how to make The Best Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew

Let’s face it—we all have those evenings when we just want something warm, filling, and fuss-free on the table. That’s exactly where Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew comes to the rescue. This soul-soothing dish is more than just comfort food—it’s a healthy stew for weight loss, packed with protein, vibrant veggies, and herbs that make your kitchen smell like pure happiness.

Whether you’re juggling work, soccer practice, or just trying to sneak more veggies into your family’s diet (without hearing complaints), this chicken stew will become your go-to. It’s got all the cozy vibes of grandma’s cooking but with the ease and speed modern life demands.

Why You’ll Love This Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew

✔️ Wholesome, healthy, and filling
✔️ Loaded with fiber-rich vegetables and lean protein
✔️ Perfect for meal prep and freezer-friendly
✔️ Ready in one stewing pot—less cleanup, more time for you

You don’t need a culinary degree or fancy equipment—just a big ol’ pot, some pantry staples, and about an hour. Pour yourself a cup of tea (or wine, I won’t judge) and let’s get stewing.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what goes into this magic-in-a-pot:

Flat lay of fresh ingredients for hearty chicken and vegetable stew

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs – Tender and flavorful, without the dryness of chicken breast.
  • 1/4 cup flour – Lightly coats the chicken for a golden sear and thickens your stew.
  • 2 tbsp butter – Because life’s too short for flavorless stew.
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1.5 lbs small gold potatoes (or Yukon Golds, cut into chunks)
  • 4 cups broth – Half vegetable, half chicken for a deep, savory base.
  • 1 tsp each of dried parsley, thyme, rosemary, and sage – AKA the smell of happiness.
  • Salt & pepper to taste

How to Cook Vegetable Stew That Everyone Will Actually Eat

Even picky eaters can’t say no to this one. Follow these steps and you’ll be a stew-making pro in no time.

  1. Prep your chicken.
    Lightly coat the chicken thighs with flour, salt, and pepper. It helps lock in moisture and gives your stew a silky gravy texture later.
  2. Sear it real good.
    Heat a large stewing pot over medium heat, add the butter, and brown the chicken on both sides until golden. No need to cook through—we’ll get there. Remove and set aside.
  3. Build the flavor base.
    In the same pot (don’t you dare clean it!), toss in the onion, carrot, celery, and garlic. Sauté until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
  4. Add potatoes & herbs.
    Stir in the potatoes and sprinkle in those magical herbs. You’ll feel like a kitchen witch in the best way possible.
  5. Add the broth and bring it all together.
    Pour in the chicken and veggie broth, then return the chicken to the pot. Cover and let it simmer for 35–40 minutes until the potatoes are tender and your house smells like fall wrapped in a blanket.
  6. Shred and serve.
    Take the chicken out, shred or chop it, then toss it back in. Give it a taste, adjust your seasoning, and serve warm.

A Few Tips to Make It Even Easier

  • No small gold potatoes? Use Yukon golds cut into 1-inch cubes—they’re creamy and hold up well in stews.
  • Make it ahead. This chicken stew actually tastes better the next day. Just store it in the fridge and reheat gently.
  • Want it thicker? Let the stew simmer uncovered for 10–15 extra minutes at the end.
  • Add-ins welcome! A handful of spinach or peas at the end adds color and even more nutrition.

My Go-To Cold Weather Savior

Okay, real talk—this Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew has saved dinner at my house more times than I can count. I first whipped it up on a snowy Thursday night when I was out of dinner ideas and patience. My kids devoured it (even the carrots!), and now it’s a regular on our menu when we need something warm, easy, and nourishing.

FAQs About Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

You can, but keep in mind chicken breast can get a little dry in a stew. Thighs stay tender and juicy, which is why I love them for this dish.

How do I store leftovers?

Pop the cooled stew into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Just brown the chicken first, then toss everything into your slow cooker and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

Is this a healthy stew for weight loss?

It sure is! With lean protein, lots of veggies, and minimal added fat, this stew is hearty without being heavy—perfect for anyone watching their waistline.

Conclusion

A warm bowl of Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew is more than just dinner—it’s a hug in a bowl, a way to slow down and nourish yourself (and your crew) without stress. Whether you’re looking for a healthy stew for weight loss, trying to figure out how to cook vegetable stew without making it bland, or just craving some comfort food, this one’s got your back.

Now go grab that stewing pot, and let’s get cozy. ❤️

More Cozy Chicken Favorites to Try Next

If this Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew warmed your soul and made dinner feel a little easier, you’re going to love exploring more of our comforting chicken creations. For another one-pot wonder that’s both satisfying and ideal for busy nights, check out this ultra-creamy Creamy Lemon Orzo Chicken Soup—it’s like a hug in a bowl with a citrusy twist.

Craving something with a little more flair? These crispy-on-the-outside, fluffy-on-the-inside Crispy Chicken and Potato Doughnuts are a fun and flavorful spin on dinner that even the pickiest eaters will devour.

And if you’re on the hunt for more healthy stew for weight loss options, don’t miss our hearty and nourishing Healthy Chicken Tortilla Soup—it’s packed with bold flavors and just the right amount of kick to keep things interesting.

Dinner just got a whole lot more exciting—and just as easy. ❤️

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Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew in a rustic bowl with steam and fresh herbs

Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew


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  • Author: Aneta
  • Total Time: 55 mins
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

This Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew is the ultimate comfort food—rich, flavorful, and packed with tender chicken thighs, hearty potatoes, and colorful veggies. A one-pot meal perfect for cozy nights or healthy weekly meal prep.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs

  • 1/4 cup flour

  • 2 tbsp butter

  • 1 onion, diced

  • 2 carrots, sliced

  • 2 celery stalks, chopped

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1.5 lbs small gold potatoes (or Yukon Golds, cut into 1-inch chunks)

  • 2 cups chicken broth

  • 2 cups vegetable broth

  • 1 tsp dried parsley

  • 1 tsp dried thyme

  • 1 tsp dried rosemary

  • 1 tsp dried sage

  • Salt and pepper to taste


Instructions

  1. Lightly coat chicken thighs in flour, salt, and pepper.

  2. In a large stewing pot, melt butter over medium heat and sear the chicken until browned on both sides. Remove and set aside.

  3. In the same pot, sauté onion, carrots, celery, and garlic until soft and fragrant (about 5 minutes).

  4. Add potatoes, herbs, and pour in chicken and vegetable broth. Stir well.

  5. Return the chicken to the pot. Cover and simmer for 35–40 minutes until chicken is tender and potatoes are cooked through.

  6. Remove chicken, shred or chop, and return it to the stew.

  7. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Want a thicker stew? Simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes at the end.

  • This stew tastes even better the next day—hello, leftovers!

  • Add a handful of spinach or peas at the end for extra color and nutrition.

  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 40 mins
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 1.5 cups)
  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 580
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 26 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg

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