If you are craving a soul-warming meal that bursts with flavor and comfort, this Hearty Chicken Stew with Vegetables and Tomato Broth Recipe is exactly what you need. Packed with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a rich tomato-infused broth, every spoonful is a satisfying hug on a chilly day. Whether it’s a family dinner or a lazy weekend treat, this stew brings together wholesome ingredients into a perfect balance of taste, texture, and nourishment.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things wonderfully straightforward, relying on fresh, everyday ingredients that each play a crucial role. From the earthiness of baby potatoes to the brightness of green beans, every component builds toward a stew that’s both hearty and full of character.
- Olive oil: Provides a flavorful base for browning the chicken and sautéing vegetables.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning throughout to deepen the stew’s overall flavor.
- Garlic cloves: Minced to release a fragrant, savory aroma that enriches the broth.
- Onion: Sliced thinly to add sweetness and depth during the sautéing process.
- Carrots: Peeled and sliced to bring natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- Celery stalks: Offer a fresh, crisp bite and subtle herbal notes.
- Baby potatoes: Halved to absorb the flavorful tomato broth while adding hearty texture.
- Mushrooms: Halved or quartered to contribute umami richness and earthiness.
- Green beans: Trimmed and halved for a pop of bright green color and slight crunch.
- Boneless skinless chicken thighs: Cut into pieces for juicy tenderness and deep flavor.
- Beef stock (low sodium): Acts as a savory, full-bodied liquid base for the stew.
- Flour: Helps thicken the broth into a luscious, velvety sauce.
- Crushed canned tomatoes: Bring acidity and richness that define the tomato broth.
- Worcestershire sauce: Adds complexity and subtle tanginess to the stew.
- Dried thyme: Provides an earthy, aromatic herb note that complements the chicken.
- Dried bay leaves: Infuse gentle layers of flavor throughout the simmering process.
How to Make Hearty Chicken Stew with Vegetables and Tomato Broth Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Chicken to Perfection
Start by heating olive oil in a large heavy-based casserole or Dutch oven over high heat. Once it’s hot, add the chicken pieces, seasoning them well with salt and pepper. Cooking these until browned on all sides, about 5 to 7 minutes, locks in juices and builds that irresistible depth of flavor. After they’re gorgeously golden, set the chicken aside—this initial step gives your stew a fantastic foundation.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, now infused with chicken flavor, toss in the minced garlic and sliced onions. Cook them just until fragrant and translucent, about a minute. This quick sauté softens the onions and lets the garlic’s savory aroma bloom, preparing a tasty base for your vegetable medley.
Step 3: Add Carrots and Celery
Next, stir in sliced carrots and celery. Allow them to cook for about two minutes, giving their natural sweetness a chance to start melding into the stew. This step softens the vegetables just enough, so they contribute a gentle texture without losing their character.
Step 4: Deglaze and Build the Base
For an extra flavor boost, if you have some on hand, splash a bit of wine into the pot and let it cook for two minutes to evaporate the alcohol and concentrate the taste. Sprinkle in the flour, stirring constantly for 1 to 2 minutes to create a roux. This thickening agent is key to achieving that perfect velvety tomato broth consistency.
Step 5: Add Liquids and Seasonings
Gradually pour in half of the beef stock, stirring steadily to avoid lumps. Then pour in the remaining broth and mix well. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, bay leaves, and season again with salt and pepper. This aromatic tomato broth brings the stew to life, melding savory, tangy, and herbaceous notes seamlessly.
Step 6: Simmer with Potatoes and Chicken
Return the browned chicken to the pot, then add the halved baby potatoes. Cover with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Allow this cozy mixture to simmer gently for 30 minutes. During this time, the potatoes soak up the rich broth while the chicken cooks thoroughly, resulting in tender pieces and melded flavors.
Step 7: Finish with Mushrooms and Green Beans
Remove the lid and add your mushrooms and green beans. Cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, just until the vegetables become tender and the sauce thickens slightly. This final touch adds earthiness and that vibrant green pop that will brighten up your bowl.
Step 8: Ready to Serve
Before serving, fish out the bay leaves and optionally garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Your Hearty Chicken Stew with Vegetables and Tomato Broth Recipe is now ready to bring warmth and joy to your table!
How to Serve Hearty Chicken Stew with Vegetables and Tomato Broth Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or thyme adds a lovely herbaceous brightness that contrasts beautifully with the rich tomato broth. For an extra touch, a dollop of sour cream or a grating of sharp cheddar can lend creaminess and depth.
Side Dishes
This stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for dipping, buttery mashed potatoes to soak up every bit of broth, or even a simple green salad to keep things light and fresh alongside the hearty main.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your stew in rustic earthenware bowls to highlight its homey charm or consider individual ramekins for a charming single-serve presentation. For a fun twist, pour the stew over creamy polenta or fluffy couscous for added texture and flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Hearty Chicken Stew with Vegetables and Tomato Broth Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors actually deepen, making it tastier the next day.
Freezing
This stew freezes wonderfully. Divide it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking. You may want to add a splash of broth or water if the stew has thickened too much during storage. Microwaving is also an option, just be sure to stir halfway through reheating for even warmth.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used, though thighs tend to stay juicier and more flavorful during the long simmer. If using breasts, keep an eye on cooking time to avoid drying out.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, simply replace the chicken with hearty mushrooms or plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead of beef stock to keep the rich base. The tomato broth remains delicious and comforting either way.
Can I prepare this stew in a slow cooker?
Definitely! Brown the chicken first for optimal flavor, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Add delicate vegetables like green beans near the end to avoid overcooking them.
What type of wine is best for deglazing?
A dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay works beautifully to add brightness. If you prefer red, a light-bodied one like Pinot Noir is a great match. If you’d rather skip alcohol, simply use a little extra broth or water.
How can I thicken the stew if it’s too watery?
Gradually stirring in a slurry of flour or cornstarch mixed with cold water can help thicken the stew quickly. Alternatively, simmering uncovered for a few extra minutes allows the broth to reduce naturally for concentration.
Final Thoughts
This Hearty Chicken Stew with Vegetables and Tomato Broth Recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s a warm, comforting experience that fills your kitchen with amazing aromas and your soul with happiness. Perfect for any season, it’s a dish you’ll find yourself returning to again and again. So go ahead, give it a try and savor each delicious, hearty spoonful!
