Mary'S Lima Bean And Chicken Stew
A hearty and comforting chicken and lima bean stew with rich flavors, perfect for family dinners and suitable for those who enjoy savory, filling dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large pot, add 3 quarts of water and bring to a boil.
- Add the roux to the boiling water and stir until dissolved.
- Put in the chicken thighs and chopped potatoes.
- Let cook on medium heat for 30 minutes.
- Add the frozen lima beans to the pot.
- Cover and simmer for an additional 1.5 hours.
- Serve the stew over rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the chicken thighs in a skillet before adding them to the pot. If you don't have roux, a mixture of flour and oil can serve as a substitute. You can also replace lima beans with other legumes like cannellini beans if desired. Adjust the seasoning as needed, especially if using canned beans that may contain salt.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stew hot over a bed of fluffy rice for a comforting meal. A side of crusty bread or a simple green salad pairs nicely, adding freshness to the dish. This stew is also excellent with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the stew on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much. It can also be reheated in the microwave, covered loosely to prevent splatters.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mary'S Lima Bean And Chicken Stew contains roughly 123 calories, with 6g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of protein (11% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (10% of the Daily Value), and potassium (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 642mg per serving (28% 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 types of chicken for this stew?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken breasts or even leftover rotisserie chicken. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as breasts may cook faster. If using leftover chicken, add it towards the end of cooking to heat through without drying it out.
What can I do if I want to make this stew vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken thighs with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or eggplant, and use vegetable broth instead of water. You can also add more beans or lentils for protein and texture, making it a filling and nutritious meal.
How can I thicken the stew if it's too watery?
If your stew turns out too thin, you can thicken it by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry and then stirring it into the stew. Let it simmer for a few more minutes until thickened. Alternatively, mash some of the potatoes in the stew for natural thickness.
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).