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Homemade one-pot chicken stew served hot in a rustic bowl

Hearty Chicken Stew Recipe

This hearty chicken stew is a classic American comfort dish made with tender chicken, potatoes, carrots, and vegetables simmered in a rich, flavorful broth. Easy to make in one pot and perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 330

Ingredients
  

  • lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breast), diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, sliced
  • 2 cups potatoes (russet or Yukon gold), diced
  • cups sweet potatoes (optional), diced
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups chicken broth or stock
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt, to taste
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup green beans or peas
  • ½ cup heavy cream (optional, for creamy stew)
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Method
 

  1. Brown the Chicken
  2. Cook the Vegetables
  3. Thicken the Base
  4. Add Broth & Potatoes
  5. Simmer the Stew
  6. Finish the Stew
  7. Serve

Notes

Homemade one-pot chicken stew served hot in a rustic bowl
Recipe Notes

  • Best Chicken to Use: Boneless chicken thighs stay tender and juicy after simmering, but chicken breast can be used for a leaner option.
  • Thickness Control: If the stew becomes too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water while reheating. For a thicker stew, simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes.
  • Creamy vs Classic: Heavy cream is optional. Skip it for a traditional broth-based chicken stew or add it at the end for a rich, creamy texture.
  • Vegetable Swaps: Feel free to substitute or add vegetables like corn, mushrooms, parsnips, or peas based on what you have on hand.
  • Seasoning Tip: Taste and adjust salt and pepper near the end of cooking, as flavors concentrate while simmering.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: This chicken stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.
  • Freezing Advice: For best results, freeze the stew without cream. Add cream after reheating if desired.
  • Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
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