Hearty One-Pot Stewed Chicken is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and joy to your table. This recipe features tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and a savory broth that invites cozy conversations and hearty appetites. It’s a wholesome meal that not only satisfies the hunger but also provides a comforting experience, making it perfect for family dinners or any gathering.
Why We Love This Hearty One-Pot Stewed Chicken Recipe
This Hearty One-Pot Stewed Chicken recipe stands out for many reasons. First, it’s uncomplicated and straightforward, allowing even novice cooks to create a scrumptious meal. The beauty of one-pot meals is that they reduce the mess in your kitchen, making cleanup a breeze. The combination of chicken, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic spices creates a delightful flavor profile that tantalizes the taste buds. Each spoonful unveils a medley of textures, from the succulent chicken to the tender potatoes and crunchy carrots. Moreover, it’s a versatile dish. You can easily tweak the vegetables according to what you have on hand, ensuring that every batch remains unique and delightful. Lastly, the nutritional benefits packed in this dish, with protein from chicken and vitamins from fresh vegetables, make it a nourishing option for everyone.
Ingredients about Hearty One-Pot Stewed Chicken
Here’s what you need to recreate this hearty dish. Gather these fresh ingredients before you start cooking:
List of ingredients with measurements
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 2-inch chunks
- 2 tbsp avocado oil, divided
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and cut diagonally into ½-inch slices
- 1 medium sweet onion, cut into 12 wedges
- 6 cloves garlic, chopped
- 5 cups chicken broth or stock, divided
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 dried bay leaf
- 12 oz baby white potatoes, scrubbed and quartered
- ¼ cup fresh chopped parsley
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
How to Make Hearty One-Pot Stewed Chicken Directions
Getting started with your Hearty One-Pot Stewed Chicken is simple and quick. Follow these steps to create a delicious meal that fills your home with wonderful aromas.
- Begin by prepping your chicken thighs. Cut them into 2-inch chunks to ensure even cooking.
- In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces in batches. Make sure they are browned nicely on all sides. This process will seal in their juices, enhancing the dish’s flavor. Once browned, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.
- In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of avocado oil. Next, toss in your sliced carrots, onion wedges, and chopped garlic. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, allowing them to soften and become aromatic.
- After the vegetables have softened, it’s time to deglaze the pot. Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape any browned bits off the bottom of the pot. These bits are packed with flavor, and incorporating them will enhance your stew.
- Once deglazing is complete, add the flour to the mixture. Stir well to combine, allowing the flour to cook for a minute or so. This will help thicken the stew later on.
- Gradually stir in the remaining chicken broth, ensuring everything blends well into a smooth mixture. Add the bay leaf along with salt and pepper to your taste.
- Now, return the browned chicken back to the pot. Next, add the quartered baby white potatoes. These will absorb the flavors and complete the hearty feel of the dish.
- Cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat for 30-35 minutes. During this time, the chicken will become tender, and the potatoes will cook through.
- Once the time is up, remove the pot from heat. Stir in the fresh chopped parsley right before serving to add a touch of brightness to the dish.
- Serve your Hearty One-Pot Stewed Chicken in bowls, making sure to include a mix of chicken, vegetables, and broth in each serving. Enjoy this comforting meal with your loved ones!
How to Serve Hearty One-Pot Stewed Chicken
Serving Hearty One-Pot Stewed Chicken is as enjoyable as making it. Here’s how you can present this fabulous dish:
- Warm Bowls: Use warm bowls to enhance the overall dining experience. Serve each portion hot so the flavors come alive with every bite.
- Accompanying Sides: Pair the stewed chicken with crusty bread or soft dinner rolls. The bread is perfect for soaking up the rich, flavorful broth, adding an extra layer of satisfaction to the meal.
- Garnishing: A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top before serving adds a dash of color and freshness. If you want to elevate the presentation, consider adding a slice of lemon or lime on the side for a zesty contrast.
- Comfortable Setting: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a more formal gathering, create a cozy atmosphere. Dim the lights, add some candles, and enjoy the warm, homely vibes this dish brings.
- Leftovers as Lunch: This hearty stew is perfect for leftovers. Pack individual portions for lunch the next day; it reheats beautifully in the microwave, maintaining its delicious flavor.
Expert Tips: Hearty One-Pot Stewed Chicken
To enhance your cooking experience and ensure your Hearty One-Pot Stewed Chicken turns out splendidly every time, consider the following expert tips:
- Choosing the Chicken: Opt for bone-in chicken thighs for more flavor, if you prefer. Bone-in meat can add depth to the broth.
- Seasoning Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. A pinch of thyme, rosemary, or even a bit of cumin can add unique flavors.
- Vegetables: Customize your vegetable choices based on your preferences or what’s available. Peas, bell peppers, or even green beans can complement the stew nicely.
