them into similar sizes as the other vegetables for even cooking, alright?

How long can I store leftover chicken stew, and what's the best way to reheat it?

Leftover chicken stew is like a fine wine it often gets better with age (within reason, of course!). You can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave in short bursts.

Ensure it's piping hot all the way through before serving. Bob's your uncle!

Can you freeze this recipe to make chicken stew for meal prep?

Definitely! This stew freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer safe containers or bags. Make sure to leave some headroom in the containers as the liquid expands when frozen. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

This is meal prepping at its finest, like having your own personal ready meal service!

I'm trying to watch my weight. How can I make chicken stew healthier?

You can easily lighten it up! Use chicken breast instead of thighs to reduce the fat content. Be mindful of the amount of oil you use for searing and sautéing. Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt. Load up on vegetables and go easy on the potatoes or substitute with cauliflower for fewer carbs.

Consider skipping the flour slurry and simply simmer uncovered at the end to thicken the stew naturally. Every little helps!