This Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a chilly day. Packed with tender chicken, wholesome vegetables, and savory herbs, it’s a complete and satisfying meal in a bowl. Simple to make, this stew is a family favorite that warms the soul and fills the belly.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cooked and shredded
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup celery, sliced
- 4 cups chicken stock or broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish
Instructions:
Sauté the aromatics:
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, and sauté until soft and fragrant (about 2–3 minutes).
Cook the vegetables:
Add the carrots, potatoes, and celery to the pot. Stir well and cook for another 5 minutes to allow the vegetables to start softening.
Add the stock and seasonings:
Stir in the chicken stock, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let the stew simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Add chicken and peas:
Stir in the shredded chicken and green peas. Cook for another 5 minutes until the chicken is heated through and the peas are tender.
Thicken the stew (optional):
If you prefer a thicker stew, add the cornstarch mixture and stir until the stew reaches your desired consistency.
Serve:
Ladle the stew into bowls, garnish with fresh thyme or parsley, and serve warm with crusty bread on the side.
Tips:
- Make it in a slow cooker: Combine all the ingredients (except peas and cornstarch) in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours, adding the peas during the last 30 minutes.
- Add extra veggies: You can add zucchini, parsnips, or mushrooms for more variety.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Conclusion:
This Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew is the perfect one-pot meal for a cozy and nutritious dinner. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and aromatic herbs creates a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to make. Serve it with a slice of bread or over rice for a complete and comforting meal!