The Best Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew for Busy Weeknights

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Introduction

In the whirlwind of our busy lives, nothing soothes the soul (or fills the belly) quite like a steaming bowl of Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew. It’s the kind of dinner that hugs you from the inside, made with wholesome ingredients and just enough simplicity to keep your weeknights stress-free. Whether you’re looking for a meal prep lifesaver or a cozy dinner after work, this recipe is about to become your new go-to.

In this post, we’re diving into everything you need to know about making the ultimate Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew — from essential ingredients and prep tips to nutrition facts and flavor-boosting secrets. Let’s bring some comfort to your kitchen.

What is This Recipe?

Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew is a rich, thick, and flavorful meal that combines tender chicken with seasonal vegetables, herbs, and a savory broth. Unlike a thin soup, a stew is heartier (pun intended), often served as a complete meal with crusty bread or over rice. This recipe blends health and convenience, giving you a protein-packed dish filled with essential vitamins, fiber, and just enough comfort to make any weeknight feel special.

Whether you cook it on the stove, in a Dutch oven, or in your slow cooker, Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew adapts to your schedule and pantry. No fancy equipment. No fuss. Just a solid, flavorful, nutritious dinner.

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Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create a nourishing pot of Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew:

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts (cubed)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion (chopped)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 3 carrots (sliced)
• 2 celery stalks (sliced)
• 2 potatoes (diced)
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon rosemary
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon flour (for thickening)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: bay leaf, a splash of lemon juice for brightness

Alternative Ingredients

Don’t have everything on hand? No problem. The beauty of Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew is its flexibility.

• Swap chicken for turkey, tofu, or even chickpeas for a plant-based version.
• Use sweet potatoes instead of white potatoes for added sweetness and fiber.
• Add zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans to change things up.
• Replace flour with cornstarch or gluten-free alternatives for a GF-friendly version.
• Use fresh herbs if available — they elevate the flavor even more.

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Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Servings, and Yield

Prep Time	Cook Time	Total Time	Servings	Yield
15 minutes	45 minutes	1 hour	6 servings	1 large stew pot

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Key Features

• One-pot convenience
• Family-friendly
• Freezer-friendly
• Meal-prep approved
• High in protein and fiber
• Naturally gluten-free (if adjusted)
• Low-cost, pantry-friendly ingredients

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Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	Protein	Carbs	Fat	Fiber	Sodium
320 kcal	28g	22g	12g	5g	550mg

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Directions (Step-by-Step Guide to Making Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew)

Making Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew is more than just following a recipe — it’s an experience. Each step adds depth, flavor, and warmth to the dish. Below, you’ll find a detailed walk-through of the process that brings this comforting classic to life in your kitchen, even on the busiest of weeknights.

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Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients Like a Pro

Before the heat is on, do yourself a favor and prep everything. This means chopping, slicing, peeling, and measuring ahead of time. It’s what chefs call “mise en place,” and it’s a game-changer.

• Chicken: Cube the chicken into bite-sized pieces for quicker cooking and even distribution.
• Vegetables: Dice onions, carrots, celery, and potatoes into similar sizes so they cook evenly.
• Aromatics: Mince fresh garlic and measure your herbs and seasonings ahead.

Pro tip: If you’re short on time, use pre-cut veggies or even a frozen vegetable medley.

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Step 2: Sear the Chicken to Build Flavor

Warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a sturdy Dutch oven or a large, heavy-based pot over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Once the oil is shimmering, add the cubed chicken in batches. Don’t overcrowd the pot—give the pieces room to sear rather than steam.

• Why this matters: Searing locks in moisture and develops rich, caramelized flavor.
• Season well: Sprinkle a bit of salt and pepper during this stage for layering taste.

Once the chicken is browned on all sides (about 5-6 minutes), remove it and set it aside in a bowl. You’ll add it back later.

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Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics and Veggies

In the same pot (leave those flavorful brown bits at the bottom), lower the heat to medium and add a bit more olive oil if needed. Toss in the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 7–8 minutes, until they’re soft and the onions are translucent.

Now add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. The kitchen should be smelling amazing by this point — this is the flavor foundation of your Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew.

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Step 4: Add Tomato Paste and Flour for Body

Once the vegetables are softened, stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and 1 tablespoon of flour. This step thickens your stew naturally and deepens the color and richness.

• Cook this paste-flour mix for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly so it doesn’t stick or burn.
• The mixture should darken slightly and form a thick base that coats the veggies.

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Step 5: Deglaze and Simmer

Now it’s time to bring the stew to life. Pour in the 4 cups of chicken broth while scraping the bottom of the pot to lift up those browned bits (flavor gold). Return the seared chicken to the pot.

Add the diced potatoes, dried thyme, rosemary, and a bay leaf if you like. Stir well.

Turn the heat to high until the stew starts to boil, then immediately reduce it to low. Cover the pot loosely with a lid and let it simmer gently for 30–35 minutes.

During this time, the chicken becomes fork-tender, and the veggies melt into the broth to create that signature comforting texture.

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Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches

Five minutes before you’re ready to eat, stir in 1 cup of frozen peas. They’ll warm through quickly and bring a pop of color and sweetness.

Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning. Add more salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon juice if it needs brightness. A drizzle of olive oil or a knob of butter at the end can elevate the mouthfeel.

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Step 7: Serve with Style

Ladle the stew into deep bowls and serve piping hot. Pair it with:

• Crusty sourdough bread
• Buttery biscuits
• Steamed rice or quinoa

For a gourmet touch, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or thyme.

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Step 8: Store Like a Pro

Got leftovers? Lucky you. This stew stores like a dream.

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Let the stew cool completely, then freeze for up to 3 months in individual portions.

It reheats beautifully, making it a weekday win-win.

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Follow these simple steps to create a rich, comforting Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew that delivers deep flavor and wholesome satisfaction every time—no fuss, no shortcuts, just honest cooking done right.

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Pro Tips for a Perfect Stew

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s incredibly easy and requires only basic cooking skills.
• Packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables and lean protein.
• Perfect for families and picky eaters alike.
• You can customize it endlessly based on what’s in your fridge.
• It’s budget-friendly and ideal for batch cooking.

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What Makes This Recipe Unique?

Unlike many stew recipes, this Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew focuses on balance. It’s neither too heavy nor too light — just the right amount of comfort, protein, and vegetable goodness. What sets it apart is the combination of quick prep, customizable ingredients, and the ability to deliver slow-cooked flavor in under an hour. Plus, it tastes even better the next day, making it a true weeknight hero.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I freeze Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew?
Definitely! Just make sure it’s fully cooled first, then transfer it into airtight containers. It’ll keep perfectly in the freezer for up to three months.

What’s the best chicken cut to use?
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs give the best flavor and tenderness.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Just toss all ingredients in, cook on low for 6–8 hours, or high for 4 hours.

Is this stew gluten-free?
If you skip the flour or use a gluten-free thickener like cornstarch, then yes!

Can I add grains like rice or barley?
Sure! Cooked brown rice or barley can be stirred in at the end for added texture and fiber.

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You’ll Also Love

• Easy One-Pot Chicken and Rice
• Creamy Lentil and Vegetable Soup
• Slow Cooker Turkey Chili
• Quick Moroccan Chickpea Stew
• Roasted Vegetable Couscous Bowl

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Conclusion

If you’re looking for a recipe that checks all the boxes — healthy, comforting, affordable, and weeknight-friendly — then this Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew is your answer. It’s a classic with a modern twist, made for real life and real appetites.

Don’t forget to share your creations with #BeesRecipes on Instagram. We can’t wait to see your delicious take on this wholesome favorite

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