Cozy nights call for comforting, warming meals that fill our bellies and lift our spirits. And what better way to do just that than with a delicious, slow-cooked chicken stew? As the temperatures drop and the days grow shorter, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a warm bowl of steaming goodness on a chilly evening.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouthwatering chicken stew recipes from around the world, each one a perfect blend of flavors, textures, and aromas to satisfy your cravings. From classic combinations to international twists, these hearty stews are sure to become new favorites in your kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, we’ve got you covered.
So grab a spoon, get cozy, and let’s dive into the world of chicken stew!
Classic Chicken and Vegetable Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect comfort food dish, packed with juicy chicken, tender vegetables, and aromatic herbs. It’s an easy and satisfying meal for any day of the week.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 large potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tbsp of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion, carrots, potato, celery, and garlic to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Return the cooked chicken to the pot and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the stew has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: About 30-40 minutes
Creamy Coconut Chicken Stew
A rich and comforting stew that combines the flavors of coconut milk, tender chicken, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Pour in coconut milk and chicken broth; bring to a simmer.
7. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Mexican Chicken Stew
This hearty stew combines the bold flavors of Mexico with a spicy kick, making it perfect for a cozy night in. With tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a rich tomato-based broth, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the pot and set aside.
3. Add the onions, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, black beans, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Return the chicken to the pot and season with salt and pepper.
6. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Herbed Lemon Chicken Stew
Brighten up a chilly evening with this zesty and aromatic stew, featuring tender chicken, fresh herbs, and a hint of lemon zest. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy dinner party or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– 1 lemon, zested and juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic, rosemary, thyme, and lemon zest; cook for 1 minute.
3. Add chicken, onion, carrots, potatoes, salt, and pepper. Cook until chicken is browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Pour in broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges and fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Slow Cooker Chicken and Potato Stew
A hearty and comforting slow cooker recipe that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This stew is filled with tender chicken, creamy potatoes, and flavorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken, potatoes, onion, garlic, and bell pepper in the slow cooker.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
3. Add the chicken broth to the slow cooker.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Moroccan-Inspired Chicken Stew with Chickpeas
Warm up to the aromatic flavors of Morocco with this hearty and comforting stew, featuring tender chicken, creamy chickpeas, and a blend of exotic spices. Perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium, add onions and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add diced tomatoes, chickpeas, browned chicken, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve hot over couscous or with crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Smoky Chipotle Chicken Stew
This hearty stew combines smoky chipotle peppers with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices to create a bold and flavorful dish perfect for a cozy evening in. With minimal prep time and a one-pot cooking method, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken; cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add onion, garlic, bell pepper, chipotle peppers, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Thai Red Curry Chicken Stew
Thai Red Curry Chicken Stew: A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the bold flavors of Thai red curry paste with succulent chicken, tender vegetables, and creamy coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, potatoes)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and ginger; cook until fragrant, 1 minute.
3. Add chicken; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in curry paste; cook for 1 minute.
5. Add coconut milk, mixed vegetables, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low; let stew cook, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Butter Chicken Stew
Rich and savory, this garlic butter chicken stew is a hearty comfort food that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a family dinner. With tender chicken, aromatic garlic, and creamy butter, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add garlic, onion, carrots, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Stir in heavy cream; season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Rustic Italian Chicken Stew with Tomatoes
Warm up with this hearty and flavorful stew that’s perfect for a cozy night in. This rustic Italian chicken stew combines tender chicken, rich tomatoes, and aromatic herbs to create a comforting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chicken, tomatoes, vegetable broth, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
African Peanut Chicken Stew
This hearty stew combines the rich flavors of peanuts, chicken, and spices to create a deliciously comforting dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons peanut oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup peanuts
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup peanut butter
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
2. Add onion and garlic to pot; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Stir in peanuts, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add peanut butter, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and browned chicken back to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
White Wine Braised Chicken Stew
A rich and flavorful stew that’s perfect for a chilly evening, this White Wine Braised Chicken Stew is made with tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a hint of white wine.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 large celery stalk, sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup white wine (dry)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the carrots, celery, and onion to the pot; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8-10 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, white wine, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return the chicken to the pot and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and braise for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is tender and falls apart easily.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
French Onion Chicken Stew
Savor the rich flavors of caramelized onions and tender chicken in this hearty stew, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chicken in butter over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they caramelize and turn golden brown, about 20-25 minutes.
3. Add garlic, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
4. Pour in chicken broth and red wine (if using); bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 10-15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Jamaican Jerk Chicken Stew
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica with this aromatic chicken stew, infused with the warmth of allspice and thyme. This hearty dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, chopped (optional)
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp ground allspice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, Scotch bonnet pepper (if using), jerk seasoning, and chicken. Cook, stirring occasionally, until chicken is browned, about 7-8 minutes.
3. Pour in coconut milk, chicken broth, and allspice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
5. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mediterranean Olive and Lemon Chicken Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines the bright citrus of lemon with the savory richness of olives, perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe is quick to prepare and packed with protein and nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed olives (Kalamata, green, and black), pitted
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add chicken, olives, lemon juice, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until chicken is browned on all sides.
4. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
BBQ Chicken and Corn Stew
This hearty stew combines tender chicken, sweet corn, and smoky BBQ flavors for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup barbecue sauce
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook chicken over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in barbecue sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Return chicken to the pot; add corn kernels and diced tomatoes.
6. Transfer pot to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Hungarian Paprika Chicken Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This classic Hungarian dish is made with tender chicken, rich paprika sauce, and a hint of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 teaspoons sweet paprika
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in paprika, caraway seeds, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Indian Spiced Chicken Stew with Yogurt
This flavorful stew is a perfect blend of spices, tender chicken, and creamy yogurt. Serve it with some naan or basmati rice for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup plain yogurt
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and cook until browned.
2. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
4. Add diced tomatoes and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Stir in yogurt and season with salt. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Autumn Harvest Chicken Stew with Squash
As the seasons change, warm up with this hearty and comforting stew that celebrates the flavors of autumn. This recipe combines tender chicken, roasted squash, and aromatic spices for a cozy and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the chicken thighs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Add the cubed squash, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
7. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
8. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
9. Cook for 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the squash is tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Five-Spice Asian Chicken Stew
A flavorful and aromatic stew that combines the warmth of five-spice powder with the comfort of chicken, vegetables, and noodles. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon five-spice powder
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– 1/2 cup cooked noodles (such as rice noodles or udon)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add garlic, ginger, and five-spice powder; cook for 1 minute.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add mixed vegetables, noodles, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Cozy up to a warm and satisfying meal with these 20 hearty chicken stew recipes! From classic comfort food to international twists, this collection has something for everyone. Recipes include creamy coconut, spicy Mexican, herby lemon, slow cooker potato, and many more. Whether you’re in the mood for smoky chipotle or rustic Italian, there’s a stew here that’s sure to hit the spot.
