Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew

Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew is a comforting, thick, and satisfying dish—perfect for colder days or whenever you want a rich and nourishing meal. Think of it like a thicker version of chicken soup, packed with tender chicken, root vegetables, herbs, and a savory broth that clings to every bite.

🍲 Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew

📝 Ingredients:

Protein & Base:

• 2–3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or bone-in pieces (cut into chunks)

• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter

• 1 small onion, diced

• 3–4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (for thickening)

Vegetables:

• 3 carrots, peeled and sliced

• 2–3 potatoes, peeled and cubed

• 2 celery stalks, chopped

• 1 parsnip or turnip (optional), chopped

• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and halved

• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)

• 1 cup peas (frozen is fine)

Liquid & Seasonings:

• 4 cups chicken broth

• 1 cup water

• 1 tsp salt (more to taste)

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• 1 tsp dried rosemary or Italian seasoning

• 1 bay leaf

• Optional: 1 tbsp tomato paste for depth

🔥 Instructions:

1. Sauté Aromatics:

   • Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.

   • Add onions and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft.

   • Stir in garlic and tomato paste (if using), cook another minute.

2. Brown the Chicken:

   • Add chicken pieces and brown lightly on all sides (they don’t need to be fully cooked).

   • Sprinkle in flour and stir to coat chicken—this helps thicken the stew.

3. Add Broth & Veggies:

   • Pour in chicken broth and water. Stir to combine.

   • Add potatoes, carrots, celery, turnip/parsnip, bay leaf, and dried herbs.

   • Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 30 minutes.

4. Add Remaining Veggies:

   • Stir in green beans, corn, and peas.

   • Simmer uncovered for another 10–15 minutes, until everything is tender and stew is thickened.

5. Taste & Adjust:

   • Remove bay leaf.

   • Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.

   • Optional: add a splash of lemon juice or chopped fresh parsley for brightness.

🍽️ To Serve:

• Crusty bread, biscuits, or cornbread

• Over mashed potatoes or rice for a hearty meal

• Topped with shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream for extra richness

🥡 Storage Tips:

• Fridge: Keeps well 3–4 days in an airtight container

• Freezer: Freeze up to 2–3 months. Let cool completely before storing.