Old Fashioned Chicken Stew Recipe

A steaming bowl of this old-fashioned chicken stew recipe gently simmering on the stove brings me back to chilly evenings when the comforting aroma would fill the kitchen and draw everyone around the table for a hearty meal. This recipe blends tender chicken with vibrant vegetables and aromatic herbs, recreating cherished memories in every delicious spoonful.

Whether you're looking to warm up on a cold day or simply craving a wholesome meal, this old fashioned chicken stew recipe is perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into why this stew has stood the test of time and how you can make it a staple in your home cookery.

— ✦ —

Top Reasons to Fall in Love with This Recipe?

This old fashioned chicken stew recipe is a beloved classic for many reasons. First, its simplicity makes it accessible to cooks of all skill levels. Using simple components and clear instructions, it's possible to create a delicious meal without the hassle.

Secondly, the flavors meld beautifully over time, allowing each ingredient to shine while contributing to the stew's rich, cohesive taste. The combination of tender chicken, earthy vegetables, and fragrant herbs creates a harmonious balance that’s both comforting and satisfying.

Additionally, this stew is incredibly versatile. It’s simple to modify it according to your preferences or dietary needs, whether by adding different vegetables, adjusting the seasoning, or incorporating additional proteins. Its ability to be made ahead and stored also makes it a convenient option for meal planning.

Lastly, the old fashioned chicken stew recipe is not just a meal; it's a warm, hearty experience that brings people together, which makes it an ideal choice for family meals or friendly get-togethers.

— ✦ —

Ingredients

Gathering the right ingredients is essential for a delicious old fashioned chicken stew recipe. Here's what you'll need:

• 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• two tablespoons of unsalted butter
• one tablespoon of olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 carrots, sliced
• 3 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 5 red potatoes, diced
• 2 bay leaves
• one teaspoon of ground sage
• one teaspoon of dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch or 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Alternatives

If you want to customize the old fashioned chicken stew recipe, here are some alternatives you can consider:

• Chicken Cuts: You can use bone-in chicken thighs for more flavor or chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat.
• Vegetables: Substitute carrots and celery with parsnips or sweet potatoes for a different twist.
• Dairy-Free Options: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream to keep the stew creamy without dairy.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free and use a gluten-free thickener if needed.

— ✦ —

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

Start by preparing your chicken. Cut the 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs into bite-sized pieces. Sprinkle a liberal amount of salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavor. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat two tablespoons of unsalted butter and one tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces and cook until they are browned on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Take the chicken out of the pot and place it aside.

Chopping and Cooking the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the diced 1 large onion, 3 cloves minced garlic, 4 sliced carrots, and 3 chopped celery stalks. Sauté the vegetables until they begin to soften and cook the onions until they turn translucent, about five minutes. This step builds the foundational flavors of your stew.

Combining Ingredients for Optimal Flavor

Return the browned chicken to the pot with the vegetables. Pour in 4 cups chicken broth to cover the ingredients. Add the 5 diced red potatoes, 2 bay leaves, one teaspoon of ground sage, one teaspoon of dried thyme, and 1 teaspoon dried rosemary. Stir everything together, ensuring the spices are well distributed. This combination creates a robust and savory base for your stew.

Simmering to Achieve Perfect Texture

Bring the mixture to a gentle bring to a boil, then lower the heat and allow it to simmer for about 45 minutes to an hour. The aim is to let the flavors combine harmoniously and the vegetables to become tender. During this time, the chicken will absorb the rich flavors of the broth and herbs, resulting in a deeply flavorful stew.

Final Touches and Garnishing

Once the stew has reached the desired consistency and the vegetables are tender, it's time to add the final touches. Should you desire a heartier stew, prepare a cornstarch slurry by mixing 2 tablespoons cornstarch with a bit of water and stir it into the pot. Alternatively, for a creamier texture, stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream. Modify the seasoning by adding more salt and pepper if needed. Remove the bay leaves, and garnish the stew with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

— ✦ —

Common mistakes to avoid

Overcooking the Chicken

One common mistake when making an old fashioned chicken stew recipe is overcooking the chicken. If cooked for too long, the chicken can become dry and tough. To prevent this, add the chicken later in the cooking process or monitor the stew closely to ensure the chicken remains tender.

