Dinner Recipes

Hearty Chicken Stew with Fresh Vegetables

By Emily · August 22, 2025

This Hearty Chicken Stew with Fresh Vegetables is everything you want on a chilly day. Tender chunks of chicken simmered with carrots, potatoes, peas, and celery in a thick, flavorful broth make for a comforting and filling meal. The fresh vegetables add a nice bit of color and natural sweetness that balances the savory chicken perfectly.

I love making this stew because it’s straightforward and feels like a big, warm hug in a bowl. There’s something so satisfying about slow-cooked chicken falling apart and the vegetables soaking up all those tasty juices. I usually toss in a few herbs like thyme or parsley to brighten up the flavors even more, but it’s great just as is!

For me, this stew is best served with some crusty bread or over a scoop of rice to soak up all the goodness. It’s one of those meals that always warms up the whole kitchen and brings everyone to the table with smiles. Whenever I make it, I’m reminded of cozy family dinners and easy comfort food that hits the spot every single time.

How Do You Make Sure the Chicken Stays Tender and Flavorful?

Cooking the chicken just right is key to a tasty stew. Follow these tips:

• Cut chicken into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
• Don’t rush the simmer. Cooking low and slow helps keep the meat tender.
• Add chicken to the pot after sautéing the veggies to lock in flavor.
• Check the stew occasionally and stir gently to avoid breaking up the chicken too much.
• If you want an extra boost, brown the chicken in the pot first before adding veggies and broth. This adds richness.

With these steps, your chicken will be moist and delicious every time!

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large heavy-bottom pot or Dutch oven – great for even heat distribution and slow simmering.
• Wooden spoon – perfect for stirring without scratching your pot.
• Chef’s knife – makes chopping vegetables and cutting chicken quick and safe.
• Cutting board – a sturdy surface helps with prepping all your fresh veggies.
• Ladle – handy for serving hot stew into bowls without spills.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

• Swap chicken for turkey breast or cooked sausage to change the meat’s taste and texture.
• Add mushrooms for a richer, earthier flavor that pairs well with the herbs.
• Stir in a dash of smoked paprika or cayenne for a spicy kick when you want some heat.
• Mix in a handful of kale or spinach near the end for extra color and nutrients.

How to Make Hearty Chicken Stew with Fresh Vegetables

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Main Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• 3 celery stalks, sliced
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 4 cups chicken broth

Herbs & Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Additions:

• 1 cup frozen peas
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

How Much Time Will You Need?

This stew takes about 15 minutes to prepare and chop your ingredients, then around 35 minutes to cook until the chicken is tender and the vegetables are soft. So, in total, plan for about 50 minutes to make this cozy meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Sauté Onion and Garlic:

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until they soften and smell wonderful, about 3 to 4 minutes.

2. Cook the Vegetables:

Next, add the sliced carrots, celery, and diced potatoes to the pot. Stir everything gently and cook for another 5 minutes, letting the veggies start to soften.

3. Add Chicken, Tomatoes, and Broth:

Now, add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), the bite-sized chicken pieces, and the chicken broth. Stir to mix all the ingredients together well.

4. Season and Simmer:

Sprinkle in the dried basil, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir again, bring the stew to a boil, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for 30 to 35 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender.

5. Finish with Peas and Garnish:

If you want to add peas, stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking so they stay bright and tender. Before serving, taste the stew and add extra salt or pepper if needed. Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.