There’s something truly magical about a bowl of hearty chicken stew—warm, comforting, and full of flavor. Whether you’re curled up on a chilly evening or cooking for a busy weeknight, hearty chicken stew recipes are the ultimate way to nourish both your body and soul. They’re easy to make, full of nutritious ingredients, and can be customized to suit any taste.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through some delicious options, from slow-cooked hearty chicken stew crock pot recipes to quick and simple chicken stew recipe easy ideas that even beginners can master. Ready to fill your kitchen with comforting aromas? Let’s dive in and start cooking up some warmth!
Why Chicken Stew is the Ultimate Comfort Food
There’s just something about a warm bowl of hearty chicken stew that makes everything feel right in the world. It’s like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket on a cold day—comforting, satisfying, and just what you need to feel at home. Chicken stew is the ultimate comfort food because it’s so filling and nourishing, packed with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and rich flavors. It’s the kind of meal that hugs you from the inside, making every bite a little moment of happiness.
What makes chicken stew even better is how versatile it is. Whether you prefer a hearty chicken stew crock pot recipe that you can set and forget or a quick chicken stew recipe easy for busy evenings, it’s always a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in lots of healthy veggies and protein, so you feel good while indulging. Whether you’re cooking for your family, a gathering, or just yourself, chicken stew is a recipe that’s meant to be shared, enjoyed, and savored.
Types of Hearty Chicken Stew Recipes You’ll Love
One of the best things about hearty chicken stew recipes is how many ways you can make them. Whether you’re a fan of slow cooking or prefer something quick and easy, there’s a recipe for every taste and lifestyle. Let’s dive into some of my favorites, each with its own comforting twist.
Hearty Chicken Stew Crock Pot Recipes
The crock pot is a lifesaver when it comes to making chicken stew. Imagine tossing everything in, setting it, and letting the magic happen. With minimal effort, you get tender chicken, rich broth, and perfectly cooked veggies. One of my go-to recipes is the “Classic Crock Pot Chicken Stew with Carrots and Potatoes.” It’s the kind of meal that fills your home with the most mouthwatering smells, and you barely have to lift a finger. You just set it, forget it, and enjoy the deliciousness later.
Chicken Stew Recipe Easy
Not every day calls for hours of cooking, and sometimes, you just need something simple. If you’re in a rush but still craving that cozy comfort, an easy chicken stew recipe is your best friend. For example, a “Quick and Easy Chicken Stew with Root Vegetables” comes together in no time and still packs all the flavor you love. This recipe is great for beginners too, with minimal prep work and a short cooking time, making it a perfect choice for a busy weeknight.
Old Fashioned Chicken Stew Recipe
There’s something special about a recipe that’s been passed down through generations. An old fashioned chicken stew recipe has a certain warmth to it that feels like home. “Grandma’s Hearty Old Fashioned Chicken Stew with Herbs” is full of timeless flavors, using simple ingredients like fresh herbs and root vegetables to create a nourishing, soulful dish. It’s the kind of recipe that you’ll find yourself returning to time and again, feeling the connection to your family’s kitchen with every bite.
Slow Cooker Stew Chicken Recipes
For anyone who loves the hands-off approach, slow cooker stew chicken recipes are a dream. They allow you to throw everything in, leave it to cook on low, and come back to a rich, flavorful stew. One of my favorites is the “Slow Cooker Chicken Stew with Sweet Potatoes and Green Beans.” It’s got the perfect balance of sweet and savory, and the slow cooking process really brings out the depth of flavors. Plus, the sweet potatoes add a nice twist that takes it to the next level.
Easy Brown Stew Chicken Recipe
If you’re craving a hearty, rich flavor with a bit of a smoky kick, easy brown stew chicken recipe is for you. This dish, “Easy Brown Stew Chicken with a Smoky Twist,” combines the richness of chicken with the depth of smoky seasonings. It’s perfect for meal prepping too, as the flavors deepen the longer it sits. Whether served with rice or bread, this recipe guarantees a comforting, filling meal that you’ll be excited to dig into.
Ingredients You’ll Need for a Hearty Chicken Stew
When making a hearty chicken stew, the ingredients you choose will make or break the dish. But don’t worry, you don’t need anything fancy. A handful of everyday ingredients are all you need to create a comforting, flavorful stew. Let’s break it down, step by step.
