Mary'S Chicken Stew
Mary's Chicken Stew is a hearty, comforting dish featuring tender chicken, smoky bacon, and a medley of vegetables simmered in flavorful chicken broth. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, it offers rich flavors and a satisfying meal with rustic charm.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dredge the chicken pieces in seasoned flour.
- Fry the bacon slices in a large skillet until crispy, then remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, brown the chicken pieces.
- Transfer the browned chicken to a large casserole or Dutch oven.
- Add the small onions, quartered carrots, sliced turnip, and peeled small potatoes to the casserole.
- Pour the chicken broth over the vegetables and chicken.
- Sprinkle with sage and crumbled bacon.
- Cover and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour or until the chicken and vegetables are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in buttermilk before dredging it in flour. If you're short on time, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of frying raw pieces. For a healthier option, substitute turkey bacon for the regular bacon. This recipe can also be adapted to include seasonal vegetables, making it versatile for year-round cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mary’s Chicken Stew with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal. A simple side salad or steamed green beans can complement this dish nicely. For a comforting twist, pair it with a side of mashed potatoes or browse more American recipes to create a full dinner spread.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chicken stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to reach the desired consistency. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mary'S Chicken Stew contains roughly 1850 calories, with 32g protein, 258g carbohydrates, and 78g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (152% of the Daily Value), potassium (106% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (100% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2022mg per serving (88% 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 different vegetables in this stew?
Absolutely! You can customize the vegetables based on your preference or what's in season. Zucchini, bell peppers, or peas can be great additions. Just be mindful of cooking times, as softer vegetables may require less time to cook.
What can I do if the stew is too thick?
If your stew turns out too thick, simply stir in a little extra chicken broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. You can also add more vegetables to absorb and balance out the thickness.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to be safe to eat. Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the chicken pieces. Additionally, the meat should be tender and easily pulled apart with a fork.
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).