Chicken Stew

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When the weather turns chilly or you just need a cozy meal to warm your heart, this Chicken Stew is your go-to recipe. Packed with tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and a rich, flavorful broth, it’s a family-friendly dish that delivers comfort with every spoonful. Quick to prepare and delicious to enjoy, this stew is the kind of meal that gathers loved ones around the table, creating memories around its hearty goodness.

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Why This Chicken Stew Will Become Your New Favorite

This Chicken Stew is not just a dish; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl. With simple ingredients like bone-in chicken, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs, it delights your senses while nourishing your body and spirit. The best part? You can whip it up quickly in a single pot and let it bake to perfection , all while filling your home with an enticing aroma that will have everyone eagerly anticipating dinner.

How to Make Cozy Chicken Stew

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1.5 kg / 3lb bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and drumsticks (6 to 8 pieces)
• Salt and pepper
• 2 onions, halved and cut into wedges
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 large carrots, cut thick end into 1.5cm / 3/5″ pieces, thin end 2.5cm/1″
• 4 celery stalks, cut into 2cm / 4/5″ chunks
• 1/2 cup (125 ml) white wine (or water)
• 3 tbsp (35g) flour
• 3 cups (750 ml) chicken broth (low-sodium)
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 3 sprigs thyme (or 1 tsp dried thyme or other herb)
• 2 bay leaves (dried or fresh)
• 600 g / 1.2lb baby potatoes, halved (quarter large ones)
• Fresh thyme or parsley, chopped
• Warm crusty bread for serving

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 180C/350F.
2. Heat olive oil in a large pot over high heat. Add chicken pieces, browning them on both sides until they acquire a light golden color. Don’t forget to sprinkle them with salt and pepper! If your pot is small, you can do this in batches.
3. If there is an excess of oil, discard some. Add the onions and minced garlic to the pot and sauté for about 2 minutes, or until the onions are translucent.
4. Next, toss in the carrots and celery, stirring them for about a minute.
5. Pour in the white wine and stir well, scraping up the delightful brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it cook for one more minute until most of the liquid evaporates.
6. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir to combine.
7. Gradually add the chicken broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and bay leaves. Mix well to dissolve the tomato paste.
8. Place the browned chicken pieces back in the pot, ensuring the skin stays above the liquid level as much as possible.
9. Bring the stew to a gentle simmer, then cover it and transfer it to the oven for about 45 minutes.
10. After 45 minutes, carefully remove the pot from the oven and take off the lid. Add the halved baby potatoes, gently pushing them into the liquid as you rearrange the chicken to sit atop the vegetables. This will help keep the skin crispy.
11. Return the uncovered pot to the oven for an additional 40 minutes, until the chicken skin is beautifully golden and crispy, the potatoes are tender, and the sauce has thickened nicely.
12. Give the sauce a taste test and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
13. Serve your Chicken Stew with warm crusty bread on the side for dipping—perhaps even a crunchy Garlic Bread if you’re feeling adventurous! Optionally, garnish with some extra fresh thyme or parsley for a pop of color.

Serving Tips for Your Hearty Chicken Stew

This Chicken Stew is perfect for family gatherings or a quiet night in. Serve it piping hot, alongside your favorite crusty bread, ideal for soaking up that rich broth. A sprinkle of fresh herbs on top not only adds a touch of elegance but enhances the flavors even more.

Storing Your Delicious Stew

If you somehow have any leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, and the stew may taste even better the next day! You can also freeze it for up to three months , just ensure it’s cooled completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

Tips for a Perfect Chicken Stew Every Time

1. Browning the Chicken: Don’t rush the browning process. Getting that nice golden color will enrich your stew’s flavor.
2. Thickening the Sauce: If your sauce is too thin, feel free to simmer it uncovered for a bit longer to reach your desired consistency.
3. Adjust for Spice: If you like a bit of spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes during the cooking process for a subtle kick.

Flavor Variations to Try

• Herb Variations: Switch out thyme for rosemary or add a bay leaf for a different flavor profile.
• Vegetable Mix: Feel free to throw in your favorite veggies, like peas or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
• Add a Kick: For the adventurous, a splash of hot sauce can add a delightful zing to your stew!

FAQ

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While thighs provide more flavor and moisture, chicken breasts can work too. Just adjust the cooking time as they cook faster.

Is it okay to make this stew in advance?
Yes! In fact, many people find it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it properly in the fridge or freezer.

Can I substitute the wine with anything else?
Certainly! You can use chicken broth or water instead of wine. If you want to mimic the acidity of wine, a splash of vinegar or lemon juice just before serving works well.

With this easy Chicken Stew recipe, you’ll create not only a delightful meal but a moment of togetherness. Gather around your table, and enjoy!