Basic Ingredients for All Chicken Stews
Every hearty chicken stew recipe has a few staple ingredients that work wonders. These are your foundation. Here’s what you need:
- Chicken: Whether you go for boneless, skinless thighs or bone-in pieces, chicken is the heart of the stew. Thighs are especially great for tenderness, while bone-in chicken gives a richer flavor.
- Vegetables: Carrots, celery, and onions are the go-to trio. They provide a sweet, savory base for your stew.
- Stock: Chicken or vegetable stock is essential for the broth, giving your stew that rich, savory depth.
- Herbs and Spices: Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves add fragrance. Garlic, salt, and pepper are must-haves to season it perfectly.
These basic ingredients are key to making your stew hearty, satisfying, and comforting. They’ll deliver that familiar, cozy flavor we all crave.
Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor
Want to take your stew to the next level? Here are a few optional ingredients that can add complexity and richness to the dish:
- Sweet Potatoes: Add them for a touch of sweetness and a thicker texture.
- Potatoes: If you want to make it even heartier, potatoes are a great choice. They absorb all the flavors in the stew and become super tender.
- Peas or Corn: Both vegetables are great for added color and nutrition, plus they introduce a little sweetness that complements the savory chicken.
- Garlic: I’m a huge fan of garlic in my stews. It deepens the flavor and gives it that aromatic touch.
These optional ingredients allow you to experiment and make the stew your own. Add whatever you have on hand—it’s all about what you enjoy and what fits your taste.
Choosing the Right Chicken
When it comes to chicken, you’ve got options. Here’s a quick rundown:
- Boneless, Skinless Thighs: These are great for quick cooking and incredibly tender. They soak up the flavors of the stew and make the dish nice and juicy.
- Bone-In Chicken: For a deeper, richer flavor, you can opt for bone-in chicken. The bones help infuse the broth with extra richness, making your stew even more flavorful.
Both types of chicken work perfectly for hearty chicken stew crock pot recipes or slow cooker stew chicken recipes. The choice depends on the amount of time you have and the level of richness you want.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make a Hearty Chicken Stew
Making a hearty chicken stew is like creating a cozy hug in a bowl. I love how simple the process is, yet the end result is so comforting and full of flavor. Whether you’re following a hearty chicken stew crock pot recipe or a quicker chicken stew recipe easy, the steps are straightforward, and the rewards are totally worth it. Let’s walk through it step by step!
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Before you even start cooking, take a moment to get everything prepped. It really makes the whole process smoother. You’ll want to chop your vegetables—carrots, celery, onions—and any other additions you like, such as sweet potatoes or garlic. If you’re using bone-in chicken, make sure it’s cut into smaller pieces for easier cooking. I find that having everything ready to go means I’m not scrambling around while the stew’s cooking.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken (If You Want Extra Flavor)
This is one of my favorite parts of the process, even though it’s totally optional. Browning the chicken before adding it to the pot makes a huge difference. It locks in the flavor and adds a richness to the stew. I personally love using boneless, skinless thighs for this step because they brown beautifully and get tender during cooking. Just heat up some oil in a pan, season the chicken with salt and pepper, and cook it until it’s golden on all sides. Trust me, your stew will thank you for this extra step!
Step 3: Throw It All Into the Crock Pot or Slow Cooker
Now for the magic. Whether you’re following a slow cooker stew chicken recipe or using the crock pot, this is where things get easy. Toss your browned chicken (or uncooked if you skipped the browning step) into the pot. Add in your vegetables, stock, and any herbs you want to use—thyme, rosemary, bay leaves. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even throw in a little paprika or curry powder for a twist.
If you’re making a hearty chicken stew crock pot recipe, set the temperature to low and forget about it for the next 6-8 hours. If you’re using a slow cooker, set it to low and let it work its magic. I love how the slow cooker stew chicken recipes make my house smell like heaven all day long.
Step 4: Let It Simmer to Perfection
This is the step where all the flavors really come together. Whether you’re making an old fashioned chicken stew recipe or trying something new, the simmering time is crucial. Let the stew cook long enough for the chicken to break down and get super tender, and for the veggies to soften and release all their flavors into the broth.
