How to Make Italian Chicken Stew – A Hearty and Flavorful Recipe

 Italian Chicken Stew is the very definition of comfort food. Packed with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and bold Italian flavors, it's a dish that warms your soul and satisfies your hunger. This classic stew traces its roots to regional Italian cooking, where rustic, nutrient-rich ingredients combine to create wholesome meals. Perfect for chilly evenings or busy weeknights, this dish is as easy to make as it is delicious.

Below, you'll find a step-by-step guide to preparing this timeless Italian Chicken Stew recipe. Whether you're an experienced home chef or a cooking enthusiast, this recipe is simple, customizable, and guaranteed to delight.

Ingredients

To create this flavorful Italian Chicken Stew, you'll need the following ingredients:

For the Stew:

• 2 lbs. (907g) bone-in, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts, if preferred)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 large red bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium zucchini, diced
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 (14 oz.) can of diced tomatoes (preferably San Marzano tomatoes)
• 4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium if possible)
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick of heat)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped (plus more for garnish)

For Serving:

• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Crusty Italian bread or warm focaccia

Instructions

Step 1: Prep and Sear the Chicken

1. Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and black pepper.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
3. Once the oil is hot, sear the chicken thighs on both sides until golden-brown, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set aside. (This step locks in flavor and creates a rich base for the stew.)

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Add the chopped onions to the same pot and sauté until they are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the garlic, carrots, celery, and red bell pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Build the Stew

1. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and the bay leaf.
2. Stir well, then return the seared chicken to the pot. Add the potatoes and zucchini, ensuring the ingredients are fully submerged in the broth.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

1. Cover the pot with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Allow the stew to simmer gently for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
2. If the stew thickens too much during simmering, you can add a splash of chicken broth or water to adjust the consistency.

Step 5: Final Touches

1. Once the chicken is cooked, remove the bay leaf and stir in the fresh parsley.
2. For an optional step, you can carefully remove the chicken, shred or cut it into bite-sized pieces, and return it to the pot.

Tips for Serving and Customization

• Serving Suggestions: Ladle the stew into bowls and top with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Serve alongside warm crusty bread, which is perfect for mopping up the flavorful broth.
• Customizations: You can easily swap or add ingredients to suit your taste. Add mushrooms for earthiness, spinach for extra greens, or substitute sweet potatoes for regular ones.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
• Make it Your Own: Love spice? Increase the red pepper flakes. Prefer a creamy consistency? Stir in a splash of heavy cream in the final minutes of cooking.

Why You'll Love Italian Chicken Stew

This Italian Chicken Stew recipe is more than just a meal—it's an experience. The blend of fragrant herbs, tender chicken, and hearty vegetables creates a dish that's satisfying and wholesome. Plus, its one-pot preparation makes it an easy cleanup option for busy households.

Next time you're looking for comfort in a bowl, give this Italian Chicken Stew a try. Whether you're cooking for your family or entertaining friends, this recipe is sure to leave everyone asking for seconds! Buon appetito!