Imagine a steaming bowl of pure comfort that warms you from the inside out - that's exactly what Shauna's Chicken Rice Stew delivers! This hearty, soul-satisfying dish is more than just a meal; it's a culinary hug that combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and a medley of vegetables in a rich, flavorful broth. Whether you're battling a chilly evening or craving a home-cooked meal that feels like a warm embrace, this recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort food.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken thighs, diced
- 1 cup rice
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by dicing chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces, chopping onion finely, and slicing carrots into thin rounds.
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil and brown the diced chicken thighs until they develop a golden color, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Remove the browned chicken and set aside. In the same pot, sauté the chopped onions until they become translucent and slightly softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add sliced carrots to the pot and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Return the browned chicken to the pot and pour in the chicken broth. Sprinkle thyme, salt, and pepper over the mixture.
- Bring the stew to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Stir in the rice and continue cooking, covered, for an additional 15-20 minutes or until rice is tender and chicken is fully cooked.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If the stew seems too thick, add a bit more broth; if too thin, simmer uncovered to reduce.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
- Serve hot in deep bowls, ensuring each serving has a good mix of chicken, rice, and vegetables.
Tips
- • For extra flavor, consider browning the chicken thighs thoroughly - this creates a delicious base of flavor for the entire stew. • Use fresh thyme if possible, as it provides a more vibrant herb taste compared to dried herbs. • Don't rush the simmering process; low and slow cooking helps develop deeper, richer flavors. • Choose bone-in chicken thighs for even more richness, though boneless works perfectly too. • If the stew seems too thick, always have extra chicken broth on hand to adjust consistency. • Fresh parsley isn't just a garnish - it adds a bright, fresh note that lifts the entire dish. • Let the stew rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow flavors to settle and integrate.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 95mg
