When the temperatures drop and the nights grow longer, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a warm, hearty bowl of stew. That cozy feeling of comfort food can be hard to resist, especially when you can whip it up in just one pot. This is why I’ve put together a collection of 10 healthy chicken stew recipes perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something nutritious yet delicious.
If you love cooking but find yourself short on time, this post is for you. You might be a busy parent juggling work and family or maybe you’re just someone looking for some easy dinner ideas that won’t leave you feeling guilty. Whatever your situation, these recipes offer a way to enjoy wholesome meals without the fuss. They combine the best of both worlds: quick preparation and healthy ingredients.
You’ll discover a variety of easy chicken stew options that cater to different tastes and preferences. From a classic chicken and vegetable stew to a zesty lemon herb chicken stew, each recipe is designed to bring warmth to your dinner table while being packed with nutrients. No more thinking of what to cook every night—these stews are your new go-to for comfort food recipes that nourish both body and soul.
Get ready to dive into a world of flavors that will not only satisfy your hunger but also keep you feeling great. Each recipe is crafted to make your weeknight dinners more enjoyable and fulfilling. So grab your apron, and let’s get cooking with these nutritious meals that hit all the right notes.
Key Takeaways
– Discover 10 healthy chicken stew recipes, each designed for easy preparation and maximum flavor.
– Enjoy diverse options, including spicy, creamy, and Mediterranean flavors to suit various tastes.
– These one-pot chicken dishes simplify clean-up, making your cooking experience stress-free.
– Each recipe emphasizes wholesome ingredients, ensuring you get nutritious meals without sacrificing taste.
– Perfect for busy weeknights, these stews can be made quickly, giving you more time to relax and enjoy dinner.
1. Classic Chicken and Vegetable Stew
Imagine a warm bowl that welcomes you home. This Classic Chicken and Vegetable Stew keeps flavors bright as they simmer. You get tender chicken, carrots, potatoes, and celery in a savory broth that feels like a hug in a bowl. It is simple to pull together after a busy day and still tastes like home cooking.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 3 carrots, sliced
– 2 potatoes, diced
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 onion, diced
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add onion and sauté until translucent.
3. Add chicken thighs and brown on all sides.
4. Stir in carrots, potatoes, and celery.
5. Pour in chicken broth and season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
7. Serve hot with whole-grain bread.
FAQs:
– Can I use chicken breast instead? Yes, but thighs add more flavor.
– Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
– What else can I add for extra nutrition? Add spinach at the end or a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
Classic Chicken and Vegetable Stew
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Bright flavors lift a cozy night. Fresh lemon juice and zest cut through hearty chicken and vegetables. A light touch of oregano and olive oil keeps the stew simple and bright. You can swap in what you have and still keep the comforting feel.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs chicken breast, cut into cubes
– 2 cups zucchini, sliced
– 1 bell pepper, chopped
– 1 onion, diced
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 lemon, juiced and zested
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat and sauté onion until soft.
2. Add chicken cubes and cook until browned.
3. Stir in zucchini and bell pepper, cooking for 5 minutes.
4. Pour in chicken broth and add lemon juice, zest, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer for 25 minutes on low heat.
6. Serve warm, garnished with lemon slices.
FAQs:
– Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, it reheats well and tastes even better the next day.
– Is quinoa a good side? Yes, it pairs well for extra protein.
Lemon Herb Chicken Stew
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If you like heat, this stew hits the spot. Chicken and beans blend into a filling one-pot meal. Cumin and chili powder wake the broth, while jalapeños add a clean kick. Top with avocado or yogurt for a creamy finish and a cool contrast.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs chicken thighs, chopped
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 bell pepper, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 jalapeños, diced (seeds removed for less heat)
– 2 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a pot, heat olive oil and sauté onions and bell pepper until soft.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned.
3. Stir in jalapeños, black beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, and chicken broth.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
5. Check seasoning and serve hot.
FAQs:
– Is this dish freezable? Absolutely, store in airtight containers.
– How can I adjust heat? Use fewer jalapeños or seeds removed for milder spice.
– Any add-ins? Corn or avocado work well for texture.