If you’re in a rush and using a stovetop, it can cook in about an hour, but the longer you let it simmer, the richer the flavors will get. If you’re using a crock pot, you can just let it go for 6-8 hours and enjoy the wonderful results.
Step 5: Taste and Adjust
This is my favorite part of cooking any stew—tasting and adjusting the seasonings. I always give my stew a little taste towards the end and add more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed. If you want a thicker stew, you can mash some of the vegetables directly in the pot, or add a slurry of flour and water to thicken it. Just be sure to stir it well to avoid lumps!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once everything’s cooked and you’ve made sure the flavors are spot-on, it’s time to serve. I usually serve mine with some crusty bread on the side or a scoop of mashed potatoes for an extra comforting touch. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle a little fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
There you have it—hearty chicken stew recipes made easy! No matter which version you make, whether it’s a chicken stew recipe easy for busy weeknights or an old-fashioned chicken stew recipe passed down through generations, you can’t go wrong. The process is simple, the ingredients are flexible, and the end result is always a comforting bowl of goodness.
Pro Tips for Making the Best Hearty Chicken Stew
Making a delicious hearty chicken stew recipe might seem simple, but a few key tips can take your stew from good to amazing. I’ve learned these tricks the hard way—through trial, error, and lots of tasting. Let me share them with you so you can make the perfect chicken stew every time.
1. Don’t Rush the Browning Process
I know, it’s tempting to just toss everything into the pot and call it a day. But trust me, taking the time to properly brown the chicken before adding it to your hearty chicken stew crock pot recipes or slow cooker stew chicken recipes makes a world of difference. The caramelization from browning the chicken adds a deep, rich flavor that infuses the whole stew. Even if you’re short on time, don’t skip this step—it’s worth the extra few minutes!
2. Layer Your Flavors with Seasoning
Here’s a little secret: seasoning is an art. You can’t just toss in some salt and pepper and hope for the best. For chicken stew recipe easy or any old fashioned chicken stew recipe, the trick is layering your flavors. Start by seasoning the chicken before cooking it. Then, as the stew simmers, add herbs like thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves. Add a little garlic to the base, and season gradually as the stew cooks. Taste along the way to adjust for perfect seasoning. A good stew should have depth, so take your time to build that flavor!
3. Use the Right Amount of Liquid
If you’re following a slow cooker stew chicken recipe, one of the easiest mistakes is adding too much liquid. You want a thick, hearty stew, not a watery soup. Keep in mind that your vegetables will release moisture as they cook, and chicken tends to give off some too. So, it’s best to start with less liquid and adjust as needed. You can always add more if the stew gets too thick, but it’s harder to fix if it’s too thin. Keep the balance just right, and you’ll have a perfect consistency.
4. Thicken the Stew Without Losing the Flavor
Sometimes, you want your stew a bit thicker, right? I get it! There are a few tricks for this. One of my favorites is making a slurry—mix a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch with a little water and stir it into the stew. Let it simmer for a bit, and watch as it thickens up. If you’re aiming for an even heartier dish, add some mashed potatoes directly into the stew (my mom does this for her easy brown stew chicken recipe—it’s so comforting!).
5. Don’t Forget the Vegetables
Now, I know chicken is the star of the show, but veggies are what make your hearty chicken stew recipe so special. Adding vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and sweet potatoes gives the stew that nice balance of savory and sweet. And, I love throwing in some kale or spinach towards the end for a pop of color and nutrition. It’s all about making the stew your own, so don’t shy away from experimenting with different vegetables and herbs!
6. Slow Cooking Magic
Whether you’re using a crock pot or a slow cooker, the beauty of these slow cooker stew chicken recipes is that the longer you let everything cook, the more the flavors meld together. But, there’s a sweet spot for timing. Letting it cook on low for about 6-8 hours lets the chicken become so tender it practically falls apart. Just be careful not to overcook it! If you’re in a rush, you can make a chicken stew recipe easy on the stovetop, but I promise—there’s something magical about that slow-simmered flavor.
7. Add a Little Creaminess at the End
If you want to make your stew extra rich and velvety, consider adding a splash of cream or coconut milk right before serving. It adds a luxurious texture without overwhelming the flavors. This works wonders, especially if you’ve made an old fashioned chicken stew recipe and want to elevate it a bit. You can also swirl in some sour cream for a tangy twist—trust me, it takes your stew to the next level.
