If you’re searching for a chicken stew recipe that is rich, hearty, and perfect for any season, you’ve landed in the right place. Today, I’m sharing a good chicken stew recipe that’s easy enough for beginners yet flavorful enough for family dinners.
Whether you want a recipe for chicken stew, a simple chicken stew recipe, or even a recipe for chicken stew in a crock pot, this blog gives you everything—step-by-step instructions, slow cooker variation, and even a Caribbean twist with the famous brown stew chicken recipe cook like a Jamaican style.
🥣 What Makes This the BEST Chicken Stew?
This dish is thick, comforting, loaded with veggies, and bursting with perfectly seasoned chicken flavor. If you’ve ever wondered how to make a chicken stew recipe that tastes restaurant-quality—this is your guide.
Many people even search for “show me a recipe for chicken stew” or “give me a recipe for chicken stew”—so here it is: simple, delicious, customizable.
I’ve also included a special variation inspired by the popular cook like a Jamaican brown stew chicken recipe, giving your stew a deeper, caramelized, spiced flavor.
Ingredients for A Chicken Stew Recipe
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken (bone-in or boneless) | 1 kg | Cut into medium pieces |
| Potatoes (diced) | 2 cups | Any variety works |
| Carrots (chopped) | 1 cup | Adds sweetness |
| Celery (chopped) | 1 cup | Optional but recommended |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 large | Adds depth of flavor |
| Garlic (minced) | 4 cloves | Fresh preferred |
| Peas | 1 cup | Add last 10 minutes |
| Chicken broth | 4 cups | Low sodium recommended |
| Tomato paste | 2 tbsp | For thickness & flavor |
| Thyme | 1 tsp | Fresh or dried |
| Paprika | 1 tsp | Adds color & mild heat |
| Salt | To taste | Adjust as needed |
| Black pepper | To taste | Fresh cracked is best |
| Oil or butter | 2 tbsp | For browning chicken |
Main Ingredients
- 1 kg chicken (bone-in or boneless, cut into pieces)
- 2 cups diced potatoes
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup peas
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp oil or butter
🍳 How to Make a Chicken Stew Recipe (Step-by-Step)
Step 1 — Brown the Chicken
This step adds incredible flavor. Heat oil in a pot and sear chicken pieces until lightly brown.
Step 2 — Add Aromatics
Add onions, garlic, celery, and sauté until softened.
Step 3 — Build the Base
Mix in tomato paste, spices, potatoes, carrots, and broth.
Step 4 — Simmer
Cover and cook for 45–55 minutes until the stew becomes thick and flavorful.
Step 5 — Add Peas
Add peas during the last 10 minutes.
Your recipe for a chicken stew is ready—thick, hearty, warming, and loaded with goodness.
🍲 Recipe for Chicken Stew in a Crock Pot
If you’re looking for a recipe for chicken stew in a crock pot, here is the easiest version:
- Add all ingredients into your slow cooker
- Set on Low for 6–7 hours or High for 3–4 hours
- Add peas in the last 30 minutes
- Optional: Mix 1 tbsp flour + 1 tbsp water to thicken
This crockpot method is perfect for busy days—truly a simple chicken stew recipe.
🔥 Jamaican Style Variation — Brown Stew Chicken (Cook Like a Jamaican)
If you love Caribbean flavors, you MUST try this version inspired by brown stew chicken recipe cook like a Jamaican.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Brown sugar | 1 tbsp | For caramelizing |
| Allspice | 1 tsp | Authentic Jamaican flavor |
| Scotch bonnet pepper | ½ tsp | Optional, very spicy |
| Bell pepper (sliced) | 1 | Adds sweetness |
| Soy sauce | 1 tbsp | Enhances color & taste |
Extra Ingredients
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp allspice
- ½ tsp Scotch bonnet pepper (optional)
- 1 bell pepper sliced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
Steps
- Caramelize the sugar until brown.
- Add chicken and let it coat in caramelized sugar.
- Add veggies, broth, spices, and cook until rich and flavorful.
This cook like a Jamaican brown stew chicken recipe gives your stew a deep, smoky, sweet-spicy flavor.
FAQs – Chicken Stew Recipe
What is the secret to making a good chicken stew recipe?
The secret is browning the chicken first, using fresh vegetables, and simmering long enough for flavors to bond. Adding tomato paste and spices like thyme and paprika makes the stew rich and hearty.
