What’s a good chicken stew? Is this one of those meals that feels like a hug from the inside out? My grandma used to make it every winter, and the whole house would smell incredible. Is it easier to make a chicken pot pie? What is my go-to comfort food recipe for chicken stew?

What is a classic chicken stew?

What is a classic chicken stew? What’s essentially a medley of chicken, vegetables, and broth, simmered together until everything is done. What are the flavors that meld so beautifully? The name says it all, really – it’s classic comfort food at its finest. Is it fancy? Unlike chicken noodle soup, which focuses on a clearer broth and noodles, this stew is thicker, spongier and more flavorful. Is it richer, and packed with veggies?

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Oh, where do I even begin? There are so many reasons why this Classic Chicken Stew Recipe is a winner in my book. What I love most about this is its incredible flavor profile. The combination of savory chicken, earthy vegetables, and a perfectly seasoned broth is simply divine. The carrots add a touch of sweetness, the potatoes give it heartiness, and the herbs bring it all together. It’s the kind of meal that makes you want to savor every single spoonful.

What are some foolproof recipes? You don’t need to be a seasoned chef to whip up this goodness. It’s mostly chopping and simmering, which means you can easily multitask while it’ is cooking. Plus, it’s incredibly cost-efficient. Can you use inexpensive cuts of chicken and vegetables? What is a great way to stretch your budget without sacrificing flavor?

What is the versatility of this stew? Add different vegetables, swap out the herbs, or even throw in some beans for extra protein. What are some of the best ways to serve it? I love it with a hunk of crusty bread for dipping, but it’s also great over mashed potatoes or boiled potatoes. What is a classic chicken stew recipe? household, just like it is in mine.

How do you make a classic chicken stew?

Quick Overview

What is the best way to make a chicken stew? I’ll start by searing the chicken to get a nice golden crust, then add in your veggies and broth. Simmer it all together until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. What makes this method special is the searing step, which adds depth and richness to the stew. Is this a game changer?

Ingredients Notes

For the Classic Chicken Stew:
I usually use boneless, skinless chicken thighs because they stay juicy and flavorful even after they’re cooked. Is it safe to simmer for a while? How do you cook chicken breasts?
What is the basic mirepoix of a dish? Don’t skip it! It adds a lovely sweetness and depth to the stew.
I like Yukon Gold potatoes because they hold their shape well and have a creamy texture. Is it true that red potatoes also work?
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth so you can control the saltiness of the stew. You can also use homemade broth if you have it on hand.
What are some of the best herbs to add to a stew? Fresh herbs are always best, but dried herbs work too. Just use less (about half the amount).
All-Purpose Flour: This helps to thicken the stew. If you are gluten-free, you can use cornstarch instead. Just mix it with a little cold water before adding it to the stew.
Olive Oil: For sautéing the vegetables and searing the chicken.
Salt and pepper: To taste.

What are the steps to

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

In a Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Stir occasionally. Season chicken with salt and pepper. How do you cook chicken in batches until golden brown on all sides? This step is important because it adds a lot of flavor to stew. Don’t overcrowd the pot, or the chicken will steam instead of sear.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside. Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Where does mirepoix do its magic, releasing all its aromatic goodness. What are some of the best ways to scrape up browned bits from the bottom of a pot?

Step 3: Add Flour and Broth

Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute. This will help to thicken the stew. How do you add the chicken broth to a bowl? Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 4: Add Potatoes, Herbs, and Chicken

Add the potatoes, bay leaf, rosemary, and seared chicken to the pot. Bring the stew back to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes. When the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender, flip it over. I always check my potatoes with a fork to make sure they are soft enough. If they’re still firm, continue cooking for a few more minutes.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Remove the bay leaf, thyme, and rosemary sprigs. Season the stew with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with crusty bread or mashed potatoes. My kids love it when I serve it with a dollop of sour cream on top. It adds a nice tanginess that complements the richness of the stew.

What should one serve it with?

What is a classic chicken stew recipe? Right accompaniments.

What is a good cozy dinner?I love serving it with crusty bread for dipping. What is a good green salad with lemon vinaigrette? What is the best way to add freshness to a stew?

