Chicken Stew Recipe Easy

I know how challenging it can be to get a wholesome dinner on the table during a busy week. This incredibly flavorful chicken stew recipe easy promises comforting aromas filling your kitchen, with tender chicken and vegetables simmering in a rich, warming broth. It’s perfect for busy parents, health-conscious cooks, and anyone seeking easy dinner ideas that are also hearty and family-friendly. I often make a big batch on Sunday to enjoy throughout the week.

Ingredient Matrix (Measurements • Role • Swap)

Chicken

• 700 g (1.5 lb) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 3 cm (1.2 inch) pieces: Main protein, becomes incredibly tender and flavorful. (Boneless chicken breasts can be used for a leaner option, just adjust cook time slightly to prevent drying.)

Veggies

• 1 large (about 200g / 7 oz) yellow onion, diced: Aromatic base, adds essential sweetness and depth.

• 2 large (about 250g / 9 oz) carrots, peeled and cut into 2 cm (0.8 inch) rounds: Earthy sweetness and vibrant color, packed with nutrients.

• 3-4 medium (about 500g / 1.1 lb) waxy potatoes (e.g., Yukon Gold), peeled and cut into 2.5 cm (1 inch) cubes: Hearty thickener, provides satisfying texture and makes it a complete meal. (Sweet potatoes offer a different flavor and a boost of vitamin A.)

Broth

• 700 mL (3 cups) chicken stock: Liquid base, infuses deep savory flavor into this chicken stew recipe easy. (For a different flavor, vegetable broth works well, ensuring it has no non-permissible ingredients.)

Flavor Boosters

• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Essential aromatic, brings pungent warmth.

• 10 g (2 teaspoons) smoked paprika: Signature smoky depth, vibrant reddish hue, a key flavor in this stew.

• 5 g (1 teaspoon) ground cumin: Earthy warmth that beautifully complements the paprika.

• 2.5 g (1/2 teaspoon) ground turmeric: Subtle earthiness and a beautiful golden tint.

• 400 g (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes: Provides rich body and a pleasant tangy acidity to the broth.

Thickener

• 30 g (1/4 cup) all-purpose flour: Creates a rich, satisfying stew consistency that clings to the ingredients. (A gluten-free flour blend can be used for a similar thickening effect.)

Fat

• 30 mL (2 tablespoons) olive oil, divided: Used for searing the chicken and sautéing vegetables, building foundational flavor. (Avocado oil is another good neutral option for high heat.)

Seasoning

• 5 g (1 teaspoon) fine sea salt, plus more to taste: Essential for enhancing all the individual flavors in the stew.

• 2.5 g (1/2 teaspoon) freshly ground black pepper, plus more to taste: Adds a gentle kick and aromatic complexity.

Upgrades and Alternates

• 1 medium lemon, zested and juiced: Brightens and lifts all the stew’s flavors, adding a fresh finish.

• 30 g (1/2 cup) fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped, divided: Provides fresh, herbaceous notes and a pop of green color.

• For a high-protein vegetarian option that’s equally satisfying, swap the chicken for chickpeas and use a plant-based broth.

Seasonal Picks and Quality Notes

• Choose firm, waxy potatoes like Yukon Golds; they hold their shape beautifully during simmering. Vibrant, crisp carrots and good quality canned crushed tomatoes will significantly impact the flavor of this hearty chicken stew.

Tools & Equipment (and Why They Help)

Essential Cookware

A large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven (I use my 5-quart one frequently) is crucial. It ensures even heat distribution and prevents sticking, which is perfect for simmering this easy chicken stew to perfection.

Kitchen Tools

• A sharp chef’s knife and a sturdy cutting board are key for safe and efficient preparation of all your vegetables.

• Measuring cups and spoons ensure accurate ingredient ratios, leading to the best flavor balance every time you make the stew.

Optional Gear for Speed or Consistency

• While not strictly necessary, a food processor can dice onions and carrots quickly, saving valuable prep time.

• For a smoother stew, an immersion blender can quickly puree a portion of the vegetables directly in the pot, adjusting the texture to your liking.

Safe Handling Reminders

• Always use oven mitts when handling hot pots and baking sheets to prevent burns.

• Keep your fingers curled and clear of sharp blades during vegetable prep, and always wash hands thoroughly after touching raw chicken.

Step-by-Step Method with Sensory Cues

1. Prep & Sauté (20-30 mins)

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). First, prepare the crispy chickpea garnish: In a medium bowl, toss the drained, rinsed, and thoroughly dried chickpeas with 15 mL (1 tablespoon) olive oil, 2.5 g (1/2 teaspoon) smoked paprika, and 1.25 g (1/4 teaspoon) salt. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until they look golden and feel delightfully crispy, shaking the pan halfway through. Set them aside; they’ll be a delightful crunch. Pat your chicken pieces dry with paper towels; this helps with browning. Season them with 2.5 g (1/2 teaspoon) salt and 1.25 g (1/4 teaspoon) pepper. Heat 15 mL (1 tablespoon) olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add half of the chicken and sear until golden brown on all sides, about 3-4 minutes. You’ll hear a satisfying sizzle. Remove the browned chicken to a plate and repeat with the remaining chicken, adding a touch more oil if needed. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining 15 mL (1 tablespoon) olive oil to the pot, then add the diced onion, carrots, and potatoes. Sauté for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften and smell wonderfully savory. This chicken stew recipe easy is building flavor already! I sometimes throw in a pinch of dried oregano here too, just for an extra layer of Mediterranean aroma that my family loves.

