Are you craving a hearty, flavorful meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this Cajun Chicken Stew! This delicious dish bursts with the vibrant flavors of Louisiana, offering a comforting and satisfying experience perfect for a busy weeknight or a special occasion. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking that's both healthy and incredibly delicious. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this quick dinner idea!
Ingredients:
This recipe serves 4-6 people.
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup chopped potatoes (Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well)
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions, for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken and Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
In the same pot, add the onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic, Cajun seasoning, thyme, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Simmer the Stew
Return the chicken to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Add the potatoes and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.
Step 4: Add Corn and Serve
Stir in the frozen corn during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Tips for the Best Cajun Chicken Stew:
- Don't be shy with the Cajun seasoning! Adjust the amount to your liking. Start with 1 tablespoon and add more if you prefer a spicier stew.
- Use high-quality chicken broth for the best flavor. Homemade broth is ideal, but store-bought low-sodium broth works well too.
- For a thicker stew, you can mash some of the potatoes against the side of the pot before adding the corn.
- Add other vegetables! Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like okra, carrots, or zucchini.
Variations:
- Andouille Sausage: Add 1/2 pound of sliced andouille sausage along with the chicken for extra flavor and heartiness.
- Shrimp: For a seafood twist, substitute the chicken with 1 pound of shrimp and reduce the cooking time accordingly.
- Creamy Stew: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or coconut milk during the last few minutes of cooking for a richer, creamier stew.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
This Cajun Chicken Stew recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals. It’s a delicious dish that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a more relaxed weekend meal. Enjoy!