Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew Recipe

Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew is a wholesome and flavorful dish perfect for warming up on chilly nights or enjoying as a comforting meal any time of the year. Packed with tender chicken, nutritious vegetables, and aromatic herbs, this stew is not only delicious but also nourishing. Its rich flavors and simple preparation make it a family favorite. Follow this recipe to create a stew that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ pounds (700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 medium carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 bay leaf
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the pot. Sear until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
3. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same pot. Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the carrots, celery, and potatoes to the pot. Sauté for 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.
5. Return the seared chicken to the pot, then add the green beans, corn, and diced tomatoes.
6. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring all ingredients are covered. Stir in the dried thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, and paprika if using. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
7. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the stew simmer for 30-40 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
8. If you prefer a thicker stew, mix 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour with 2 tablespoons of water to form a slurry. Gradually add this to the simmering stew, stirring continuously until thickened.
9. Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
10. Remove the bay leaf before serving and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

Serving Suggestion:
Serve this hearty chicken and vegetable stew warm with a slice of crusty bread or over steamed rice for a complete and comforting meal. Its rich and layered flavors make it an excellent dish to share with loved ones on a cozy evening.

Enjoy this nourishing and delightful stew as a go-to recipe for any occasion. Its perfect balance of textures and flavors is sure to impress everyone at the table!