Are you craving a delicious, healthy, and incredibly comforting meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This whole stewed chicken recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering. It's a classic dish elevated with simple techniques that result in tender, juicy chicken and flavorful broth. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, transforming ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary, healthy dinner. Prepare to be amazed by how simple it is to create a homemade masterpiece! This recipe falls into many categories: easy recipes, healthy meals, quick dinner ideas, and of course, delicious dishes.
Ingredients:
- 1 (3-4 pound) whole chicken
- 8 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 large onion, quartered
- 2 carrots, roughly chopped
- 2 celery stalks, roughly chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, smashed
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Getting Started: Preparing the Chicken
- Rinse the chicken thoroughly inside and out under cold water. Pat it dry with paper towels. This step ensures crispy skin and even cooking.
Building Flavor: Sautéing the Aromatics
- Heat the olive oil in a large, oven-safe pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until slightly softened. This step adds depth of flavor to your stew.
Browning the Chicken: Adding Depth of Flavor
- Add the chicken to the pot and brown it on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Browning the chicken before adding the liquid creates a richer, more flavorful broth.
Simmering to Perfection: Creating a Delicious Stew
- Add the chicken broth, garlic, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily pulls apart with a fork. During cooking, check the liquid level. If it seems to evaporate too quickly, add a bit more broth.
Resting & Serving: Enjoying the Fruits of Your Labor
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pot and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender meat.
Serving Suggestions: Elevate Your Dish
- Skim off any excess fat from the broth. Serve the chicken with the flavorful broth, alongside some crusty bread for dipping. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Add a tablespoon of tomato paste along with the onions, carrots, and celery.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño pepper for a spicy kick.
- Make it a complete meal: Add potatoes, parsnips, or other root vegetables during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Leftovers are great!: Store leftover chicken and broth separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The broth can be used as a base for soup or other dishes.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-400 (depending on serving size and added vegetables)
- Protein: High
- Fat: Moderate
- Carbohydrates: Low to Moderate (depending on added vegetables)
This whole stewed chicken recipe is a fantastic example of healthy meals and best recipes that are both delicious and easy to prepare. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful dish! It's a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and homemade cooking endeavors.