Spicy Chicken Stew with Black Beans
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Escape to a tropical moment with every spoonful. Coconut milk softens the bite of the curry and coats each piece of chicken. Peppers and onion bring color and crunch to the bowl. It’s quick to make, so you can dine well on busy nights.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs chicken breasts, cubed
– 1 can coconut milk
– 2 cups bell peppers, sliced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp curry powder
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat olive oil and sauté garlic and onion until fragrant.
2. Add cubed chicken and cook until browned.
3. Stir in bell peppers and cook for another 5 minutes.
4. Pour in coconut milk, add curry powder, and season with salt and pepper.
5. Simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Serve hot with rice.
FAQs:
– Can I use light coconut milk? Yes, it still tastes great.
– Can I swap chicken for shrimp? Yes, add shrimp at the end and cook briefly.
– What sides go well? Rice or cauliflower rice work nicely.
Healthy chicken stew recipes can be weeknight miracles. Creamy coconut broth boosts flavor fast, while peppers add crunch and color. Keep staples ready, toss in coconut milk and curry, and dinner is on the table in minutes.
Creamy Coconut Chicken Stew
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Protein and fiber team up in this one-pot favorite. Quinoa adds a nutty bite that stays fluffy as it soaks up the broth. Chicken and veggies come alive with thyme and a gentle simmer. It travels well for meal prep and busy evenings.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a pot and sauté onions, carrots, and celery until soft.
2. Add diced chicken and cook until no longer pink.
3. Stir in quinoa, chicken broth, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
5. Remove bay leaf and serve warm.
FAQs:
– Is quinoa gluten-free? Yes, naturally gluten-free.
– Can I add greens? Spinach or kale lift nutrients easily.
– How long does it keep? Up to 3 days in fridge.
Fun fact: One cup of quinoa adds about 8g protein and 5g fiber to your healthy chicken stew recipes, boosting fullness without extra steps. This one-pot meal stays fluffy as it soaks up the broth, perfect for meal prep on busy weeknights.
Hearty Chicken and Quinoa Stew
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Transport your taste buds to the coast with bright olives and sunny tomatoes. The chicken soaks up tang from olives and the herbs brighten every bite. It’s a cozy dinner that pairs well with crusty bread or a mixed salad. A simple, satisfying dish for any night.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs chicken thighs, quartered
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat and sauté onion until translucent.
2. Add chicken thighs and cook until browned.
3. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes, olives, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer for 25 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve warm, drizzled with olive oil.
FAQs:
– Can I use other olives? Green olives work well too.
– Can I add chickpeas? Yes, they pair nicely with the Mediterranean flavors.
Mediterranean Chicken Stew
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Colorful vegetables and bold curry meet in this stew. Coconut milk makes the sauce silky, while red curry paste adds warmth. A squeeze of lime brightens the finish. It cooks fast and pairs with rice for a complete meal.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs chicken breast, sliced
– 1 can coconut milk
– 2 tbsp red curry paste
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 cup snap peas
– 1 onion, sliced
– 1 tbsp fish sauce
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– Fresh cilantro for garnish
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a pot, sauté onion until soft.
2. Add sliced chicken and cook until no longer pink.
3. Stir in curry paste and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add coconut milk, bell pepper, snap peas, fish sauce, lime juice, and salt.
5. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes.
6. Serve garnished with cilantro.
FAQs:
– Can this be made vegetarian? Yes, use tofu or extra veggies.
– How spicy is it? Adjust curry paste to taste.
Thai Red Curry Chicken Stew
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Earthy mushrooms deepen the flavor in every spoonful. Chicken stays tender as it braises with onions and thyme. It’s a simple crowd-pleaser with a touch of gourmet feel. Serve with mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs chicken thighs, cut into chunks
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms, sliced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tbsp flour (optional)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat and sauté onion and carrots until soft.
2. Add chicken and brown on all sides.
3. Stir in mushrooms and cook until they’ve released their moisture.
4. Sprinkle flour (if using) and stir well.
5. Add chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper, bringing it to a boil.
6. Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
7. Serve warm.
FAQs:
– Can I use other cuts of chicken? Yes, any cut will work well here.
