Let me tell you, this Savory Chicken Stew with Potatoes & Carrots is like a warm hug on a chilly day. Growing up, my family would gather around the table as the rich aroma filled the house, and it instantly became our go-to comfort food. I love how this stew effortlessly brings everyone together, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The tender chicken, hearty potatoes, and sweet carrots make every spoonful feel like home. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it a part of your family traditions too!
Ingredients List
Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this delicious Savory Chicken Stew with Potatoes & Carrots. Make sure to gather these ingredients before getting started!
1 lb chicken thighs, cut into pieces – I always prefer thighs for their juiciness and flavor, but feel free to use chicken breasts if you like.
2 cups potatoes, diced – Any kind works, but Yukon gold or russets add a great creamy texture.
1 cup carrots, sliced – Fresh carrots bring sweetness and color; I love using colorful varieties when I can!
1 onion, chopped – This adds a fantastic base flavor that makes the stew so comforting.
3 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic is a must for that aromatic goodness; trust me, don’t skip it!
4 cups chicken broth – Homemade if you have it, but store-bought works just fine for convenience.
2 tablespoons olive oil – This helps to brown the chicken and sauté the veggies beautifully.
1 teaspoon thyme – Fresh or dried, thyme adds a lovely herbal note that complements the chicken.
1 teaspoon rosemary – I adore rosemary for its earthy aroma; it really makes the stew feel special.
Salt and pepper to taste – These are essential for making all the flavors pop, so don’t hold back!
How to Prepare Savory Chicken Stew with Potatoes & Carrots
Get ready to dive into the comforting world of chicken stew! Here’s how I make my Savory Chicken Stew with Potatoes & Carrots, step by step. Trust me, it’s easier than you think!
Heat the olive oil: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. You want it hot enough to sizzle when you add the chicken.
Brown the chicken: Add the cut chicken thighs to the pot. Brown them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial for adding depth to the flavor, so don’t rush it!
Set the chicken aside: Once browned, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside on a plate. This helps it stay juicy while we build those flavors.
Sauté the aromatics: In the same pot, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until the onion is soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Oh man, the smell is heavenly!
Add the veggies: Now, add the diced potatoes and sliced carrots to the pot. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 3-5 minutes. This helps the vegetables absorb all that lovely onion and garlic flavor.
Return the chicken: Place the browned chicken back into the pot. Don’t forget those delicious juices that may have collected on the plate!
Pour in the broth: Add the chicken broth, thyme, rosemary, and season generously with salt and pepper. Stir it all together, and bring the mixture to a boil!
Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for 30 minutes. This is where all the magic happens! The chicken becomes tender, and the flavors meld beautifully.
Serve: When the time’s up, give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Ladle the stew into bowls and enjoy it hot!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s a hearty meal that warms you up from the inside out!
Super easy to make, perfect for both novice and seasoned cooks.
Great for meal prep – it tastes even better the next day!
Loaded with nutritious ingredients like chicken, potatoes, and carrots.
Perfectly versatile; you can add in your favorite veggies or herbs.
A true crowd-pleaser, ideal for family dinners or cozy gatherings.
Tips for Success
Here are my top tips to ensure your Savory Chicken Stew with Potatoes & Carrots turns out perfectly every time!
Use fresh herbs: Fresh thyme and rosemary elevate the flavor, making your stew taste incredible.
Don’t skip browning: Take your time to brown the chicken well; it adds so much depth to the dish.
Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go! Feel free to tweak the salt and pepper to match your preference.
Let it simmer: Give it a good 30 minutes on low heat to allow all the flavors to meld beautifully.
Leftovers are gold: This stew actually gets better the next day, so make a big batch!
Nutritional Information Section
It’s always good to know what you’re putting on your plate! Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. Here’s a typical breakdown for one bowl of my Savory Chicken Stew with Potatoes & Carrots:
Calories: 350
Fat: 15g
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 600mg
Fiber: 4g
This stew is not only hearty and comforting but also packed with protein and fiber to keep you satisfied. Enjoy every delicious spoonful knowing it’s nourishing too!
FAQ Section
Got questions? I’ve got answers! Here are some common queries about my Savory Chicken Stew with Potatoes & Carrots:
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Absolutely! Chicken breasts work just fine, but they might be a bit less juicy. Just keep an eye on the cooking time to avoid drying them out.
What other vegetables can I add? Feel free to get creative! Green beans, peas, or even bell peppers are fantastic additions that add color and flavor.
How do I make this stew thicker? If you like a thicker consistency, you can mash a few of the potatoes in the pot or stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water.
Can I prepare this stew in advance? Definitely! It’s perfect for making ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge, and it’ll taste even better the next day!
Is this stew gluten-free? Yes! All the ingredients are gluten-free, making it a wonderful option for those with dietary restrictions.
Serving Suggestions
Want to take your meal to the next level? Here are some fantastic ideas for what to serve alongside my Savory Chicken Stew with Potatoes & Carrots. Trust me, these pairings elevate the whole experience!
Crusty bread: A warm, crusty baguette or some homemade dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up all that delicious broth.
Green salad: A light, refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette adds a nice contrast to the hearty stew.
Steamed veggies: Simple steamed broccoli or green beans on the side adds a pop of color and extra nutrients to your plate.
Mashed potatoes: For an extra indulgent touch, serve with creamy mashed potatoes to complement the stew’s flavors.
Rice or quinoa: If you’re looking for a grain option, fluffy rice or nutty quinoa can soak up the stew beautifully.
Each of these options brings something special to the table, making your meal even more satisfying and enjoyable. Bon appétit!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Storing your Savory Chicken Stew with Potatoes & Carrots properly will keep it tasting delicious for days. Here’s how I do it:
Cool down: Allow the stew to cool to room temperature before transferring it to the fridge. This helps prevent condensation, which can make it watery.
Store airtight: Use an airtight container to keep your stew fresh. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—just make sure it’s sealed tightly!
Freezing: If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the stew! Just portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space at the top for expansion. It should be good for about 2-3 months.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. If it’s frozen, let it thaw in the fridge overnight first. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between, until hot.
Reheating might leave the stew a tad thicker, so feel free to add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up. Enjoy every comforting spoonful, just like the first time!
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