As the leaves turn golden and the air becomes crisp, there's nothing quite like a warm bowl of Autumn Spiced Chicken Stew to embrace the cozy season. This hearty dish, brimming with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs, promises to wrap you in comfort with every spoonful. Imagine the rich, savory aroma wafting through your kitchen as you prepare this delightful meal for family and friends. Ready to discover the secret to a stew that will have everyone asking for seconds? Dive into this recipe and transform your autumn evenings into something truly special!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 2 cups carrots, chopped
- 2 cups potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by cutting chicken thighs into 1-inch cubes, chopping carrots and potatoes into uniform bite-sized pieces, and finely mincing the onion and garlic.
- Season chicken pieces generously with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary, ensuring even coating of spices.
- Heat a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil.
- Brown chicken pieces in batches, cooking for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and developing a rich caramelized exterior. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté chopped onions until translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Return chicken to the pot and add chopped carrots and potatoes. Pour chicken broth over the ingredients, ensuring vegetables and meat are mostly submerged.
- Bring the stew to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 45-50 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Check chicken and vegetables for tenderness. The chicken should be fully cooked and potatoes should be soft but not mushy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. If the stew seems too thin, simmer uncovered for 5-10 minutes to reduce and thicken.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows flavors to meld and stew to slightly cool.
- Serve hot in deep bowls, optionally garnished with fresh chopped parsley or thyme leaves.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop your vegetables and chicken the night before. Store them in the fridge so they’re ready to go when you start cooking.
- Browning is Key: Don’t rush the browning of the chicken. This step adds depth of flavor to your stew, creating a rich base that enhances the entire dish.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other seasonal vegetables like parsnips or butternut squash for a unique twist that showcases autumn's bounty.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs if you have them on hand. Fresh thyme and rosemary can elevate the flavor profile even further.
- Thickening the Stew: If you prefer a thicker stew, mash a few of the potatoes against the side of the pot and stir them back in. This will naturally thicken the broth.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the stew to sit for about 10 minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld together, making each bite even more delicious.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair your stew with crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal that’s sure to impress.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 120mg