- Broth Quality: The quality of the chicken broth influences the final taste. If possible, use homemade stock or a high-quality store-bought alternative for the best results.
- Thickness Adjustment: If you prefer a thicker broth, allow the stew to simmer a bit longer. Conversely, if it becomes too thick, add a splash of extra broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Resting Time: Let the stew rest for about 10 minutes after cooking. This allows the flavors to meld together even better.
How to Store Hearty One-Pot Stewed Chicken
Storing your Hearty One-Pot Stewed Chicken is easy and convenient. Follow these steps to keep it fresh for days:
- Cooling Down: After cooking, let the stew come to room temperature. This helps prevent condensation from forming in your storage container.
- Airtight Containers: Transfer the cooled stew into airtight containers. Glass or BPA-free plastic containers work well for storage.
- Refrigeration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to label your container with the date for reference.
- Freezing: If you wish to keep it longer, consider freezing portions. Use freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing. The stew can last 2-3 months in the freezer.
- Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, thaw in the fridge overnight if frozen. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if necessary to bring it back to its original consistency.
Variation of Hearty One-Pot Stewed Chicken
One of the beauties of the Hearty One-Pot Stewed Chicken recipe is its versatility. You can easily adapt it to suit different tastes or dietary needs. Here are some variations to consider:
- Herb Variations: Feel free to use fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or dill instead of parsley for a different flavor profile.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a little kick if you enjoy heat.
- Veggie Boost: Toss in additional veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or even frozen corn to increase the nutritional value.
- Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free dish, replace the all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend to thicken the broth.
- Lemon Zest: Adding a bit of lemon zest or juice at the end can brighten up the flavors and add a nice citrusy note.
- Coconut Milk Variation: For a creamy twist, combine coconut milk into the broth. This adds richness and flavor while creating a unique, tropical take on the classic recipe.
FAQ about Hearty One-Pot Stewed Chicken
What is the best chicken to use for Hearty One-Pot Stewed Chicken?
Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs is ideal since they remain juicy and flavorful during cooking, but bone-in thighs can also provide deeper flavor.
Can I substitute vegetables in the Hearty One-Pot Stewed Chicken?
Absolutely! You can modify the vegetable ingredients according to what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Just ensure the cooking times for the veggies are similar.
How long does Hearty One-Pot Stewed Chicken last in the refrigerator?
If stored properly in an airtight container, it can last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator, making it perfect for meal prep.
Can I freeze Hearty One-Pot Stewed Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze it! Just be sure to use freezer-safe containers or bags, removing excess air before sealing. It will last well for about 2-3 months in the freezer.
What can I serve with Hearty One-Pot Stewed Chicken?
This dish is delicious on its own, but serving it with bread, rolls, or a fresh salad can enhance the meal. The bread is excellent for soaking up the flavorful broth.
Can I make Hearty One-Pot Stewed Chicken in advance?
Yes! It’s a wonderful make-ahead meal. Just prepare it a day ahead, let it cool, and store it in the fridge. The flavors may deepen overnight!
Hearty One-Pot Stewed Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 2-inch chunks Opt for bone-in for more flavor.
- 2 tbsp avocado oil, divided Used for browning chicken and sautéing vegetables.
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and cut diagonally into ½-inch slices Add more vegetables as desired.
- 1 medium sweet onion, cut into 12 wedges Provides sweetness to the stew.
- 6 cloves garlic, chopped Enhances the flavor of the dish.
- 5 cups chicken broth or stock, divided Quality broth enhances the stew's flavor.
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour For thickening the stew.
- 1 leaf dried bay leaf Adds aroma to the stew.
- 12 oz baby white potatoes, scrubbed and quartered Absorb the flavors well.
- 0.25 cup fresh chopped parsley For garnish, adds freshness.
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste Season to your preference.
Instructions
Preparation
- Cut the chicken thighs into 2-inch chunks for even cooking.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chicken pieces in batches and brown them nicely on all sides. Once browned, set aside.
- In the same pot, add the remaining avocado oil and sauté the carrots, onion wedges, and garlic for 5-7 minutes until softened and aromatic.
Cooking
- Deglaze the pot with 1 cup of chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Add the flour, stirring well to combine, and let cook for a minute.
- Gradually stir in the remaining chicken broth, mixing until smooth, then add the bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
- Return the browned chicken to the pot and add the quartered baby potatoes.
- Cover and let simmer on low heat for 30-35 minutes until the chicken is tender and potatoes are cooked through.
- Remove from heat and stir in fresh chopped parsley before serving.
Serving
- Serve in warm bowls including a mix of chicken, vegetables, and broth.
- Accompany with crusty bread or soft rolls, and garnish with additional parsley if desired.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!