Best Ever Chicken Stew
A hearty chicken stew packed with vegetables and savory flavors, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers seeking a nourishing, flavorful meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put the whole chicken in 3 1/2 quarts of water in a large Dutch oven. Add the bay leaf, ham hock bone, chopped onions, and parsley.
- Cook for about 45 minutes.
- Remove the whole chicken from the water and discard the bones.
- Return the chicken to the pot.
- Add the chopped celery, canned tomatoes, frozen lima beans, canned sweet corn, chopped carrots, and diced potatoes.
- Cook on low for 1 1/2 hours.
- Serve the stew with cornbread.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the chicken before adding it to the pot. You can substitute the ham hock with smoked bacon for a different taste, or omit it entirely for a lighter version. If you prefer a thicker stew, mash some of the potatoes before serving. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can also enhance the dish's aroma.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken stew hot, accompanied by a slice of cornbread for a comforting meal. A side salad or steamed greens can add freshness to the plate. This stew pairs beautifully with Easy Chicken 'N Rice Casserole for a delightful chicken-themed dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the stew on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Best Ever Chicken Stew contains roughly 1199 calories, with 46g protein, 230g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (239% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (209% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2947mg per serving (128% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of a whole chicken?
Yes, using chicken thighs is a great option. They add more flavor and tenderness to the stew. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may cook faster than a whole chicken.
Is there a way to make this stew vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms and eggplant, and use vegetable broth instead of water to maintain the depth of flavor. Skip the ham hock for a fully vegetarian version.
How can I make this stew spicier?
To add heat, consider including diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking. You can also serve the stew with hot sauce on the side for those who prefer to spice up their portion.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).