Cozy Night Chicken & Veggie Stew

Cozy Night Chicken & Veggie Stew 🍲🥕✨

1. Introduction

There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm, hearty stew on a chilly evening. Our Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew combines tender chicken with a colorful medley of fresh vegetables, simmered to perfection in a savory broth. This chicken and vegetable stew recipe is ideal for a family dinner or a cozy night in. Packed with wholesome ingredients and easy to prepare, it offers a nourishing, satisfying experience that will keep you coming back for more.

2. Ingredients for this hearty chicken and vegetable stew

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into chunks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 zucchini, chopped
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

3. How to prepare the cozy chicken stew step by step

Step 1: Prepare the ingredients

Start by chopping all your vegetables and cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This ensures even cooking and quick preparation.

Step 2: Sauté the aromatics

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Brown the chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until they are browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes. This step adds flavor and richness to the stew.

Step 4: Add the vegetables

Throw in the carrots, celery, red bell pepper, and zucchini. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to soften the vegetables slightly before adding liquids.

Step 5: Pour in the broth and tomatoes

Pour the chicken broth and diced tomatoes into the pot. Stir well, scraping the bottom to deglaze, and bring to a gentle boil.

Step 6: Season and simmer

Add dried thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to become tender.

Step 7: Final taste and garnish

Taste the stew and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley for a bright, fresh finish. Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice.

4. Tips for storing and reheating

Let the stew cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove over medium heat until steaming. It’s even better the next day as flavors deepen.

5. Serving suggestions for this hearty chicken and vegetable stew

This cozy chicken stew pairs perfectly with warm, fresh bread or buttery dinner rolls. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a light green salad or a side of roasted potatoes. Want to add a flavorful twist? Check out these Asian-inspired sides to diversify your dinner table.

6. Frequently Asked Questions about this Chicken and Vegetable Stew Recipe

Can I substitute chicken breasts with thighs?

Absolutely! Using chicken thighs will give the stew a richer flavor and keep the meat juicier during cooking.

Is this stew suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth and check the labels on canned tomatoes. This stew is naturally gluten-free.

How long does it take to prepare this hearty chicken and vegetable stew?

The entire process takes approximately 45-50 minutes, making it perfect for a quick, wholesome weeknight dinner.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

• Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master: Make chopping and preparing your vegetables faster and safer, streamlining your cooking process.
• Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker: If you prefer slow cooking, this slow cooker can turn this recipe into an easy, hands-off meal.
• CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set: Ensures your pots and pans are durable and nonstick for effortless cleaning and optimal cooking.
• Ninja Air Fryer Pro Crisp & Roast 4-in-1: For adding crispy vegetables or reheating your stew with perfect texture, this multi-functional air fryer is a great addition.

8. Related recipes to enhance your cozy dinner nights

• Healthy Falafel Bowl with Hummus & Tahini Dressing
• Bright Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta
• Creamy Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef

9. Conclusion

This Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew is the ultimate comfort food for chilly evenings and busy weeknights alike. Easy to prepare, nutritious, and customizable, it’s a recipe that will quickly become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the warm, nourishing flavors and make this delightful chicken and vegetable stew your new go-to meal for cozy nights. Don’t forget to explore our recommended kitchen tools for an even better cooking experience!

Print