Underseasoning the Stew

Underseasoning can lead to a bland stew. Make sure to season each component properly with salt and pepper, and don't be afraid to tweak the seasoning near the end of the cooking process to enhance the overall flavor.

Incorrect Thickening Techniques

Thickening the stew incorrectly can affect its texture. Whether you choose to use a cornstarch slurry or heavy cream, add the thickening agent gradually and stir continuously to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth consistency.

Not Allowing Enough Simmering Time

Allowing the stew to simmer long enough is crucial for the flavors to develop fully. Rushing this step can result in a stew that hasn't fully absorbed the rich flavors of the ingredients.

— ✦ —

Expert Tips & Tricks

Enhancing Flavor with Fresh Herbs

Adding fresh herbs can improve the taste of your old fashioned chicken stew recipe. Fresh thyme, rosemary, and parsley not only add vibrant flavors but also enhance the visual appeal of the dish.

Achieving the Perfect Consistency

The consistency of the stew is a matter of personal preference. For a thicker stew, use a cornstarch slurry, and for a creamier texture, incorporate heavy cream. Always add these gradually to reach your desired thickness.

Maximizing Chicken Moisture

To maintain the chicken's tenderness, prevent overcooking and consider using bone-in thighs, which tend to retain moisture better than breasts. Additionally, adding a splash of chicken broth towards the end can help maintain the stew's moisture.

Using Quality Ingredients for Best Results

Opt for high-quality chicken and fresh vegetables to ensure your stew is flavorful and nutritious. Fresh, organic ingredients can make a significant impact on the flavor and general quality of the dish.

— ✦ —

Serving Suggestions

Pairing with Homemade Biscuits

Serve your old fashioned chicken stew recipe with homemade biscuits for a classic combination. The flaky biscuits complement the hearty stew perfectly, providing a nice contrast in texture.

Serving with Fresh Parsley Garnish

Sprinkling fresh parsley not only brings vibrant color but also a hint of freshness to the rich flavors of the stew. It's a simple yet effective way to elevate your presentation.

Complementary Side Dishes

Consider serving the stew alongside a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to add variety and balance to your meal. These sides can improve the overall dining experience by providing varied textures and flavors.

Presentation Tips for a Cozy Meal

For a cozy meal presentation, serve the stew in deep bowls and garnish with a sprig of thyme or a dash of paprika. Using rustic serving ware can also add to the homely feel of the dish.

— ✦ —

Old Fashioned Chicken Stew Recipe: Ingredient Substitutions

Substituting Chicken Cuts in the Old Fashioned Chicken Stew Recipe

If you prefer different chicken cuts, bone-in thighs or drumsticks can add more flavor and richness to the stew. Alternatively, chicken breasts can be used for a leaner option, though they may require careful cooking to prevent drying out.

Alternative Vegetables for the Old Fashioned Chicken Stew Recipe

Feel free to swap out vegetables based on your preference or what's in season. Potatoes can be replaced with sweet potatoes, parsnips, or turnips, and carrots can be substituted with bell peppers or zucchini for added variety.

Dairy-Free Options in the Old Fashioned Chicken Stew Recipe

For a dairy-free version, omit the butter and heavy cream. Instead, use olive oil for sautéing and coconut milk or a dairy-free milk alternative to achieve a creamy texture without dairy.

Gluten-Free Thickening Methods for the Old Fashioned Chicken Stew Recipe

To keep the stew gluten-free, use cornstarch or arrowroot powder as a thickening agent instead of flour. Ensure that your chicken broth is also labeled gluten-free to avoid any unintended gluten content.

— ✦ —

Old Fashioned Chicken Stew Recipe: Cooking Techniques

Slow Cooking the Old Fashioned Chicken Stew Recipe

Using a slow cooker can enhance the flavors of your old fashioned chicken stew recipe by allowing the ingredients to meld over several hours. Simply transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker after browning the chicken and vegetables, then cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Using Pressure Cooking for the Old Fashioned Chicken Stew Recipe

Using a pressure cooker can greatly cut down the cooking duration while still delivering a flavorful stew. Cook on high pressure for about 25 minutes, then allow a natural release to maintain the stew's texture and richness.