– Should I add wine? A splash of white wine can deepen the flavor if you like.
Rustic Chicken and Mushroom Stew
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Sweet potatoes add a gentle sweetness to a robust stew. The single pot keeps cleanup simple and fast. This dish stores well and reheats nicely, making busy weeknights easier. A little feta on top gives a tangy finish that brightens every bite.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs chicken thighs, chopped
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté onion and carrots until softened.
2. Add chicken and brown on all sides.
3. Stir in sweet potatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer for 25 minutes until sweet potatoes are tender.
6. Serve warm, optionally topped with feta cheese.
FAQs:
– Can I substitute regular potatoes? Yes, any potato works.
– Can I make this in a slow cooker? Yes, cook on low for 6-8 hours.
One-Pot Chicken and Sweet Potato Stew
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A pan of warm spices, chickpeas, and tomatoes fills your kitchen with aroma. Cinnamon and cumin give a comforting gentle heat. The dish nourishes the body and invites slow dining. Serve with couscous or pita for a complete meal that feels special.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs chicken thighs, cut into pieces
– 1 can chickpeas, drained
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 cups diced tomatoes
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tbsp cinnamon
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot and sauté onion until translucent.
2. Add chicken pieces and brown on all sides.
3. Stir in carrots, tomatoes, chickpeas, cinnamon, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
6. Serve warm over couscous or with pita bread.
FAQs:
– Can I make this vegetarian? Yes, swap chicken for extra chickpeas or veggies.
– Any garnish ideas? Cilantro and a squeeze of lemon brighten the dish.
Weeknights call for comfort, not complexity. This Moroccan Chicken Stew is one of the healthy chicken stew recipes that come together in one pot—brown, simmer, and serve with couscous. Cinnamon and cumin turn leftovers into cozy, flavorful meals.
Moroccan Chicken Stew
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These 10 healthy chicken stew recipes elevate comfort food to a whole new level! They provide warmth and nourishment, perfect for cozy dinners after long days. With such a diverse range of flavors and ingredients, you’re bound to find a new favorite to share with your loved ones.
So, gather those ingredients, pick a recipe, and create unforgettable meals that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Are Some Easy and Healthy Chicken Stew Recipes for Busy Weeknights?
If you’re looking for easy chicken stew recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights, you’ve come to the right place! Our article features 10 healthy chicken stew recipes that are not only simple to prepare but also delicious and comforting. You can whip up these nutritious meals in one pot, making cleanup a breeze! Each recipe is designed to be quick and easy, so you can enjoy a cozy dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
How Can I Make My Chicken Stew Healthier?
To make your chicken stew healthier, consider incorporating more vegetables like carrots, spinach, and bell peppers for added nutrients. You can also use lean chicken breasts instead of thighs, and opt for low-sodium broth to control your sodium intake. Additionally, using whole grains like brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice can boost the fiber content of your stew, making it a more nutritious meal overall!
What Are Some Tips for Cooking One-Pot Chicken Dishes?
Cooking one-pot chicken dishes can be a time-saver! Here are some tips: First, brown the chicken to develop flavor before adding other ingredients. Then, layer your vegetables based on their cooking times—harder veggies like carrots should go in first, followed by softer ones like zucchini. Don’t forget to season your stew well; herbs and spices can elevate the taste. Lastly, let it simmer to allow the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a warm and cozy dinner experience.
Are Chicken Stews Considered Comfort Food?
Absolutely! Chicken stews are a classic example of comfort food recipes. They offer warmth and heartiness, making them ideal for chilly nights. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful broth, and wholesome vegetables creates a satisfying dish that not only fills you up but also brings a sense of nostalgia. Whether you’re enjoying a bowl on a rainy day or sharing it with loved ones, chicken stew is sure to provide that cozy feeling we all crave.
Can I Freeze Leftover Chicken Stew for Later?
Yes, you can definitely freeze leftover chicken stew! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Label it with the date, and it can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave. This way, you can enjoy your healthy dinner ideas even on the busiest of nights!
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