8. Taste and Adjust
This one’s simple, but it’s a game-changer. Always, always taste your stew towards the end of cooking. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve added a little extra salt, pepper, or herbs just before serving and it made all the difference. Sometimes the stew needs a bit more seasoning to really pop—don’t skip this step!
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Chicken Stew
Making chicken stew seems simple enough, right? Throw a few ingredients together and let it simmer. But, trust me, there are a few missteps you’ll want to watch out for if you want your hearty chicken stew recipes to turn out perfectly. Let me share some lessons I’ve learned (the hard way sometimes!) to help you avoid them.
1. Overcrowding the Crock Pot
I get it. You want to add everything you have on hand, but here’s the thing—too many ingredients in your crock pot or slow cooker can leave your stew unevenly cooked. If there’s not enough space for everything to simmer properly, your stew might end up more watery than hearty. Stick to the essentials, and if you’re using hearty chicken stew crock pot recipes, keep it simple. Trust me, less is more when it comes to slow cooking.
2. Not Letting It Simmer Long Enough
This one’s a biggie. It’s easy to rush things, but chicken stew needs time to develop those deep, comforting flavors. If you’re in a rush, you might be tempted to skip the simmering step or cook it too fast. I’ve been there, and it’s always a disappointment when you don’t give your stew the time it needs to really come together. Whether you’re making a slow cooker stew chicken recipe or a chicken stew recipe easy, the secret is letting it cook low and slow. If you’re using a crock pot, 6–8 hours will do the trick. Patience is key here!
3. Adding Dairy Too Early
I learned this the hard way—adding milk or cream too early can ruin the texture of your stew. You don’t want curdled dairy swimming in your hearty chicken stew! Wait until the end of cooking to add that splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream. It’ll melt in beautifully, making your stew rich and velvety without any of that undesirable separation.
4. Using Too Much Liquid
This is one of the most common mistakes I see when people make slow cooker stew chicken recipes. It’s tempting to pour in tons of stock or water, but remember—your chicken and veggies will release some liquid as they cook. The key to a perfect stew is balance. If you start with too much liquid, you’ll end up with a soup instead of the hearty chicken stew you’re craving. Add just enough liquid to cover the ingredients, and adjust as needed later.
5. Forgetting to Taste and Adjust Seasoning
Okay, this one is a total game-changer. You know how everyone says, “Taste as you go!”? That advice is spot on when it comes to making chicken stew recipes easy or any other type of chicken stew. It’s easy to get carried away, but always taste your stew before serving. Sometimes, just a pinch more salt or a dash of pepper can elevate the flavors to perfection. Don’t skip this crucial step!
6. Skipping the Browning Step
Not everyone has the time to brown chicken before tossing it into the slow cooker, but trust me—if you’re making an old fashioned chicken stew recipe or any of those hearty chicken stew crock pot recipes, this step is a must. It’s all about deepening the flavors. When you brown the chicken first, it adds a rich, caramelized taste that takes your stew to the next level. Plus, it seals in the moisture, so you get tender, juicy chicken every time.
7. Overcooking the Vegetables
This one’s subtle but important. Overcooking your veggies can result in mushy, unappealing chunks that detract from your stew. Keep an eye on your cooking time—especially if you’re working with delicate vegetables like peas or leafy greens. If you want to add spinach or kale to your hearty chicken stew recipes, wait until the stew is nearly done before tossing them in. This keeps them vibrant and adds a nice contrast to the tender chicken and potatoes.
Variations and Customizations: Make Your Hearty Chicken Stew Recipe Your Own
One of the things I absolutely love about hearty chicken stew recipes is how versatile they are. You can make them fit your mood, the season, or even whatever ingredients you’ve got lying around in your kitchen. Over the years, I’ve discovered that there’s no “wrong way” to make a chicken stew—just a million ways to make it yours.
If you’re like me and love to experiment with flavors, customizing your hearty chicken stew crock pot recipes or any other version can really elevate the dish. Let me share some variations and tips that have worked wonders for me—and you can adjust them to fit your own taste.
