Hearty Harvest Stew

Ingredients

• 2 pounds (900g) boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces 2 pounds (900g) boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, diced 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 4 cups (950ml) chicken broth 4 cups (950ml) chicken broth
• 1 cup (240ml) water 1 cup (240ml) water
• 1 bay leaf 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 4g
• Protein: 40g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
2. 2.
   In the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
3. 3.
   Add the carrots, celery, and potatoes to the pot. Stir and cook for a few minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
4. 4.
   Return the browned chicken to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and water. Add the bay leaf, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper.
5. 5.
   Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for about 1 hour, or until the chicken is tender and the flavors have melded together.
6. 6.
   Remove the bay leaf before serving. Adjust the seasoning if needed.
7. 7.
   Ladle the Hearty Harvest Stew into bowls and serve hot.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chicken thighs — For a richer flavor, you can use bone-in chicken thighs instead of boneless. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Tips & Tricks

• To add a smoky flavor, you can include a small amount of smoked paprika or chipotle powder.
• Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what's in season or your personal preferences.
• For a heartier stew, you can add additional root vegetables like parsnips or turnips.
• If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the stew during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and taste even better the next day.

Serving advice

Serve the Hearty Harvest Stew with a crusty bread or cornbread on the side to soak up the flavorful broth. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a pop of color.

Presentation advice

Present the Hearty Harvest Stew in rustic bowls or deep plates. Sprinkle some freshly ground black pepper on top and place a sprig of fresh thyme for an elegant touch. Serve with a warm smile and enjoy the cozy atmosphere it creates.