As the chill of the evening settles in, nothing feels quite as comforting as a bowl of Old Fashioned Chicken Stew simmering on the stove. The moment that rich aroma of garlic and onions fills my kitchen, I’m transported to simpler times, where a hearty meal meant gathering around the table with family. This recipe encapsulates all that warmth and nostalgia, combining succulent chicken, vibrant vegetables, and fragrant herbs into one soul-soothing dish.
I’m always on the lookout for meals that are not just delicious but also easy to prepare, and this stew checks all the boxes. Whether you’re coming home after a busy day or hosting friends for dinner, this comforting brew brings everyone together without a fuss. Imagine your loved ones leaning in as the steam swirls around, their eyes lighting up at the sight of this rustic, vibrant dish. Ready to ignite the taste buds and warm the hearts? Let’s dive into this nostalgic classic and create some kitchen magic together!
Why Is Old Fashioned Chicken Stew Unforgettable?
Comforting aromas will wrap you in warmth as you cook, making this stew the perfect dish for chilly evenings.
Hearty ingredients like tender chicken and fresh vegetables create a wholesome meal that satisfies all appetites.
Timeless recipe featuring comforting flavors, brings nostalgia to your table with every bite.
Easy to Prepare, ideal for busy weeknights or hearty gatherings without complicated steps.
Versatile enough to customize with your favorite veggies or grains, this stew accommodates every taste preference.
Join in on the tradition of creating cherished memories over a bowl of delicious, homemade stew.
Old Fashioned Chicken Stew Ingredients
For the Chicken
• 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast – this lean protein provides a hearty base for your old fashioned chicken stew.
• 1 teaspoon salt – essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the chicken and vegetables.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – adds a subtle kick to the stew without overwhelming the palate.
For the Base
• 3 tablespoons butter – provides richness and a deep flavor profile; use unsalted if preferred.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – gives a lovely depth while helping to achieve that golden browning on the chicken.
• 1 yellow onion – diced, it brings sweetness and aroma, creating the foundation of flavor.
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic – adds a fragrant touch that elevates the dish to savory heights.
For the Vegetables
• 4 carrots – peeled and cut into bite-sized chunks, they bring natural sweetness and vibrant color.
• 4 celery ribs – trimmed and sliced, they add a satisfying crunch and aromatic quality.
• 1 1/2 pounds red potatoes – scrubbed and cut into bite-sized chunks, these hearty tubers add substance to the stew.
For the Broth and Herbs
• 4 cups chicken broth – this rich base helps create a delightful depth of flavor; homemade or store-bought works!
• 1 teaspoon ground sage – imparts a warm, earthy aroma that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme – adds an herbal freshness, making the stew incredibly fragrant.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary – provides a robust, pine-like essence that enhances the savory notes.
• 4 whole bay leaves – these infuse subtle depth during cooking and are easy to remove later.
For Thickening
• 1/4 cup cold water – helps create a smooth slurry when mixed with cornstarch for a perfect finish.
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch – this helps thicken the old fashioned chicken stew, giving it a comforting texture.
For Garnish
• 2 teaspoons chopped fresh parsley – brightens the dish and adds a pop of color just before serving.
How to Make Old Fashioned Chicken Stew
- Melt In a large pot, melt 3 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. This combination sets the perfect foundation for a flavorful stew.
- Sauté Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes. You’ll love how the aroma begins to fill your kitchen!
- Brown Add the chicken breast, salt, and black pepper, cooking until the chicken is browned on all sides. This step locks in the flavors and ensures your chicken is juicy.
- Combine Stir in the carrots, celery, and red potatoes, allowing them to mingle with the chicken for a few minutes. Their vibrant colors will brighten your pot!
- Pour Pour in the chicken broth, and then add ground sage, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and bay leaves. Each herb adds depth, making the stew irresistibly fragrant.
- Simmer Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender. Check for the perfect tenderness!
- Whisk In a small bowl, combine the cold water and cornstarch, mixing until smooth. This will help thicken your stew beautifully.
- Stir Stir the cornstarch mixture into the stew and cook for an additional 5 minutes, until the stew thickens. Watch as it transforms into a hearty delight!
- Finish Remove bay leaves, then stir in chopped fresh parsley before serving. This final touch adds a burst of freshness and color to your warm creation.
Optional: Serve with crusty bread for a delightful dipping experience.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Old Fashioned Chicken Stew
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Quality Ingredients: Use fresh chicken and seasonal vegetables for the best flavor. Avoid overcooking the chicken to maintain its juiciness.
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Sautéing Technique: Make sure to sauté the onions and garlic until just translucent. Over-browning them can lead to bitterness in your old fashioned chicken stew.
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Herb Timing: Add delicate ingredients like parsley at the end to preserve their freshness. Cooking them too long can rob them of their vibrant flavor.
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Thickening Trick: Mix cornstarch with cold water thoroughly before adding it to the stew. Lumps can form if it’s added without combining, leading to an uneven texture.
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Taste as You Go: Always taste the stew along the way and adjust seasoning to your preference. This ensures a perfectly balanced old fashioned chicken stew every time!