2. Build Flavor (3 mins)

Stir in the minced garlic, 10 g (2 teaspoons) smoked paprika, 5 g (1 teaspoon) cumin, and 2.5 g (1/2 teaspoon) turmeric. Cook for 1 minute more, stirring constantly, until the spices become wonderfully fragrant. The kitchen will fill with an earthy, warm aroma. Sprinkle the 30 g (1/4 cup) all-purpose flour over the vegetables and stir well. Cook for 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste; it will create a thick paste.

3. Simmer & Thicken (25-30 mins)

Pour in the 400 g (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes and 700 mL (3 cups) chicken stock. Stir vigorously to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot; this adds immense flavor. Return the seared chicken to the pot. Bring the stew to a gentle simmer; you’ll see small bubbles breaking the surface. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender, and the potatoes are fork-tender. The stew will thicken beautifully. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Inline Quick Variations: For a brighter flavor profile, you could add a squeeze of fresh orange juice with the tomatoes. For an even heartier vegetarian chicken stew alternative, substitute the chicken with hearty mushrooms and use a robust vegetable broth.

4. Finish & Serve (5 mins)

Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice and half of the chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed; it should be perfectly balanced and comforting. Ladle the hot chicken stew into rustic, deep bowls. Garnish each serving generously with the crispy roasted chickpeas, the remaining fresh flat-leaf parsley, and a delicate scattering of fresh lemon zest. The vibrant colors will make it appealing. Mini Troubleshooting Callouts: If your stew looks too thin, simply simmer it uncovered for another 5-10 minutes to reduce the liquid. If chicken isn’t quite tender, continue simmering covered until it easily shreds.

Best Ways to Serve & Store

This chicken stew recipe easy offers comforting, versatile meals.

Occasions

• Weeknight dinners.
• Meal prep.
• Casual gatherings.

Pairings

• Sides: Crusty bread, brown rice.
• Toppings: Sour cream, fresh parsley.

Storage & Reheating

Refrigerate 3-4 days; freeze up to 3 months. Thaw, reheat gently. I add broth to revive texture.

Nutrition & Lifestyle Fit for Chicken Stew Recipe Easy

This wholesome easy chicken stew recipe supports healthy eating goals.

Diet Tags

• High-protein.
• Balanced.
• Gluten-free.

Macros/Benefits

• Satiety: Protein/fiber keep you full for healthy dinner ideas.
• Energy: Complex carbs provide sustained energy.

Budget & Time Snapshot

This chicken stew recipe easy is efficient and budget-friendly.

Time

Prep: 15-20 min. Total: 50-70 min.

Approx Cost per Serving

~$2.50 – $3.50 (for 6 servings).

Money-Saving Swaps

• Chicken on sale.
• Seasonal veggies.

Batch Cooking Tips

Double for easy freezing and more meals.

Ingredient Sourcing & Smart Buying

Quality ingredients enhance this chicken stew recipe easy.

Where to Find Quality Chicken Stew Items

Farmers markets for fresh veggies, grocery stores for staples. Organic options are available.

Fresh vs. Frozen vs. Canned Trade-offs

Fresh for texture; frozen for convenience/budget. Canned tomatoes are essential.

Mentions that Fit Naturally

Consider organic chicken. Grocery delivery adds convenience. Fits meal kit components.

Pro Tips, Adjustments & Safety

Enhance your chicken stew recipe easy with these tips.

Technique Upgrades

• Brown chicken/veggies for flavor.
• Avoid overcrowding.
• Safe knife work.

Flavor Tuning

• Kids: Smaller veggies; less herbs.
• Spice: Add jalapeño or cayenne.

Allergy Notes and Safe Substitutes

GF: use cornstarch/GF flour. Dairy-free: olive oil. Check labels.

FAQs

Is this chicken stew recipe easy good for meal prep or weight goals?

Yes, it’s excellent for meal prep and supports weight goals. High protein and veggies keep you full, making it a healthy meal.

What are the healthiest substitutes for chicken in this stew?

Swap chicken for chickpeas, lentils (1 cup), or root vegetables for a vegetarian version. This provides a great healthy alternative.

Can I order chicken stew recipe easy ingredients online or use a meal kit?

Yes, most grocery delivery services carry all ingredients. While dedicated chicken stew recipe easy meal kits are rare, you can adapt components from others.

How can I make this chicken stew recipe easy even faster?

Use pre-cut veggies, add shredded rotisserie chicken, or cook in a pressure cooker. These shortcuts make it a quick meal.

Can I add different vegetables to this chicken stew?

Yes! Customize with mushrooms, green beans, peas, corn, or spinach. My kids enjoy it with frozen peas stirred in.

Is this chicken stew recipe easy freezer-friendly?

Yes, it freezes beautifully! Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight, then reheat gently.

Conclusion

This easy chicken stew recipe delivers: rich flavor, hearty nutrition, and comfort without fuss. A perfect, budget-friendly family meal. Ready for healthy eating? Pin this recipe now and enjoy a delicious, stress-free dinner tonight!

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