Chicken Stew: A Hearty, Rustic Comfort Food Classic

Chicken Stew is the kind of meal that brings warmth to the table and comfort to the kitchen. This recipe delivers tender chicken thighs, wholesome vegetables, and a savory herb gravy that simmers into a rich, satisfying bowl of classic comfort food. Designed for everyday cooking, this Chicken Stew uses simple ingredients, affordable staples, and straightforward steps to create a deeply flavorful dish that feels both rustic and dependable. Whether you serve it on a quiet weeknight or as a cozy weekend dinner, this stew offers balance, nourishment, and familiar homemade flavor in every spoonful.

Story 

Chicken Stew has always been one of those recipes that earns a permanent place in the dinner rotation. It started as a practical way to stretch ingredients, but over time it became a favorite because of how comforting it feels once it hits the table. This version leans into that tradition with tender chicken thighs, potatoes, and vegetables simmered in an herb-seasoned gravy. The result feels like a bold hearty chicken vegetable dish that satisfies without feeling heavy. Inspired by a bold budget bytes recipe approach, this stew focuses on simple prep, steady simmering, and dependable flavor. Every step builds toward a bold rustic chicken dinner that fits perfectly into a classic bold comfort food stew routine.

Ingredients

  • 1 yellow onion, diced

  • 3 ribs celery, sliced

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • ½ lb carrots, sliced

  • 1¾ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces

  • 4 Tbsp all-purpose flour, divided

  • 2 Tbsp butter

  • 1 Tbsp olive oil

  • 1½ lbs baby potatoes, halved

  • 1 tsp dried parsley

  • ½ tsp dried thyme

  • ½ tsp dried rosemary

  • ½ tsp dried sage

  • ¼ tsp freshly cracked black pepper

  • 2 cups chicken broth

  • 2 cups vegetable broth

  • 1 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Ingredients

Start by dicing the onion and celery, mincing the garlic, and slicing the carrots into even pieces. Cut the baby potatoes in half so they cook evenly during the simmer. Next, cut the chicken thighs into uniform chunks and toss them with two tablespoons of flour until lightly coated. This step helps the chicken brown properly and contributes to the stew’s thick texture later.

Cooking Instructions

Heat the butter and olive oil together in a large pot over medium heat until sizzling. Add the floured chicken and let it brown undisturbed before turning so a golden layer forms. Once browned, transfer the chicken to a bowl. Add the onion, celery, garlic, and carrots to the pot and cook until softened, scraping up the browned bits. Sprinkle in the remaining flour and cook briefly, then return the chicken to the pot along with potatoes, herbs, pepper, and both broths. Bring to a boil, reduce to a gentle simmer, and cook until the potatoes turn tender and the gravy thickens.

Tips for Perfect Results

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid stirring the chicken too early when browning, since this prevents proper color and flavor. Cutting vegetables unevenly can also lead to inconsistent texture. Skipping the flour step removes body from the gravy, so measure carefully and cook it briefly to avoid a raw taste.

Pro Tips for Better Flavor

Use fresh herbs if available for a brighter finish. Let the stew simmer uncovered so the gravy thickens naturally. Taste near the end and adjust seasoning slowly, since broths vary in salt levels.

Serving and Storage

How to Serve

Serve Chicken Stew hot in deep bowls with crusty bread or simple biscuits. A side salad balances the richness, while extra parsley adds a fresh finish.

Chicken Stew

How to Store Leftovers

Store cooled stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Conclusion

This Chicken Stew proves that simple ingredients and steady cooking can produce a meal that feels deeply satisfying. With tender chicken, vegetables, and herb gravy, it delivers comfort without complication. Make it once, and it quickly becomes a recipe you return to again and again.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but thighs stay juicier during simmering. If using breasts, reduce cooking time slightly to avoid dryness.

Can this stew be frozen?

Yes, let it cool fully before freezing. Store for up to three months and thaw overnight before reheating.

How do I thicken the stew more?

Simmer uncovered a bit longer, or mash a few potatoes into the broth to add thickness naturally.

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Chicken Stew

Chicken Stew


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  • Author: Emily Carter
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

This chicken stew is a rich and hearty mix of tender chicken thighs, vegetables, and a light herb-infused gravy.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 yellow onion
  • 3 ribs celery
  • 4 cloves garlic
  • 0.5 lb carrots
  • 1.75 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
  • 4 Tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 Tbsp butter
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil
  • 1.5 lbs baby potatoes
  • 1 tsp dried parsley
  • 0.5 tsp dried thyme
  • 0.5 tsp dried rosemary
  • 0.5 tsp dried sage
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 Tbsp fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Dice the onion and celery, mince the garlic, slice the carrots, and halve the potatoes.
  2. Cut the chicken thighs into 1-inch pieces and toss with 2 tablespoons flour.
  3. Heat butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  4. Add chicken and brown on all sides, then remove to a bowl.
  5. Add onion, celery, garlic, and carrots and sauté until softened.
  6. Add remaining flour and cook for 2 minutes.
  7. Return chicken to pot and add potatoes, herbs, pepper, and broth.
  8. Bring to a boil, then simmer uncovered for 30 minutes until thickened.

Notes

  1. Salt to taste depending on broth.
  2. Fresh parsley is optional but recommended.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1.5 cups
  • Calories: 390
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 720 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 27 g
  • Cholesterol: 125 mg

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