Hearty Chicken Vegetable Stew
Introduction
This Hearty Chicken Vegetable Stew is the ultimate comfort food, packed with tender chicken, wholesome vegetables, and a flavorful broth. It’s a one-pot dish perfect for cold nights or when you’re craving a nourishing meal. Serve it with crusty bread to soak up all the delicious flavors!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cooked and shredded
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Base:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Cook the Vegetables:
- Add the carrots and potatoes to the pot. Sprinkle with thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the spices.
- Add the Broth:
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
- Incorporate the Chicken:
- Add the shredded chicken to the pot and stir to combine. If you prefer a thicker stew, mix the flour with 1/4 cup water to form a slurry and stir it into the pot. Simmer for another 5 minutes until the stew thickens.
- Add the Peas:
- Stir in the frozen peas and cook for 2–3 more minutes, or until they are heated through.
- Finish and Serve:
- Remove the bay leaf and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve the stew hot, garnished with fresh parsley, alongside crusty bread or dinner rolls.
Conclusion
This Hearty Chicken Vegetable Stew is a warm and satisfying dish that’s both easy to make and incredibly versatile. Packed with vegetables and tender chicken, it’s perfect for feeding a family or enjoying leftovers the next day. Pair it with your favorite bread for the ultimate cozy meal.