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Healthy Chicken Stew

Section: Comforting Soups and Hearty Stews

This healthy chicken stew is packed with lean protein, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs. Each step—from browning the chicken to simmering the vegetables—builds rich, comforting flavors. With ingredients like carrots, celery, potatoes, and thyme, this dish not only satisfies your hunger but also provides valuable nutrients. Whether served with bread, rice, or pasta, it's a wholesome meal that's perfect for cozy family dinners or chilly evenings. The use of fresh produce and low-sodium broth makes it a nourishing option that doesn’t compromise on taste.

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Published By Ioana
Updated on Thu, 17 Jul 2025 14:27:19 GMT
A bowl of chicken goulash with vegetables. Bookmark
A bowl of chicken goulash with vegetables. | ioanacooks.com

This healthy chicken stew is one of my go-to recipes when I want something hearty and nutritious. It captures the cozy comfort of a traditional stew while keeping things light. Every bite is filled with warm flavors that make me feel like I’m wrapped in a soft blanket on a cold evening.

I first made this on a rainy weekend and was amazed by how nourishing and comforting it turned out. Since then it has become a regular request at my dinner table.

Ingredients

  • Chicken breast 500g: Lean protein source that keeps the stew light and satisfying
  • Carrots 2 sliced: Adds natural sweetness and bright color
  • Celery 2 stalks diced: Brings freshness and light crunch to each bite
  • Potatoes 3 diced: Makes the stew filling and comforting
  • Onion 1 chopped: Builds a flavorful base when sautéed
  • Garlic 2 cloves minced: Adds bold flavor and a savory touch
  • Low Sodium Chicken Broth 1 liter: Creates a lighter more heart-friendly broth
  • Thyme 1 teaspoon: Infuses the dish with herby depth and freshness
  • Bay leaves 2: Adds earthy depth during simmering then removed
  • Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances all the natural flavors
  • Olive oil 2 tablespoons: Used for sautéing adds richness without heaviness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Ingredients:
Chop the chicken and vegetables ahead of time so everything is ready to go. This step helps make the process smoother once the cooking begins and gives you a better rhythm in the kitchen.
Brown the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until golden. Remove it once browned. This step builds a flavorful foundation for the stew.
Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pot add chopped onion and garlic. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until soft and fragrant. Then add carrots and celery and continue cooking for 5 minutes. This helps release their natural sweetness and color.
Build the Stew:
Add potatoes chicken broth cooked chicken thyme bay leaves and season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil then lower heat and simmer for 30 to 40 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the flavors come together.
Finish and Serve:
Remove bay leaves then give it a final taste for seasoning. Serve hot and enjoy with your favorite sides. It’s a meal that feels like a warm hug.
A bowl of chicken goulash with vegetables. Bookmark
A bowl of chicken goulash with vegetables. | ioanacooks.com

Storage Tips

Let the stew cool completely before refrigerating. Store in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop for best flavor and texture. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have fresh thyme dried thyme will work but use a bit less. You can also swap potatoes for sweet potatoes or turnips if you want a different texture. For extra richness stir in a spoonful of plain yogurt just before serving.

A bowl of chicken goulash with vegetables. Bookmark
A bowl of chicken goulash with vegetables. | ioanacooks.com

Serving Suggestions

I love serving this stew with fresh bread or brown rice. A crisp green salad makes a refreshing contrast. A sprinkle of parsley or a squeeze of lemon at the end adds brightness.

Cultural Context

Stews like this are common in many traditions and bring people together. What makes this version special is how it blends nutrition and comfort in one simple pot. It reminds me of meals shared during quiet cozy weekends.

My favorite part of this recipe is the garlic. It lifts every bite with bold comforting flavor. The first time I made it my daughter asked for seconds before I even sat down. That moment sealed this stew as a family favorite.

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?

Yes, chicken thighs add more richness and moisture. Just trim excess fat and adjust cooking time as needed.

→ How do I thicken the stew?

Simmer uncovered to reduce liquid or mash a few potato chunks directly in the pot for natural thickness.

→ What herbs go well in chicken stew?

Thyme and bay leaves are classics, but rosemary or parsley can also add fresh, fragrant depth to the dish.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, let the stew cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with chicken stew?

Fresh bread, brown rice, or a simple salad all pair beautifully with the warm, savory flavors of this stew.

→ How long should I simmer the stew?

Simmer gently for 30–40 minutes until vegetables are tender and flavors are fully developed.

Healthy Chicken Stew

Hearty chicken stew with lean meat, veggies, and flavorful broth—a warm and nourishing meal.

Time Needed to Prep
20 minutes
Cooking Duration
40 minutes
Overall Time
60 minutes
Published By: Ioana

Category of Recipe: Soups & Stews

Preparation Difficulty: Easy to Make

Type of Cuisine: International

Number of Portions: 6 How Many It Serves (One large pot)

Dietary Preferences: No Gluten, Dairy-Free Suitable

Ingredients You'll Need

→ Main Ingredients

Ingredient 01 500 g chicken breast, diced
Ingredient 02 2 carrots, sliced
Ingredient 03 2 celery stalks, diced
Ingredient 04 3 potatoes, diced
Ingredient 05 1 onion, chopped
Ingredient 06 2 garlic cloves, minced
Ingredient 07 1 liter low-sodium chicken broth
Ingredient 08 1 tsp dried thyme
Ingredient 09 2 bay leaves
Ingredient 10 Salt, to taste
Ingredient 11 Black pepper, to taste
Ingredient 12 2 tbsp olive oil

Steps to Follow

Step 01

Dice the chicken breast, slice carrots, dice celery and potatoes, chop onion, and mince garlic.

Step 02

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced chicken and cook until golden brown, about 5–7 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Step 03

In the same pot, sauté chopped onion and garlic for 2–3 minutes until fragrant. Add sliced carrots and diced celery; cook for another 5 minutes.

Step 04

Return chicken to the pot. Add potatoes, chicken broth, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30–40 minutes.

Step 05

Remove bay leaves and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with bread, rice, or garnish with fresh herbs.

Extra Tips

  1. Cutting vegetables into uniform pieces helps ensure even cooking.
  2. Let the stew rest for 10 minutes before serving to enhance flavor.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large heavy-bottomed pot
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp kitchen knife
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cup
  • Lid
  • Serving spoon

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Remember, these values are for guidance only and shouldn't replace advice from a professional.
  • Calories Per Serving: 285
  • Total Fat: 10 grams
  • Carbohydrate Amount: 18 grams
  • Protein Amount: 30 grams