Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew

#### **Instructions**:

1. **Sear the Chicken**:
Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper on both sides. Place the chicken in the pot and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until browned. You’re not cooking the chicken through at this point; just searing it to develop flavor. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.

2. **Sauté the Vegetables**:
In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the garlic, carrots, and celery and sauté for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help release the natural sugars in the vegetables, creating a savory base for the stew.

3. **Add the Broth**:
Return the chicken to the pot, along with any juices that have accumulated. Add the chicken broth, bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, and additional salt and pepper. Stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the stew simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

4. **Shred the Chicken**:
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the stew. Add the cubed potatoes, green beans, and peas to the pot. Stir well, and let the stew simmer for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.

5. **Adjust Seasoning**:
Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaves before serving.

6. **Serve**:
Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with crusty bread on the side for dipping, or enjoy it as-is for a satisfying, filling meal.

### **Customizing Your Stew**

While this recipe is a fantastic base, feel free to customize the stew to suit your personal tastes or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas:

– **Add Extra Vegetables**: Include other vegetables like parsnips, turnips, or sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile.
– **Make it Spicy**: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the stew.
– **Use Bone-In Chicken for More Flavor**: For even more depth of flavor, use bone-in chicken with the skin removed. The bones release collagen as the stew simmers, creating a richer, silkier broth.
– **Thicken the Stew**: If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mash a few of the potatoes with a fork or use a cornstarch slurry (a mixture of cornstarch and water) to thicken the broth.

### **Conclusion**

Chicken and vegetable stew is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting dish that brings people together. With its hearty chicken, wholesome vegetables, and flavorful broth, it’s the ultimate feel-good recipe. Whether you’re serving it on a cold winter night, at a family gathering, or as part of your weekly meal prep, this stew will always satisfy.

By following the tips and techniques shared in this article, you can craft a stew that is rich, flavorful, and tailored to your taste. So the next time you’re in the mood for a comforting, nutritious meal, make a big pot of this **Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew** and enjoy the warmth and nourishment it provides.