Adjusting Cooking Times for the Old Fashioned Chicken Stew Recipe

Depending on your cooking method, adjust the simmering time accordingly. While stovetop cooking requires about an hour, slow cooking and pressure cooking will vary, so always ensure the chicken is tender and the vegetables are fully cooked before serving.

Enhancing Flavor Profiles in the Old Fashioned Chicken Stew Recipe

To deepen the flavor, consider adding some white wine or a tablespoon of tomato paste during the cooking process. These extras can contribute depth and richness to the stew's overall flavor profile.

— ✦ —

Old Fashioned Chicken Stew Recipe: Nutritional Information

Nutritional Breakdown of the Old Fashioned Chicken Stew Recipe

This old fashioned chicken stew recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It provides a balanced mix of protein from the chicken, vitamins from the vegetables, and healthy fats from the olive oil and butter.

Calorie Count per Serving in Old Fashioned Chicken Stew Recipe

Each serving of this stew contains approximately 350 calories, turning it into a filling and fulfilling meal a choice that aligns nicely with a balanced diet.

Health Benefits of Ingredients in the Old Fashioned Chicken Stew Recipe

The stew is rich in protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. Vegetables like carrots and celery provide vitamins A and K, while herbs like thyme and rosemary offer antioxidants that support overall health.

Adjusting the Old Fashioned Chicken Stew Recipe for Dietary Needs

To accommodate various dietary requirements, you can make several adjustments. For a lower-calorie version, use lean chicken breast and reduce the amount of butter. To make it dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk, and for gluten-free needs, ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.

— ✦ —

Recipe Troubleshooting

If your old fashioned chicken stew recipe isn’t turning out as expected, consider the following troubleshooting tips:

• Stew is too watery: Increase the thickness by adding more cornstarch slurry or allow it to simmer longer to reduce the liquid.
• Stew lacks flavor: Ensure you’ve adequately seasoned with salt and pepper, and consider adding more herbs or a splash of wine for depth.
• Chicken is dry: Monitor the cooking time closely and consider using bone-in thighs which retain moisture better.
• Vegetables are undercooked: Extend the simmering time until all vegetables reach the desired tenderness.

— ✦ —

Storage recommendations

Best Before Timeframe

This old fashioned chicken stew recipe can be refrigerated for up to five days. For longer storage, it can be frozen for up to 3 months without compromising its quality.

Storing techniques

To store the stew, let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. For freezing, portion the stew into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to maintain the stew's texture and flavor.

— ✦ —

Variations

Adding Dumplings

For an extra touch of comfort, add dumplings to your old fashioned chicken stew recipe. Prepare a simple dough with flour, baking powder, milk, and a bit of butter, then drop spoonfuls onto the simmering stew. Cover and cook until the dumplings turn light and fluffy and fully cooked.

Incorporating Additional Vegetables

Enhance your stew by adding more vegetables such as peas, green beans, or mushrooms. These additions not only increase the nutritional value but also introduce varied textures and tastes to the meal.

Using Different Herbs and Spices

Try out different herbs and spices to tailor the stew to your taste. Including a dash of smoked paprika or a bay leaf can introduce new flavor dimensions.

Healthier Ingredient Swaps

Make your stew healthier by swapping out certain ingredients. Use leaner chicken cuts, reduce the amount of butter, or incorporate whole grains like barley instead of potatoes for added fiber.

— ✦ —

Wrap-Up

Creating an old fashioned chicken stew recipe serves as a fantastic method to infuse warmth and coziness to your table. Its rich flavors and hearty ingredients turn it into an ideal meal for any event, particularly during the colder months. I hope you enjoy making and savoring this stew as much as I do. Don’t forget to share your experiences and let us know how the recipe turned out for you!

If you loved this stew, you might also enjoy our white chicken chili crockpot, another comforting and easy-to-make dish that's perfect for busy days.