Mathis' Family Chicken Stew
A hearty, comforting chicken stew with rich flavors from deboned chicken, milk, and spices, perfect for feeding a large family or gathering. Creamy and savory.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Begin with a 10 to 12 gallon black iron pot with lid.
- Add 1/2 gallon of water to the pot.
- Place cooked and deboned chicken plus broth into the pot.
- Heat to boiling.
- Remove heat from under the pot and let the mixture cool.
- Add butter, salt, black pepper, red pepper, and milk. Mix well.
- Prepare thickening by measuring 1 pint of flour and placing it in a quart jar.
- Add enough water to fill the jar.
- Attach the lid and shake vigorously until all flour is dissolved and there are no lumps.
- Add the thickening mixture to the cooled stew.
- Mix well and reheat the stew until it just begins to boil.
- Remove from heat and enjoy.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using homemade broth instead of water. If you're short on time, store-bought rotisserie chicken can be a great substitute for the stewed chicken. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper. Remember to taste and adjust seasoning before serving to ensure a well-balanced flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken stew hot, garnished with fresh herbs for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For a delightful finish, consider serving it alongside a refreshing Strawberry Pineapple Cooler to balance the richness of the stew.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If it thickens too much, add a splash of milk or water to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mathis' Family Chicken Stew contains roughly 1008 calories, with 22g protein, 139g carbohydrates, and 57g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (183% of the Daily Value), iron (112% of the Daily Value), and calcium (71% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1921mg per serving (84% 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 other types of meat in this stew?
Yes, you can substitute other meats like turkey or even a mix of beef and chicken, but the cooking times may vary. Just ensure the meat is cooked through before adding the thickening mixture.
Is it possible to make this stew vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms and carrots, and use vegetable broth instead of water. Adjust seasonings to enhance the flavors, making it a delicious vegetarian option.
How can I thicken the stew without flour?
If you prefer a gluten-free option, consider using cornstarch or arrowroot powder mixed with cold water as a thickening agent. Add it gradually to the stew, stirring constantly until you reach your desired 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).