Are you looking for a hearty, flavorful, and surprisingly easy weeknight dinner? Look no further than this delicious Chicken Brunswick Stew recipe! This classic Southern dish is packed with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a rich, savory broth that will leave you wanting more. It's perfect for a chilly evening, a potluck gathering, or simply a satisfying homemade meal. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. It's one of those easy recipes that feels incredibly rewarding.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15-ounce) can whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can lima beans, drained
- 1 cup chopped potatoes (Yukon Gold or russet)
- 1/2 cup chopped carrots
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
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Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and green bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This step builds a great flavor base for your stew.
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Brown the chicken: Add the chicken to the pot and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
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Simmer the stew: Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, corn, lima beans, potatoes, and carrots. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together. This is a great recipe for slow cooking!
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Serve and enjoy: Once the stew is cooked, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or cornbread for a truly satisfying meal.
Tips for the Best Chicken Brunswick Stew:
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Use bone-in chicken: For an even richer flavor, try using bone-in chicken thighs or a combination of breast and thigh meat. Just remember to increase the simmering time.
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Add other vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like okra, green beans, or squash.
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Make it smoky: For a smoky flavor, add a tablespoon of smoked paprika or a few dashes of liquid smoke.
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Thicken the stew: If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mash some of the potatoes against the side of the pot during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Alternatively, a cornstarch slurry can be used.
Variations:
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Vegetarian Brunswick Stew: Omit the chicken and add 1 cup of cooked lentils or chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian version.
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Spicy Brunswick Stew: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a chopped jalapeño pepper for extra heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 30-40g
This Chicken Brunswick Stew recipe is a delicious and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s a fantastic example of healthy meals that are also easy and quick to prepare. Enjoy this taste of the South!