Introduction

Chicken stew is one of those comforting dishes that evokes feelings of warmth and home. This recipe combines tender chicken with a rich broth and a variety of vegetables, making it a hearty and nutritious option for any meal. With its robust flavors and easy preparation, this chicken stew is perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week ahead.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Chicken (thighs or breasts, 1.5 lbs)

Olive oil (2 tablespoons)

Onion (1 large, diced)

Garlic (4 cloves, minced)

Carrots (2 medium, sliced)

Potatoes (2 medium, diced)

Celery (2 stalks, diced)

Chicken broth (4 cups)

Bay leaves (2)

Thyme (1 teaspoon, dried or fresh)

Salt (to taste)

Pepper (to taste)

Parsnips (1 medium, chopped, optional)

Peas (1 cup, frozen or fresh)

Prep Time

Preparation time for this chicken stew is approximately 15 minutes. This includes chopping vegetables and prepping the chicken for cooking.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 1 hour

Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Yield: Serves 6

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients needed for the chicken stew. Chop the vegetables and prepare the chicken by cutting it into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large pot, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces to the pot in a single layer and sear until browned. Do this in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add onions and garlic. Sauté until they become translucent. Then, add the carrots and celery, cooking until they soften.

Step 4: Add Flour

Sprinkle flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir to combine. This will help thicken the stew. Cook for a couple of minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.

Step 5: Add Liquids

Pour in chicken broth and add diced tomatoes. Stir well, ensuring to scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pot.

Step 6: Return Chicken and Season

Add the seared chicken back into the pot along with any juices. Season with herbs, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine all ingredients.

Step 7: Simmer the Stew

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and the flavors meld together.

Step 8: Adjust Seasoning

After simmering, taste the stew and adjust seasoning if necessary. Add more salt, pepper, or herbs according to your preference.

Step 9: Serve the Stew

Ladle the chicken stew into bowls and serve hot. Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs for added flavor.

Notes

Note 1: Choose the Right Chicken

Use bone-in chicken pieces for more flavor, or boneless skinless chicken thighs for a quicker cooking time.

Note 2: Vegetable Variations

Feel free to add or substitute vegetables like potatoes, peas, or green beans based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

Note 3: Making Ahead

Chicken stew can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.

Note 4: Thickening Options

For a thicker stew, you can add more flour or cornstarch mixed with water at the end of cooking.

Note 5: Serving Suggestions

Serve the stew with crusty bread, over rice, or with noodles to make it a more filling meal.

Cook techniques

Brown the Chicken

To achieve a deep flavor, brown the chicken pieces in a bit of oil before adding other ingredients. This caramelizes the surface and adds richness to the stew.

Layering Flavors

Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and spices before adding liquids and vegetables. This technique builds complexity in the dish.

Deglazing the Pot

After browning the chicken and sautéing aromatics, add a splash of broth or wine to scrape up any browned bits. This adds extra flavor to the stew.

Simmering Low and Slow

Allow the stew to simmer at a low temperature for an extended period. This helps flavors meld together and results in tender meat.

Using a Thickener

To achieve the desired thickness, consider using a slurry of flour or cornstarch mixed with water. Stir it in towards the end of cooking to thicken the stew.

Adjusting Seasoning

Taste the stew before serving and adjust seasoning if necessary. A little salt or a squeeze of lemon can brighten the dish.

FAQ

Can I use different meats for this stew?

Yes, you can substitute other types of meat, such as beef or pork, following similar cooking techniques.

Is it possible to make this stew in advance?

Absolutely! This stew often tastes better the next day as the flavors deepen. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat.

Can I freeze chicken stew?

Yes, chicken stew freezes well. Make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.

What vegetables work best in chicken stew?

Root vegetables like carrots and potatoes are great choices, but you can also add peas, green beans, or mushrooms for variety.

How do I make a lighter version of this stew?

You can use skinless chicken breasts, reduce the amount of oil, and increase the quantity of vegetables to lighten the dish.

Conclusion

The chicken stew recipe provides a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. With tender chicken and a rich broth, it brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. This versatile stew can be customized with various vegetables and spices, making it a perfect base for creativity in your cooking.

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