Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew Recipe

Warm. Wholesome. Soul-Satisfying.
Nothing beats the comfort of a hearty bowl of homemade chicken stew, especially when it’s packed with chunky vegetables, tender chicken, and a savory broth that warms you from the inside out. Whether you’re making this for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew brings you flavor, nutrition, and comfort in every spoonful.

🕒 Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty: Easy
Intensity: Comforting & Satisfying

🍗 Ingredients

Protein & Base:

500g boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cubed
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced

Vegetables:

3 carrots, peeled and sliced
2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
2 celery stalks, chopped
1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
1 cup corn kernels (optional)
1 bay leaf

Liquids & Seasoning:

4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium recommended)
1 cup water (if needed)
Salt and black pepper to taste
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional, for depth)

Garnish:

Fresh parsley, chopped
Crusty bread or rolls (for serving)

🍳 Equipment

Large pot or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon
Knife and cutting board
Ladle
Measuring cups and spoons

🔪 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season lightly with salt and pepper.
Chop all vegetables and keep them in separate bowls for easy access.

Step 2: Sauté the Base

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the onions and cook until soft and translucent (about 3–4 minutes).
Stir in the garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Brown the Chicken

Add the cubed chicken to the pot and cook until browned on all sides (about 5–7 minutes).
Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Add tomato paste at this point if you’re using it, and stir for 1 minute.

Step 4: Add Vegetables & Broth

Add the carrots, potatoes, and celery to the pot.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low, add bay leaf, thyme, paprika, and salt & pepper.
Cover and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Final Touches

Add the peas and corn during the last 10 minutes of simmering.
If the stew becomes too thick, add up to 1 cup of water.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
Serve with crusty bread or warm dinner rolls for a complete meal.

🔸 Tip: The stew thickens as it rests — even better the next day!

📸 Presentation Tips (Optional for Food Bloggers)

Use a rustic bowl and place it on a wooden board or neutral napkin.
Top with a sprinkle of herbs and fresh pepper.
Add a side of toasted bread dipped slightly into the stew for styling.
Natural, warm lighting brings out the golden broth and chunky textures.

🔁 Variations

Low-Carb Option: Skip potatoes and add cauliflower florets or zucchini.
Spicy Twist: Add chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce while simmering.
Creamy Stew: Stir in 1/2 cup of cream or coconut milk at the end for a creamy version.
Slow Cooker Method: Brown chicken and onions first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–7 hours.

🧠 Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount (Approx.)
Calories	320 kcal
Protein	28g
Carbohydrates	22g
Fiber	5g
Fat	12g
Saturated Fat	2g
Sodium	580mg
Vitamin A	120% DV
Vitamin C	35% DV
Iron	10% DV

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on ingredient brands and adjustments.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Pair with a green salad for a lighter meal.
Great with cheddar biscuits or garlic naan.
Store leftovers in the fridge up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

🌟 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Pot Wonder: Less mess, more flavor.
Kid-Friendly: Mild yet rich flavor, perfect for picky eaters.
Meal Prep Friendly: Gets even tastier after a day or two.
Budget-Friendly: Simple ingredients, big results.

📝 Final Thoughts

Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew is the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re curled up with a bowl on a chilly evening or serving it to a hungry family after a long day, it delivers on every level — taste, nutrition, and comfort.