Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew

There’s something magical about a simmering pot of hearty chicken and vegetable stew—the way the aromas fill the kitchen, the tender chunks of chicken, the melt-in-your-mouth vegetables, and the rich, savory broth that warms you from the inside out. This isn’t just another stew recipe; it’s a culinary hug, a dish that brings families together and turns an ordinary weeknight into something special.

Did you know that stews date back to ancient times? Evidence suggests that Neolithic tribes cooked meat and vegetables in water inside animal hides over hot stones. Fast forward a few thousand years, and nearly every culture has its own beloved version—from Hungarian goulash to Moroccan tagine. This hearty chicken and vegetable stew is my take on the classic, designed for maximum flavor with minimal effort.

What makes this stew truly special?

✔ One-pot wonder – Less cleanup, more flavor.
✔ Packed with nutrients – Lean protein, fiber-rich veggies, and immune-boosting broth.
✔ Budget-friendly – Uses simple, affordable ingredients.
✔ Meal-prep hero – Tastes even better the next day.

Whether you’re a busy parent, a meal-prepper, or just someone who loves cozy, soul-warming food, this recipe is for you. Let’s dive in!

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Why You’ll Love This Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew

1. Comfort Food at Its Finest

This stew is the ultimate comfort dish—tender chicken, soft potatoes, sweet carrots, and a savory, herb-infused broth that’s both light yet deeply satisfying. It’s the kind of meal that makes you sigh with contentment after the first spoonful.

2. Nutritious & Wholesome

Unlike heavy, cream-based stews, this version is naturally nourishing—packed with lean protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It’s a balanced meal in a bowl, perfect for those looking for a healthy yet hearty option.

3. Easy to Customize

• Vegetarian? Swap chicken for chickpeas or white beans.
• Gluten-free? It already is! (Check out more on gluten-free diets here.)
• Extra veggies? Toss in zucchini, mushrooms, or kale.
• Creamier texture? Stir in a splash of coconut milk.

4. Perfect for Meal Prep & Freezing

This stew stores beautifully, making it ideal for batch cooking. Make a big pot on Sunday, and enjoy easy, ready-to-heat meals all week.

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Ingredients for Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew

Protein & Aromatics

• 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts for a leaner option)
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)

Vegetables

• 3 medium carrots, sliced
• 3 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 large potatoes, cubed (Yukon Gold or Russet)
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and halved
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional, for sweetness)
• 1 bell pepper, diced (optional, for extra flavor)

Liquid & Seasonings

• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 2 tbsp tomato paste (for richness)
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp paprika (smoked or sweet)
• Salt & black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 Prep & Sauté the Aromatics

1. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant (don’t let it burn!).

Step 2 Brown the Chicken

1. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer (work in batches if needed).
2. Cook for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until lightly browned.
3. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, rosemary, and paprika.

Step 3 Build the Stew Base

1. Stir in the carrots, celery, and potatoes, coating them in the spices.
2. Add the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen the flavor.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes, then add the bay leaf.
4. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25 minutes.

Step 4 Add Remaining Veggies & Finish

1. Stir in the green beans and peas (if using).
2. Simmer uncovered for another 10 minutes until all vegetables are tender.
3. Remove the bay leaf, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

(Pro Tip: If the stew is too thin, mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp cold water and stir it in, simmering for 2-3 minutes to thicken.)

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What to Serve with Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew

This stew is a complete meal, but here are some delicious pairings to round it out:

Bread & Starches

• Crusty Artisan Bread – Perfect for dunking! Try this No-Knead Bread.
• Garlic Butter Rolls – Soft, buttery, and irresistible.
• Mashed Potatoes – Serve the stew over a creamy bed of mashed potatoes for extra indulgence.

Fresh & Light Sides

• Simple Green Salad – A crisp mix with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Adds a nice crunch.
• Steamed Rice or Quinoa – For a heartier bowl.

Beverage Pairings

• Red Wine – A light Pinot Noir or Merlot complements the flavors.
• Warm Apple Cider – A cozy, non-alcoholic option.
• Herbal Tea – Chamomile or mint tea for a soothing finish.

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Top Tips for Perfecting Your Stew

✅ Use Chicken Thighs for More Flavor – They stay juicier than breasts during long cooking.
✅ Don’t Skip the Tomato Paste – It adds depth and richness to the broth.
✅ Deglaze the Pot – If browned bits stick, splash in a little broth and scrape them up—extra flavor!
✅ Let It Rest Before Serving – Stews taste best after 10-15 minutes off heat, allowing flavors to meld.
✅ Make It Ahead – This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.

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Storing & Reheating Tips

Refrigerating

• Let the stew cool completely.
• Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Keeps well for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Stovetop: Warm over low heat, stirring occasionally, adding a splash of broth if needed.
• Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

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Final Thoughts

This Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew is more than just a meal—it’s comfort in a bowl, a dish that warms the body and soul. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal prep, or a cozy night in, this recipe delivers flavor, nutrition, and simplicity in every bite.

Craving more cozy recipes? Explore our Main Dishes collection for more delicious ideas!

(For those on a low-fat diet, you can reduce the oil and use skinless chicken breast.)

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Now, grab your pot and start cooking—your perfect bowl of comfort awaits! 🍲✨