The Best Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew – Healthy & Delicious!
This hearty chicken and vegetable stew is the ultimate comfort food! Packed with tender chicken, wholesome vegetables, and a flavorful broth, it’s perfect for digestion, boosting immunity, and keeping you satisfied. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal on a chilly evening or a nutrient-rich dish to fuel your body, this stew is a must-try!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is more than just a stew—it’s a bowl of warmth, nourishment, and pure satisfaction.
- Protein-rich and filling – The shredded chicken makes it a wholesome meal.
- Loaded with veggies – Packed with carrots, peas, and potatoes for a balanced diet.
- Easy to make – Requires simple steps and minimal effort.
- Perfect for meal prep – Stores well for busy weekdays.
- Gut-friendly and easy to digest – Ideal for those looking for a light yet nutritious meal.
Tools Needed for Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew 🍲
Large pot – For cooking the stew.
Cutting board & sharp knife – To chop vegetables and chicken.
Wooden spoon – For stirring the ingredients.
Measuring cups & spoons – To measure liquids and seasonings.
Ladle – For serving the stew.
Ingredients (Serves 6)
- 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, cooked and shredded
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, cubed
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1/2 tsp turmeric (for extra healing benefits)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme or parsley, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Add Vegetables and Broth
- Add carrots, potatoes, chicken broth, and water to the pot.
- Stir in tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add Chicken and Peas
- Stir in the shredded chicken and frozen peas.
- Let the stew simmer for another 5–10 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.
4. Serve and Enjoy!
- Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh thyme or parsley.
- Serve hot with crusty bread on the side.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Stew
- Use bone-in chicken for extra flavor – If you have time, cook chicken thighs with the bones and shred them later.
- For a thicker stew, mash a few potatoes directly in the pot before serving.
- Add richness by stirring in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk.
- Enhance digestion by adding a small piece of fresh ginger while cooking.
Variations & Customizations
- Spicy Twist – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
- Low-Carb Option – Swap potatoes for cauliflower or turnips.
- Extra Greens – Toss in spinach or kale at the end of cooking.
- Boost the Protein – Add chickpeas or white beans for extra heartiness.
- Immune Boosting – Add fresh turmeric or ginger for anti-inflammatory benefits.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigeration – Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing – Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
- Reheating – Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in 1-minute intervals.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 6g
- Fat: 8g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Yes! Add all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
Can I use different vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in sweet potatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini.
Is this stew good for meal prep?
Yes! It reheats beautifully, making it great for batch cooking.
How can I make it more flavorful?
Try roasting the vegetables before adding them to the pot or using homemade chicken broth for a deeper taste.
This hearty chicken and vegetable stew is the perfect blend of comfort and nutrition. Try it today and enjoy a warm, nourishing meal that’s good for your body and soul! 🍲😊