Add Extra Vegetables for More Flavor
I’m always looking for ways to sneak in extra veggies, especially if I’m cooking for picky eaters. Try adding a handful of spinach, kale, or even a little corn for some color and nutrition. I love how kale holds its texture in the stew without getting mushy, and the sweetness of corn pairs perfectly with the savory chicken. And hey, it’s a sneaky way to boost the health factor of your chicken stew recipe easy without anyone noticing!
Spice It Up (If You Dare)
You know how a little dash of heat can totally change the vibe of a dish? Well, the same goes for hearty chicken stew recipes. If you’re in the mood for something with a little more kick, throw in a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes. It doesn’t need to be overpowering—just enough to warm you up from the inside. I’ve even added a touch of paprika to give the stew a deeper, smokier flavor, and it totally changes the game.
Go for a Creamy Twist
Okay, I’ll admit it—sometimes I just crave that extra level of creaminess. If you’re making an old fashioned chicken stew recipe, adding a swirl of heavy cream at the end can give it this rich, velvety texture that’s just irresistible. For a lighter option, you could use coconut milk for a little tropical twist. It adds a whole new layer of flavor, and the best part? It makes the stew feel even more comforting.
Try a New Protein
While chicken is the classic choice, don’t be afraid to switch things up. If you’re craving something a little different, try swapping the chicken for turkey or even some sausage. I’ve made slow cooker stew chicken recipes using smoked sausage, and the smoky, savory flavor it brings to the stew is out of this world. It’s a little outside the box but still super cozy.
Make It Heartier with Starches
Want your stew to be extra filling? Add some extra starch! Sweet potatoes are a classic addition and they bring a subtle sweetness that balances out the savory broth. For even more heartiness, you could toss in some potatoes (I love using Yukon Golds for their buttery texture). And don’t forget about rice or barley—either can be added directly into the stew or served alongside for a complete meal.
Go Global: International Flavors
Feel like traveling the world without leaving your kitchen? Sometimes, I like to take my easy brown stew chicken recipe in a completely different direction. For instance, I’ve made a Caribbean-inspired version by adding a touch of allspice, thyme, and Scotch bonnet peppers for a lively, flavorful stew. You can also introduce curry powder for a mild, aromatic flavor that adds warmth without being too spicy. It’s like giving your hearty chicken stew crock pot recipes a passport to flavor town.
Make It Your Own: The Beauty of Customization
What I love about hearty chicken stew recipes is that there’s no one-size-fits-all. You can really make it your own by tweaking ingredients based on what you have or what you’re in the mood for. Whether you go with a slow cooker stew chicken recipe that’s packed with veggies or a chicken stew recipe easy that’s cozy and quick, the possibilities are endless.
Remember, cooking is all about making something that’s enjoyable for you and your family. So, don’t be afraid to experiment with these variations and make each bowl of stew something special. Who knows, you might just discover your new favorite twist on an old classic.
How to Store and Reheat Your Hearty Chicken Stew
So, you’ve made a big batch of your favorite hearty chicken stew, and now you’re wondering how to store it and reheat it without losing all that cozy goodness. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Storing and reheating hearty chicken stew recipes is super easy and ensures that every leftover bite tastes just as comforting as when it was first served. Here’s how you can do it:
Storing Your Hearty Chicken Stew
The best part about hearty chicken stew is that it’s perfect for meal prep and leftovers. You can store it in the fridge or freezer, and it actually tastes better the next day as the flavors have had time to meld together. Here’s what you need to know:
- Fridge Storage:
Once your stew has cooled down to room temperature (you don’t want to store it hot), transfer it into an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for about 3-4 days. That’s plenty of time for you to enjoy it for dinner a few times or have it as a comforting lunch throughout the week. - Freezer Storage:
If you’ve made a large batch or just want to save some for later, hearty chicken stew freezes beautifully. Pour it into a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. If you’re using a bag, make sure to flatten it out before freezing to save space. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just pull it out and reheat.
