Chicken stew is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for chilly days or when you need a satisfying meal. It’s packed with tender chicken, vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth. Making chicken stew at home is simple and allows you to customize it to your taste. Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing a delicious chicken stew.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 large potato, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium or regular)
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and slice the carrots and celery. Peel and cube the potato.
- Brown the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
- Add Vegetables and Seasonings: Add the sliced carrots, celery, and cubed potato to the pot. Stir to combine with the onions and garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add Chicken and Broth: Return the browned chicken to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and water. Add the dried thyme, dried rosemary, bay leaves, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer the Stew: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the chicken is cooked through.
- Thicken the Stew (Optional): If you prefer a thicker stew, mix 2 tablespoons of flour with a little water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the stew and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the stew thickens.
- Add Peas and Final Adjustments: Stir in the frozen peas and cook for another 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Remove the bay leaves before serving.
- Serve: Garnish the stew with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Chicken stew is not only a comforting and delicious meal but also a great way to incorporate nutritious ingredients into your diet. However, if you have specific dietary goals or health concerns, it’s best to consult with a dietician to ensure that your meals align with your needs. For personalized guidance on creating a balanced diet plan, you can reach out to Dietician Natasha Mohan. Explore her diet plan for weight loss for female to get expert advice and enjoy wholesome meals while maintaining your health goals.
