Introduction
This isn’t just any chicken stew; it’s a taste of home, a warm hug on a chilly evening, and the kind of comfort food that makes everyone gather ’round the table. We’re taking everyday ingredients—humble chicken, simple veggies—and transforming them into a hearty, flavorful masterpiece that’s as easy to make as it is delicious to eat! Get ready for a recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights and special family gatherings alike.
Why This Works
This recipe works because it’s a perfect balance of savory and comforting. The tender chicken, the perfectly cooked vegetables, and the rich, flavorful broth all come together to create a dish that’s both satisfying and delicious. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, using ingredients you likely already have in your pantry! It’s the kind of recipe that’s passed down through generations for a reason.
Key Ingredients
🐔 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), cut into pieces
🥕 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
🥔 3 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
🧅 1 large onion, chopped
🌿 2 celery stalks, chopped
🧄 4 cloves garlic, minced
🌿 1 teaspoon dried thyme
🌿 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
🍃 1 bay leaf
💧 8 cups chicken broth
🧂 Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1️⃣ In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the chicken pieces over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken and set aside.
2️⃣ Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic, thyme, and rosemary and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3️⃣ Return the chicken to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1 hour, or until the chicken is very tender.
4️⃣ Add the potatoes and continue to simmer for another 20-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
5️⃣ Remove the bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Handy Tips
- Use bone-in, skin-on chicken for the richest flavor.
- If you don’t have fresh herbs, you can substitute with 1 teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning.
- Don’t be afraid to add other vegetables you love, like peas, green beans, or corn.
Heat Control
Simmering the stew on low heat is crucial for tenderizing the chicken and allowing the flavors to meld together. A rolling simmer, with only small bubbles breaking the surface, is ideal. High heat will cause the stew to boil vigorously, resulting in tough chicken and potentially burnt vegetables.
Crunch Factor
While this stew is all about comforting softness, you can add a little crunch by serving it with crusty bread or a side salad. The contrast in textures adds another layer of enjoyment!
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- For extra flavor, add a tablespoon of tomato paste along with the onion, carrots, and celery.
- To speed things up, use pre-cut vegetables.
- For a thicker stew, whisk together 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir into the stew during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
Storage Tips
Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s even better the next day! You can also freeze the stew for up to 3 months.
Gift Packaging Ideas
This stew makes a wonderful gift! Package it in a beautiful mason jar or a thermal food container, tied with a ribbon and a handwritten tag. Include a recipe card so the recipient can make it again.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Spicy Stew: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño pepper for a kick.
🌟 Creamy Stew: Stir in a cup of heavy cream or half-and-half during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
🌟 Lemon Herb Stew: Add the zest and juice of one lemon during the last 15 minutes of cooking, along with extra fresh herbs.
🌟 Root Vegetable Stew: Add diced parsnips, turnips, and sweet potatoes along with the carrots and potatoes for a richer, earthier flavor.
Troubleshooting
- Stew is too watery: Simmer uncovered for a longer period to reduce the liquid. Or use the cornstarch slurry trick mentioned above.
- Chicken is tough: You may have simmered it at too high a heat. Next time, ensure a low simmer.
- Vegetables are mushy: You may have simmered them for too long. Adjust cooking times based on the vegetables’ firmness.
FAQ
- Can I use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely! Thighs will result in a richer, more flavorful stew.
- Can I make this in a slow cooker? Yes! Brown the chicken as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth? Yes, but the flavor will be slightly different. You may want to add a teaspoon of chicken bouillon for extra savory flavor.
- What kind of potatoes work best? Russet, Yukon Gold, or Idaho potatoes all work well.
- Can I add noodles or dumplings? Yes! Add your favorite noodles or dumplings during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
Conclusion
This Old Fashioned Chicken Stew is more than just a recipe—it’s a culinary hug, a taste of tradition, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. We hope you enjoy making it (and eating it!) as much as we do. Share your creations with us on social media using #AngelRecipes! Happy cooking!