What to Serve with Old Fashioned Chicken Stew?
As you savor each comforting spoonful of your stew, consider these delightful accompaniments to create a full, heartwarming meal.
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Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, this bread adds texture and complements the broth beautifully while soaking up all the delicious flavors.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: They bring a rich creaminess to the meal, allowing for a delightful contrast in both flavor and texture with the hearty stew.
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Fresh Salad: A light, crisp salad provides a refreshing balance to the rich stew, brightening your plate with color and crunch.
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Roasted Root Vegetables: Their natural sweetness and caramelization pairs wonderfully with the savory notes of the stew, elevating your dining experience.
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Herb Rice: Infused with fresh herbs, this aromatic rice becomes a fragrant base, allowing the stew’s flavors to shine even more.
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Buttermilk Biscuits: Fluffy and tender, these biscuits are perfect for sopping up every last drop of the delicious broth.
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Apple Cider: This seasonal drink adds a sweet, tangy note that contrasts beautifully with the savory fare, enhancing the cozy atmosphere.
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Chocolate Cake: For dessert, a slice of rich chocolate cake provides a decadent finish, leaving everyone with a sweet memory of the meal.
Let each of these pairings inspire not just satisfaction, but a delightful gathering around your dinner table, making every meal a cherished occasion.
Old Fashioned Chicken Stew Variations
Feel free to put your personal twist on this delightful stew and tailor it to your family’s taste!
- Dairy-Free: Use olive oil instead of butter for a rich flavor while keeping it completely dairy-free.
- Vegetable-Packed: Add bell peppers and zucchini for an extra boost of vitamins and vibrant colors. The stew becomes a garden of flavors!
- Spicy Kick: Toss in red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for some heat that dances on your palate. Just a pinch can make all the difference!
- Herby Boost: Fresh herbs like dill or basil can replace dried thyme and rosemary for a lively, fragrant twist. They elevate the classic flavor profile beautifully.
- Low-Carb Option: Swap out potatoes for cauliflower florets for a lighter, low-carb version that’s still filling and delicious. The texture remains comforting and satisfying.
- Savory Substitute: For a different protein, use diced turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option that holds onto those hearty flavors. They soak up the delicious broth!
- Citrus Zing: Add a splash of lemon juice right before serving to brighten the stew and enhance the overall flavor. It adds a refreshing twist that surprises!
- Right from the Garden: Incorporate seasonal vegetables like butternut squash or green beans, depending on what you have on hand. Your stew will change with the seasons, keeping it fun and dynamic!
How to Store and Freeze Old Fashioned Chicken Stew
Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow the stew to cool before storing to maintain quality.
Freezer: Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. This makes for a quick meal on busy nights while preserving the old fashioned chicken stew flavors.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm on the stove over medium heat until heated through. Add a splash of broth if it looks too thick.
Room Temperature: Don’t leave the stew out for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety. Enjoy the cozy warmth right after cooking!
Make Ahead Options
These Old Fashioned Chicken Stew ingredients make it a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can chop the vegetables and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Season and cube the chicken ahead of time, keeping it marinated in the fridge for up to 24 hours to enhance flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy the stew, simply sauté the prepared vegetables and chicken, add the broth and herbs, and follow the remaining cooking steps as directed. This way, you’ll have a comforting and delicious meal with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
Old Fashioned Chicken Stew Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best chicken for this stew?
Absolutely! Look for boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are bright pink in color and have a clean, fresh smell. Avoid any packaging with dark spots or that feels slimy. The fresher the chicken, the better the flavor for your Old Fashioned Chicken Stew!
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Very! Store your leftover Old Fashioned Chicken Stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool completely before storing to maintain its deliciousness and quality.
Can I freeze Old Fashioned Chicken Stew?
Yes! Portion it out into freezer-safe containers, leaving some room for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply move it to the fridge the night before you plan to enjoy it. Reheat on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth if it’s too thick.
What should I do if my stew is too thick?
If you find your stew too thick after cooking, no worries! Simply whisk together a little bit of broth or water with some cornstarch, and stir it into the stew over low heat until you achieve your desired consistency. This should only take a few minutes!
Can I make this stew in advance?
Definitely! This Old Fashioned Chicken Stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just follow the original recipe, cool it down properly, and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
Is this recipe suitable for my kids and pets?
While the stew is kid-friendly due to its mild flavors, be sure to check for any specific allergies they might have, particularly with the herbs. For your pets, it’s best to serve them plain, cooked chicken without any seasoning to ensure their safety and health.
Old Fashioned Chicken Stew That Will Warm Your Heart
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, melt 3 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the chicken breast, salt, and black pepper, cooking until the chicken is browned on all sides.
- Stir in the carrots, celery, and red potatoes, allowing them to mingle with the chicken for a few minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth, and then add ground sage, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and bay leaves.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 20-25 minutes.
- In a small bowl, combine the cold water and cornstarch, mixing until smooth.
- Stir the cornstarch mixture into the stew and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Remove bay leaves, then stir in chopped fresh parsley before serving.