Chicken stew is one of those timeless dishes that feels like a hug in a bowl. Hearty, rich, and soul-warming, it’s a go-to meal for cooler days or when you’re simply in need of some wholesome comfort. Built around tender chicken, aromatic vegetables, and a savory broth, this stew delivers deep flavor with every bite and gets even better the longer it simmers.
The foundation of any great chicken stew begins with quality ingredients. Chicken thighs are often preferred for their richness and tenderness, but chicken breast can also be used for a leaner version. Root vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and parsnips lend sweetness and bulk, while celery, onions, and garlic provide an aromatic base. These ingredients cook together slowly, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to become fall-apart tender.
What makes chicken stew especially appealing is its versatility. Some variations include white beans or green peas for extra texture, while others are enriched with cream or thickened with flour for a heartier consistency. Seasonings like thyme, bay leaves, rosemary, and a dash of paprika can transform the flavor profile, making it rustic or slightly spiced depending on your preference. Whether cooked on the stovetop or in a slow cooker, the result is always satisfying.
Chicken stew is often enjoyed with a crusty loaf of bread, biscuits, or even over a bed of rice or mashed potatoes. The broth is just as important as the solid components, and every drop is worth soaking up. It’s the kind of dish that fills the kitchen with an inviting aroma and brings people to the table without having to call them twice.
Perfect for family dinners, meal prepping, or freezing for later, chicken stew proves that simple ingredients can yield extraordinary comfort. It’s a dish that never goes out of style and continues to warm hearts and bellies around the world.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup carrots sliced
- 1 cup celery sliced
- 1 cup onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 2 cups potatoes diced
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and cook until browned.
- Add carrots, celery, and onion to the pot and cook until the vegetables start to soften, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and cook for another minute. Add flour and stir to coat the chicken and vegetables.
- Gradually stir in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Add thyme and potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 30 minutes or until the chicken and vegetables are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Nutrition
This stew is the best! I made it on a cold night and it was so comforting. Will definitely make again.
Stew was okay. Not really my thing. Maybe if I liked vegetables more… but my husband loved it.
This is a lie! Chicken stew don’t need flour! I make it with just broth and chicken. Cheaper too!
Tasted good, but the chicken was kinda dry. Maybe I overcooked it? Anyway, I’ll try again.
I dunno… chicken stew? Whatever, I did it my way with beef and it turned out great. Just sayin’!
I loved this recipe! So easy and delicious. My kids even ate their veggies! 😄
Delicious and filling! I served it with bread. Perfect meal for family dinners! 🤤
I ain’t no chef, but this was simple enough! Thanks for the step-by-step guide. Just put everything together.
Glad to hear it was easy for you! Chicken stew is perfect for a cozy dinner.
The directions were confusing. How long should you cook the chicken before adding stuff? Idk!
Could have used more spices. Not spicy enough for my taste. Will add chili flakes next time.