Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew

Description:

This Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew is a comforting one-pot meal filled with tender chicken, nutritious vegetables, and a savory broth. Perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep, this stew will warm you up and leave you satisfied.

Origin:

This dish takes inspiration from traditional rustic stews, combining simple ingredients with slow cooking techniques to create a wholesome and flavorful meal.

Ingredients:

For the Stew:

• 1 1/2 lbs (700g) chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 medium carrots, sliced
• 3 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 medium potatoes, diced
• 1 cup (150g) green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 6 cups (1.5 liters) chicken broth
• 1/4 cup (60ml) dry white wine (optional)
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Garnish:

• Chopped fresh parsley
• Crusty bread for serving

Instructions:

Sear the Chicken:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the chicken chunks with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the chicken in the hot oil until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Sauté the Aromatics:

3. In the same pot, add the onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.

Build the Stew:

4. Add the carrots, celery, and potatoes to the pot. Stir and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and white wine (if using). Add the bay leaves, thyme, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir to combine.

Simmer the Stew:

6. Return the chicken to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken and vegetables are tender.

Add Green Beans:

7. Stir in the green beans and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until tender but still crisp.

Serve:

8. Remove the bay leaves. Ladle the stew into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with crusty bread for dipping.

Tips for Success:

• For extra depth of flavor, add a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to the broth.
• Swap in seasonal vegetables like parsnips, turnips, or zucchini to customize the stew.
• To thicken the broth, mash a few potatoes directly in the pot or add a cornstarch slurry.

Recommendations:

• This stew pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread or a light green salad.
• Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently to maintain the texture of the vegetables.

Nutrition (per serving, approximate for 6 servings):

• Calories: ~290
• Protein: 26g
• Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 650mg

Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew is the ultimate comfort food, packed with flavor and nourishment in every bite. Perfect for gathering around the table with loved ones! ✨