Easy Chicken Stew

This Easy Chicken Stew is like a warm hug on a chilly day. When you gather your friends or family around the table, this dish will become an instant favorite. Imagine tender chicken nestled among hearty vegetables, all simmered in a savory broth that’s rich in flavor. Who wouldn’t get cozy with a bowl of stew? Plus, it’s super simple to whip up, making it perfect for those busy weeknights, or when you just want a comforting meal without spending all day in the kitchen.

The beauty of this Easy Chicken Stew is its versatility. You can customize it with whatever fresh veggies you have on hand, and the leftovers are just as delicious the next day. When you smell that delicious aroma wafting through your kitchen, you know you’re in for a treat. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get started!

Why This Recipe Works

This Easy Chicken Stew combines tender chicken with hearty vegetables in a savory broth, making it a comforting and satisfying meal without needing hours of preparation. The use of fresh herbs and spices enhances the flavor, while the variety of textures—from creamy potatoes to crisp green beans—creates a well-rounded dish. Plus, everything is cooked in one pot, minimizing cleanup time and maximizing flavor infusion.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Chicken Stew

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or relaxing weekends. You’ll love the simplicity and the comforting feel of a homemade stew. It’s hearty enough to warm you up on chilly days but easy and quick enough to suit any occasion. With minimal effort, you can enjoy a flavorful meal that invokes the coziness of home cooking.

Ingredients

• 5 tablespoons all-purpose flour, divided
• 1 teaspoon salt, plus more for seasoning
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more for seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes (or chicken breasts)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 medium to large yellow onion, diced small
• 3 ribs celery, diced small
• 3 large carrots, sliced into ½-inch thick rounds
• 3 to 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 sprig fresh thyme or ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 sprig fresh rosemary or ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 fresh sage leaf or ½ teaspoon dried sage
• ½ to 1 teaspoon cumin
• ½ to 1 teaspoon paprika
• 4 cups reduced sodium chicken broth
• ¼ cup dry white wine (optional)
• 1 ½ pounds baby red potatoes or Yukon gold potatoes, diced
• 1 heaping cup fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• ½ cup heavy cream (optional)
• Fresh parsley, minced (optional for garnishing)

Preparing the Chicken

Coat the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of flour, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon pepper. Toss the chicken cubes in the mixture until evenly coated.

Sauté the Chicken

In a large Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the coated chicken, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until browned. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Cooking the Vegetables

Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot, add 4 tablespoons of butter, diced onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté for 3 minutes, stirring regularly to prevent burning.

Create a Well

Push the sautéed vegetables to the edges of the pot, creating a well in the center. Add the remaining 3 tablespoons of flour into this well and let it cook for 1 minute to eliminate raw flour flavor.

Combining Ingredients

Add Herbs and Spices

Stir in the herbs—thyme, rosemary, sage—along with cumin and paprika, cooking for another minute to release their flavors.

Pour in Broth and Wine

Add the chicken broth, optional white wine, potatoes, and browned chicken back into the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat for 20-23 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.

Final Touches

Incorporate Green Beans

Add the fresh green beans to the pot, cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes until they are tender. If using, slowly stir in the heavy cream, ensuring it’s at room temperature to prevent curdling.

Adjust Seasoning

Taste the stew, adjusting salt and pepper to your preference. If using fresh herbs, remove their stems before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Easy Chicken Stew hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Accompany it with crusty bread, dinner rolls, or a refreshing salad.

Tips for Success

• Make sure to cut the potatoes into evenly sized pieces for consistent cooking.
• Fresh herbs greatly enhance flavor but dried herbs work fine in a pinch.
• Experiment with the types of vegetables based on what you have available.

Variations

• Add other vegetables such as peas, corn, or spinach for variety.
• Replace chicken thighs with beef or sausage for a different flavor profile.
• Make it spicy by adding cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.

Storage Tips

The stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 4 months. Reheat gently in the microwave for easy leftovers.

Pairing Ideas

This Easy Chicken Stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or homemade dinner rolls. A side salad or simple green salad provides a refreshing contrast.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts are a healthy alternative, though they may take slightly less time to cook.

Can I make this stew in advance?
Absolutely! It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Is it necessary to add wine?
While optional, wine adds depth and richness to the flavor. You can substitute with more chicken broth if preferred.

Can I freeze the stew?
Yes, this stew freezes well. Ensure it’s cooled completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.

How do I thicken the stew?
If you prefer a thicker stew, you can add a slurry of cornstarch mixed with water during the final cooking phase.

This Easy Chicken Stew is not only delicious but also a hearty meal that brings comfort and warmth to your dining table. With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, you can easily create a dish that your family will enjoy. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables and herbs, making it your own. Perfect for any season, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home. Enjoy the process of cooking and the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen!

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