Can I make a chicken stew recipe in a crock pot?
Yes! A recipe for chicken stew in a crock pot is very easy. Just add all ingredients, cook on Low for 6–7 hours or High for 3–4 hours, and add peas near the end for best texture.
What type of chicken is best for stew?
Bone-in chicken adds the most flavor, but boneless thighs also work great. Breast meat can be used, but keep an eye on cooking time to avoid dryness.
How do I thicken a chicken stew naturally?
You can mash a few cooked potatoes, add a cornstarch slurry, or let the stew simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes to thicken naturally.
Can I freeze chicken stew?
Yes! Chicken stew freezes very well. Once cooled, store it in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop for best results.
What vegetables can I add to a simple chicken stew recipe?
Classic veggies include potatoes, carrots, celery, peas, onions, and garlic. You can also add mushrooms, green beans, sweet potatoes, or corn.
How do I make chicken stew more flavorful?
Sear the chicken, sauté aromatics, use good broth, and adjust seasoning at the end. A splash of lemon juice can brighten the flavor.
What makes Jamaican brown stew chicken different?
The key difference is caramelizing brown sugar to create a rich, brown gravy, combined with allspice, Scotch bonnet pepper, and bell peppers. This creates deep, bold Caribbean flavor.
Is Jamaican brown stew chicken spicy?
It can be spicy if you use Scotch bonnet pepper. If you prefer mild stew, simply reduce or skip the pepper.
Can I use the crock pot for Jamaican brown stew style?
Yes, but you should brown the chicken and caramelize the sugar first on the stovetop. After that, transfer everything to the slow cooker.
What should I serve with Jamaican brown stew chicken?
It pairs well with rice, fried dumplings, mashed potatoes, roti, or steamed vegetables. For authentic Jamaican style, serve with rice and peas.
Can I combine classic chicken stew with Jamaican flavors?
Absolutely! Adding a little allspice, brown sugar, and soy sauce to your regular stew gives it a mild Caribbean twist—perfect if you want flavor but not too much spice.
Conclusion
Whether you prefer the classic comfort of a traditional chicken stew or the bold, island-inspired flavors of the Jamaican brown stew variation, this recipe proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary meals. The basic version offers warmth, richness, and everyday simplicity, while the Jamaican style adds a caramelized depth and vibrant spice that transforms the dish into something unforgettable. Together, they show just how versatile and satisfying a chicken stew recipe can be—perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or whenever you crave a bowl of hearty, flavorful goodness. No matter which version you choose, you’re guaranteed a comforting, delicious meal every time.
Chicken Stew (Classic + Jamaican Brown Stew Variation)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Brown the Chicken
- Sauté Aromatics
- Build the Stew Base
- Add Broth & Simmer
- Finish with Peas
- Caramelize Sugar
- Brown the Chicken in Caramel
- Add Aromatics & Spices
- Simmer With Broth
- Serve Hot
Video
Notes
-
Thickening the Stew:
For a naturally thicker stew, mash a few cooked potato pieces directly into the broth. You can also add a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water). -
Best Chicken to Use:
Chicken thighs give the richest flavor and stay juicy. Bone-in chicken also deepens the broth taste. -
Vegetable Variations:
Add mushrooms, sweet potatoes, green beans, or corn for extra texture and nutrients. -
Enhancing Flavor:
Brown the chicken well before adding liquids — this step builds deep, hearty flavor in the stew. -
Salt Levels:
If using regular (not low-sodium) broth, reduce added salt until the end to avoid over-salting. -
Make-Ahead Friendly:
The stew tastes even better the next day as flavors deepen. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. -
Freezer Instructions:
Let the stew cool completely before storing. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat slowly on the stove. -
Crock Pot Tip:
For the best slow-cooker flavor, brown the chicken first — it prevents the stew from tasting flat. -
Jamaican Variation Note:
When making brown stew chicken, caramelize the sugar slowly and watch closely — proper browning creates the signature deep Jamaican flavor. -
Heat Control:
Scotch bonnet pepper adds spice to the Jamaican version; adjust or omit based on your heat tolerance.
Content information Source:- https://www.spendwithpennies.com/chicken-stew/
Also Read:- Ultimate Steak and Baked Potato Recipe: A Classic American Comfort Meal Done Right