What is a hearty meal?Serve over mashed potatoes or rice. This makes the stew even more filling and satisfying. What are some good side dishes to serve with roasted vegetables, like Brussels sprouts or carrots?

What is a simple lunch?A grilled cheese sandwich is a classic pairing for chicken stew. What are the best sides to a stew?

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For a Potluck:Bring a loaf of homemade bread or biscuits to share. What is the best way to make a meal feel special? I’ve brought this to potlucks before and it always disappears quickly!

My family has a tradition of serving this stew with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice. It brightens up the flavors and adds a touch of elegance. Try it – you might just love it!

What are some tips for perfecting a chicken stew?

What are some of the best ways to make chicken stew even better?

Chicken Prep:Don’t skip the searing step! It adds so much flavor to the stew. Make sure to pat the chicken dry before searing it, so it gets a nice golden crust. Don’t overcrowd the pot, or the chicken will steam instead of sear.

Vegetable SautéSauté the vegetables until they’re softened and slightly caramelized. What are the best ways to add sweetness to a stew? What are some of the best ways to scrape up browned bits from the bottom of a pot?

Broth Choice:Use low-sodium chicken broth so you can control the saltiness of the stew. Is it safe to add salt later? If you have homemade broth on hand, you can use it to make the stew even more flavorful.

Herb Usage:Do fresh herbs have a brighter, more vibrant flavor than dried herbs? If you’re using dried herbs, use about half the amount. Add the herbs towards the end of cooking, so their flavor doesn’t fade.

Thickening TechniquesIf you want a thicker stew, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. What is the best way to cook a stew? Stir until the stew thickens. Is it possible to mash potatoes with a fork and stir them back into the stew? How do I thicken my hair naturally?

Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to add other vegetables to the stew, such as peas, green beans, or corn. You can also swap out the chicken for turkey or beef. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

One time, I accidentally added too much salt to the stew. I quickly added a peeled potato to the pot and let it simmer for a few minutes. The potato absorbed the excess salt and saved the day! It’s a trick I learned from my grandma, and it works like a charm.

Storing and Reheating Tips

This Classic Chicken Stew Recipe is great for meal prepping because it stores and reheats well.

Room Temperature: You can leave the stew at room temperature for up to 2 hours. After that, it should be refrigerated.

Refrigerator Storage: Store the stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before refrigerating it.

Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the stew. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.

Reheating Methods: To reheat the stew, you can either microwave it or heat it on the stovetop. If microwaving, heat it in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. If heating on the stovetop, heat it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may need to add a little broth or water if the stew has thickened too much during storage.

I always make a big batch of this stew and freeze it in individual portions. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when I don’t have time to cook. Just grab a container from the freezer, thaw it out, and heat it up. It’s a lifesaver!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily make this stew gluten-free by using cornstarch instead of flour to thicken it. Just mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water and add it to the stew towards the end of cooking. Stir until the stew thickens.

Do I need to peel the potatoes?

No, you don’t need to peel the potatoes. The skin adds nutrients and texture to the stew. However, if you prefer to peel them, that’s perfectly fine too.

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken. It will add even more flavor to the stew. Just make sure to remove the bones before serving. You may need to increase the cooking time slightly to ensure the chicken is cooked through.

How can I make this vegetarian?

To make this stew vegetarian, you can swap out the chicken for chickpeas or white beans. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add some extra vegetables, like mushrooms or zucchini, for extra flavor and nutrients.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs?

No problem! You can use dried herbs instead. Just use about half the amount of fresh herbs. For example, if the recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme, use 1 1/2 teaspoons of dried thyme. Add the dried herbs towards the beginning of cooking, so their flavor has time to develop.

Final Thoughts

This Classic Chicken Stew Recipe is a true gem. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and incredibly comforting. It’s one of those recipes that always brings a smile to my face, and I hope it does the same for you. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out my other soup and stew recipes for more warm and comforting meal ideas. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Leave a comment below and let me know your favorite variations and serving suggestions. Don’t forget to rate the recipe and share it with your friends and family. Enjoy!

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Classic Chicken Stew Recipe

What is a classic chicken stew?

Why you’ll love this recipe?