Hearty Chicken Stew for Busy Nights

Hearty Chicken Stew for Busy Nights

When life gets hectic and time is of the essence, a comforting meal that can be prepared quickly and with minimal fuss becomes a lifesaver. Our Hearty Chicken Stew is the perfect answer to those busy nights. Packed with flavor and nutrition, this stew is as satisfying to eat as it is simple to make.

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 3 medium carrots, sliced
• 3 stalks of celery, sliced
• 4 cups of chicken broth
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup of frozen peas
• 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Cooking Method

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and sauté until browned on all sides. Remove from the pot and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add the onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the carrots and celery to the pot, cooking for another 5 minutes until they start to soften.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the potatoes, thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
5. Return the chicken to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
6. Stir in the frozen peas and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
7. Remove the bay leaf and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving, if desired.

Nutritional Value and Pairings

This Hearty Chicken Stew is not only a delight to the taste buds but also a nourishing meal packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. The chicken provides a lean protein source, while the medley of vegetables contributes a wealth of nutrients, including vitamin A from carrots and vitamin C from potatoes. This stew is also relatively low in fat, especially if you opt for skinless chicken thighs.

For an ideal meal experience, pair the stew with a rustic whole-grain bread or a simple salad, such as a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette. For drinks, consider serving a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the subtle herbal notes of the stew, or a refreshing iced tea for a non-alcoholic option.

Prepare to enjoy a comforting and nutritious dinner that fits seamlessly into your busy schedule, leaving both your body and your soul warmly satisfied.