Reheating Your Hearty Chicken Stew
No one wants their stew to lose its flavor or texture when reheated, so here’s how to warm it back up to perfection:
- On the Stove:
This is my go-to method because it brings back that fresh, just-cooked feel. Just add your leftover stew to a pot over low to medium heat. Stir it occasionally to make sure it heats evenly. If you feel like the stew has thickened up too much in the fridge, add a little extra broth or water to bring it back to the perfect consistency. - In the Microwave:
If you’re in a rush, the microwave works just fine! Place your stew in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap (leave a small gap for steam). Heat it in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring in between, until it’s nice and hot. Again, feel free to add a splash of broth if you want it a little thinner. - In the Slow Cooker (for a cozy touch):
If you’re craving that slow-simmered flavor, throw your leftover stew into the slow cooker or crock pot. Heat it on low for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally. This method is perfect if you’re reheating a large batch and want it to feel like it’s fresh out of the kitchen.
A Few Quick Tips:
- Add Freshness: If you have some leftover herbs or fresh veggies, tossing them in when reheating can bring back some of that “just made” flavor.
- Don’t Overheat: Overheating can make the stew lose its richness and make the chicken tough. Just heat it until it’s nice and hot, and you’re good to go!
With these tips, you’ll be able to enjoy your hearty chicken stew crock pot recipes, old fashioned chicken stew recipes, or any other variation you make just as much the second time around.
So, go ahead and store your leftovers with confidence—you’ve got this! And when it’s time to reheat, you’ll be savoring that warm, comforting bowl of stew as if it was freshly made.
Conclusion: A Hearty Chicken Stew Recipe for Every Season and Taste
At the end of the day, nothing beats a bowl of hearty chicken stew—whether you’re curled up on the couch, serving it up for a family dinner, or prepping ahead for a busy week. These stews are more than just food; they’re a warm hug in a bowl. From hearty chicken stew crock pot recipes to easy brown stew chicken recipes, there’s a comforting version for everyone.
Chicken stew brings people together. The smell of it simmering on the stove or slow cooking in the crock pot fills the house with warmth, making even the busiest days feel special. And whether you opt for an old fashioned chicken stew recipe passed down through generations or a quick chicken stew recipe easy enough for a weeknight, you’ll always end up with something that’s satisfying, delicious, and deeply nourishing.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavors! Maybe you’ll discover a new twist to your favorite hearty chicken stew recipe that becomes a family tradition. Whether you’re a pro in the kitchen or a beginner, these recipes are simple, adaptable, and designed to make your cooking experience both fun and rewarding.
So, what’s your go-to chicken stew recipe? I’d love to hear about any variations you’ve tried or if you have any secret tips for making the perfect stew. Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s keep this delicious conversation going!
FAQ Section: All Your Chicken Stew Questions Answered!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs for Stew?
Absolutely! While boneless, skinless thighs are my personal favorite for hearty chicken stew recipes because they’re super tender and flavorful, chicken breasts can work too. They might not be as juicy, but if you prefer them, just be careful not to overcook them, or they might dry out. If you’re making easy brown stew chicken recipes, chicken breasts can still provide that hearty, comforting vibe, but the thighs do give you a richer stew. It’s all about what works best for you!
How Do I Make My Chicken Stew More Flavorful?
Oh, I’ve got some secrets for you! The key to a flavorful chicken stew recipe easy or old fashioned chicken stew recipe is layering the flavors. Start by seasoning your chicken early on, and don’t forget about those herbs—thyme, bay leaves, rosemary—they really shine when simmered. Adding garlic, a little splash of white wine, or even a pinch of paprika can really boost the depth. If you’re using a hearty chicken stew crock pot recipe, be sure to season as you go and taste test at the end. A little tweak here and there can make a big difference!
Can I Make Chicken Stew Ahead of Time?
Yes! In fact, chicken stew often tastes even better the next day once all the flavors have had time to meld together. Whether you’re making a slow cooker stew chicken recipe or a stovetop version, you can prepare it the day before, store it in the fridge, and reheat it when you’re ready to eat. It’s the perfect make-ahead meal for busy days. Plus, the longer it sits, the richer the flavors become, so it’s a win-win!
What Are the Best Side Dishes to Serve with Chicken Stew?
There are so many options here, but my top picks are always a nice, crusty bread to soak up that delicious broth or a scoop of mashed potatoes for extra comfort. If you’re looking to keep things light, a simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances out the heartiness of the stew. I also love serving a side of steamed green beans or roasted veggies—adds color and a nice crunch to your comforting meal. Whatever you choose, just make sure it complements the rich flavors of your hearty chicken stew crock pot recipes or slow cooker stew chicken recipes!
