Welcome to a culinary adventure that will warm your soul and tantalize your taste buds! Introducing "Stew Pendous Hearty Soups" – the ultimate comfort food that promises to fill your home with irresistible aromas and your belly with warmth. With just a handful of ingredients and a little bit of love, you can create a savory masterpiece that serves six and is perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends. Intrigued? Dive into this recipe and discover how to turn simple chicken, vegetables, and spices into a hearty stew that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 pound chicken thighs, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups mixed vegetables
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients and ensuring you have a clean workspace. This will help streamline the cooking process.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Allow the oil to warm for about 1 minute.
- Add 1 pound of diced chicken thighs to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is browned on all sides.
- Once the chicken is browned, add 1 chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves to the pot. Sauté for another 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. This will add flavor to your stew.
- Add 2 cups of mixed vegetables to the pot. You can use a frozen mix or fresh vegetables like carrots, peas, and corn. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried basil and stir to incorporate the herbs into the mixture.
- Bring the stew to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid.
- Let the stew simmer for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the chicken to become tender.
- After 1 hour, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Continue to simmer for an additional 30 minutes, uncovered, to thicken the stew slightly and enhance the flavors.
- Once the stew is ready, remove it from the heat and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This will help the flavors settle.
- Serve the stew hot in bowls, and enjoy with crusty bread or over rice for a hearty meal. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To make the cooking process smoother, chop your vegetables and dice the chicken ahead of time. This will save you valuable minutes when you’re ready to start cooking.
- Sear for Flavor: Don’t skip the browning step! Searing the chicken thighs adds a depth of flavor that will elevate your stew from good to great.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to get creative with the mixed vegetables! Add your favorites like bell peppers, zucchini, or even sweet potatoes for added nutrition and flavor.
- Low and Slow: Allow the stew to simmer gently on low heat. This slow cooking process helps the flavors meld beautifully, resulting in a rich and hearty dish.
- Taste and Adjust: Always taste your stew before serving. Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or even a splash of lemon juice for a bright finish.
- Serve with a Twist: For an extra touch, serve your stew with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream to enhance the flavors and presentation.
- Perfect Pairings: This stew pairs beautifully with crusty bread or over a bed of fluffy rice, making it a complete and satisfying meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 90mg
