There’s nothing quite as satisfying as a hearty chicken and vegetable stew simmering on the stove, filling your kitchen with warm, savory aromas. This classic comfort food is packed with tender chicken, nourishing vegetables, and a deeply flavorful broth that makes it perfect for healthy dinner ideas, family meals, and cold-weather comfort food. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly recipe, a meal prep dinner, or a wholesome one-pot meal, this chicken stew checks every box.
Unlike overly heavy stews, this version strikes the perfect balance between rich flavor and nutritional value. It’s naturally high-protein, loaded with fiber-rich vegetables, and easily adaptable for gluten-free, dairy-free, or low-carb meal plans. Plus, it works beautifully in a slow cooker, Instant Pot, or traditional stovetop, making it ideal for busy households and home cooks of all skill levels.
This stew is especially popular among readers searching for easy chicken stew recipes, healthy comfort food, and make-ahead freezer meals, making it a strong performer for food blogs focused on SEO and ad revenue.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
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2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 large onion, diced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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4 carrots, sliced
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3 celery stalks, chopped
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3 medium potatoes, cubed (Yukon gold or russet)
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1 cup green beans or peas
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6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
Seasonings
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1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
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1 teaspoon dried rosemary
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1 bay leaf
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1 teaspoon paprika
Optional Add-Ins (High-Value Keywords)
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Turmeric (anti-inflammatory superfood)
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Bone broth (gut health)
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Sweet potatoes (weight-loss friendly carbs)
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Kale or spinach (organic leafy greens)
Instructions
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Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken dry and cut into bite-sized pieces. Season lightly with salt and pepper. -
Sauté for Flavor
Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium heat. Add chicken and brown lightly on all sides (about 5–6 minutes). Remove and set aside. -
Build the Base
In the same pot, sauté onions and garlic until fragrant and translucent. Add carrots and celery, cooking for another 3–4 minutes. -
Simmer the Stew
Return chicken to the pot. Add potatoes, green beans, seasonings, bay leaf, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. -
Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover and simmer for 30–40 minutes, or until vegetables are tender and chicken is fully cooked. -
Finish and Serve
Remove bay leaf. Adjust seasoning. Serve hot with crusty bread, brown rice, or enjoy it as a low-carb standalone meal.
Why This Chicken Stew Is Perfect for Meal Prep
This recipe stores beautifully, making it ideal for weekly meal prep, freezer-friendly dinners, and healthy lunches for work. It stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and freezes well for up to 3 months. Simply reheat on the stove or microwave for a quick, nutritious meal.
Nutrition Highlights
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High-protein comfort food
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Rich in vitamins A, C, and potassium
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Supports immune health
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Budget-friendly family dinner
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Ideal for clean eating and whole-food diets
Related Questions (SEO & High-CPM Focus)
1. Is chicken and vegetable stew healthy for weight loss?
Yes! Chicken and vegetable stew is low in calories, high in protein, and packed with fiber, making it excellent for weight loss meal plans and clean eating lifestyles.
2. Can I make chicken stew in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?
Absolutely. This recipe works well as a slow cooker chicken stew (6–7 hours on low) or a pressure cooker recipe (15 minutes high pressure).
3. What vegetables are best for chicken stew?
Carrots, celery, potatoes, green beans, peas, and leafy greens are all popular options for nutrient-dense stew recipes.
4. Is this chicken stew gluten-free and dairy-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, making it suitable for many dietary needs.
5. How can I thicken chicken stew naturally?
You can mash some of the potatoes, add cornstarch slurry, or use blended vegetables for a clean-label thickener.
6. Can I freeze homemade chicken stew?
Yes, it’s one of the best freezer meals for busy families and reheats beautifully without losing flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew is more than just a recipe—it’s a timeless, nourishing meal that brings comfort, health, and convenience together in one pot. Perfect for healthy family dinners, meal prep recipes, and budget-conscious cooking, it’s a must-have staple for any home cook or food blog aiming for high engagement and strong ad performance.
