Granny Byrum'S Chicken Stew
A hearty and comforting chicken stew with simple ingredients, featuring tender chicken and a lightly thickened broth, perfect for family dinners and cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put the chicken in a large pot and pour in about 3 quarts of water. Cook for approximately 45 minutes until the chicken is done.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
- Mix the meal and flour in a large glass or bowl.
- Fill the glass with water and stir well to combine.
- Pour the mixture into the boiling chicken broth.
- Cook until the broth thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat, then add the cooked chicken back into the pot or pick the chicken off the bones and stir it into the stew.
- Serve hot, preferably with cornbread.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding aromatic vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery to the pot while boiling the chicken. If you don't have meal, cornstarch or arrowroot can be used as a thickening agent instead. Adjust the seasoning to your preference, and feel free to add herbs like thyme or bay leaves for added depth. This recipe can easily be adapted for different chicken recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty chicken stew hot, ideally accompanied by cornbread or crusty bread for dipping. A side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad can complement the dish nicely. This stew is also delicious when served over rice or noodles, providing a comforting and filling meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm the stew on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Granny Byrum'S Chicken Stew contains roughly 92 calories, with 2g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1988mg per serving (86% 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 boneless chicken breasts for this stew?
Yes, boneless chicken breasts can be used, but keep in mind they may not impart as much flavor to the broth. If using boneless cuts, consider adding a bit of chicken bouillon to enhance the flavor of the stew.
How can I make this stew thicker?
To thicken the stew, you can add more meal or use a cornstarch slurry. Mix equal parts cornstarch and cold water, then stir it into the simmering broth until it reaches your desired thickness. Remember to let it cook for a few minutes to remove any raw starch flavor.
Is it possible to freeze this chicken stew?
Yes, you can freeze the chicken stew for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container or freezer bags. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave. Note that the texture may change slightly after freezing, but the flavor will still be delicious.
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).