If you're in need of a little comfort and warmth, there's nothing quite like a steaming bowl of chicken stew to lift your spirits and soothe your soul. This classic comfort food has been a favorite of home cooks and chefs alike for generations, with countless variations and flavor combinations to suit any taste.
From classic chicken and vegetable stews to exotic dishes like coconut chicken curry, there are endless possibilities when it comes to chicken stews. Some recipes call for hearty root vegetables like carrots and potatoes, while others incorporate spicy chilies and fragrant herbs for a more complex flavor profile.
Not only is chicken stew delicious and satisfying, but it's also a nutritious way to get your daily dose of protein and veggies. And with the addition of comforting ingredients like noodles, dumplings, or rice, it's a meal that will leave you feeling full and satisfied.
In this article, we've compiled a list of seven delicious chicken stews that are sure to warm your heart and lift your spirits. Whether you're looking for a classic recipe or something with a little more flair, these stews are the perfect way to indulge in some comfort food and chase away the chill of winter.
So grab a spoon and a cozy blanket, and get ready to savor every delicious bite of these comforting chicken stews. You won't regret it!
Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Stew
This hearty stew is ideal for a chilly night in. Start by browning chicken thighs in a large pot with butter. Remove the chicken and add sliced mushrooms and minced garlic to the pot, cooking until the mushrooms are tender. Add flour to the mixture to thicken it, and then slowly pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Return the chicken to the pot and run the mixture until it is thoroughly cooked. Serve with crusty bread and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Taste: Creamy and comforting
Total Time: 45 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Calories per serving: 380
Spicy Chicken and Chorizo Stew
This Spanish-inspired stew is bursting with flavor. Begin by browning diced chorizo in a large pot with olive oil. Remove the chorizo and set it aside, then add diced chicken and diced onions to the pot. When the chicken is browned, add minced garlic, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Let the stew simmer for about 20 minutes before adding the chorizo back to the pot. Season with smoked paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper for some extra spice. Serve with crusty bread or rice.
Taste: Spicy and bold
Total Time: 40 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Calories per serving: 420
Lemon and Herb Chicken Stew
This light and fresh stew is perfect for springtime. Begin by browning diced chicken in a large pot with olive oil. Remove the chicken and add diced onions, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, then add minced garlic and chicken broth. Add the chicken back into the pot and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. Add fresh herbs like thyme and parsley, as well as lemon juice and zest. Season with a few cracks of salt and pepper to taste, and serve with toasted brioche.
Taste: Fresh and tangy
Total Time: 40 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Calories per serving: 290
Coconut Curry Chicken Stew
This rich and flavorful stew is perfect for those who love spice. Begin by browning diced chicken in a large pot with coconut oil. Remove the chicken and add diced onions, bell peppers, and garlic to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, then add curry powder, cumin, and coriander. Add chicken broth and canned coconut milk, then add the chicken back into the pot. Let the mixture simmer until the chicken is cooked through. Serve with rice or naan.
Taste: Spicy and exotic
Total Time: 45 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Calories per serving: 480
White Bean and Chicken Stew
This hearty stew is perfect for a chilly night in. Begin by browning diced chicken in a large pot with olive oil. Remove the chicken and add diced onions, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, then add minced garlic and chicken broth. Add canned white beans and let the stew simmer until it thickens. Add the chicken back into the pot and season with rosemary and thyme. Serve with crusty sourdough bread.
Taste: Hearty and comforting
Total Time: 45 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Calories per serving: 350
Tomato and Fennel Chicken Stew
This light and refreshing stew is perfect for summer. Begin by browning diced chicken in a large pot with olive oil. Remove the chicken and add diced fennel, onion, and garlic to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, then add diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Let the stew simmer for about 20 minutes before adding the chicken back to the pot. Add fresh thyme and a splash of white wine to the mixture. Add salt and pepper to taste, and serve with toasted rye bread.
Taste: Fresh and tangy
Total Time: 40 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Calories per serving: 260
Tuscan Chicken Stew
This hearty and comforting stew is perfect for a cold winter night. Begin by browning diced chicken in a large pot with olive oil. Remove the chicken and add diced onions, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, then add minced garlic, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Add cannellini beans, kale, and fresh rosemary to the pot and let the stew simmer until it thickens. Add the chicken back into the pot and season with a few cracks of salt and pepper to taste. Serve with toasted baguette slices.
Taste: Hearty and savory
Total Time: 50 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Calories per serving: 380
Chicken stews are the perfect meal for any occasion, whether it's a cozy night in or a summer evening with friends. The versatility of chicken as an ingredient makes it easy to create a wide range of delicious stews that cater to different taste preferences. From the spicy and bold Spicy Chicken and Chorizo Stew to the light and tangy Lemon and Herb Chicken Stew, these dishes are sure to lift your spirits and warm your soul. So next time you're in need of a comforting and satisfying meal, grab a pot and start cooking up one of these delicious chicken stews. Your taste buds will thank you.