Ingredients

• 400g Chicken Fillet (cut into medium pieces)
• Salt and Pepper (to taste)
• Favorite Spices (such as paprika, thyme, or Italian seasoning, to taste)
• 2-3 Onions (sliced)
• 2 Carrots (peeled and sliced)
• 4-5 Potatoes (peeled and chopped)
• 2-3 Tomatoes (sliced)
• 1 Zucchini (sliced)
• 1/2 Bell Pepper (sliced)
• 5-6 Garlic Cloves (whole or minced)
• Fresh Herbs (parsley, dill, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Cut the chicken fillet: Cut the 400g of chicken fillet into medium-sized pieces. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices, such as paprika, thyme, or Italian seasoning.
2. Chop the vegetables: Slice the onions, carrots, potatoes, tomatoes, zucchini, and bell pepper into bite-sized pieces. For a more rustic style, you can leave the vegetables in larger chunks. Peel and leave the garlic cloves whole or mince them, depending on your preference.

Step 2: Layer the Ingredients in a Pot

1. Layer the chicken: In a large pot or Dutch oven, place the seasoned chicken pieces at the bottom.
2. Add the vegetables: Next, layer the sliced onions, carrots, potatoes, tomatoes, zucchini, and bell pepper over the chicken. Spread the vegetables evenly to ensure they cook through. Add the whole or minced garlic cloves on top.

Step 3: Add Seasonings and Herbs

1. Season the pot: Sprinkle a bit more salt, pepper, and your favorite spices over the vegetables. You can add dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or rosemary to enhance the flavor.
2. Add fresh herbs: If using fresh parsley or dill, chop them roughly and set them aside for garnishing later. You can also add a few sprigs to the pot for a boost of freshness as it cooks.

Step 4: Cook Everything Together

1. Cover the pot: Once everything is in the pot, cover it with a tight-fitting lid.
2. Simmer: Place the pot on the stove over low to medium heat and let it cook for 1.5 hours. You don’t need to stir or check on it frequently—just let it simmer away. The chicken will become tender, and the vegetables will release their juices, creating a flavorful broth.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Check for doneness: After 1.5 hours, check the chicken and vegetables to ensure everything is cooked through. The chicken should be tender, and the vegetables should be soft but not mushy.
2. Garnish and serve: Once done, sprinkle fresh parsley or dill over the top for a burst of flavor and color. Serve the chicken and vegetable stew hot, either as a standalone dish or alongside crusty bread, rice, or pasta.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 500mg

Note: These values are approximate and may vary depending on the exact ingredients used.

FAQs

1. Can I use different vegetables?
Yes! This recipe is very flexible, so feel free to swap in vegetables like sweet potatoes, butternut squash, or green beans depending on what you have on hand.

2. Do I need to add any liquid to the pot?
No additional liquid is needed because the vegetables, especially tomatoes and zucchini, will release moisture as they cook. However, if you prefer a brothier stew, you can add a cup of water or chicken broth.

3. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Absolutely. Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe and add extra flavor and moisture to the dish.

4. Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
Yes! You can transfer all the ingredients into a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The result will be just as delicious.

Tips for Making the Perfect One-Pot Chicken and Vegetable Stew

1. Cut the vegetables evenly: Make sure the vegetables are cut into roughly the same size to ensure even cooking. Potatoes and carrots, which take longer to cook, can be cut into slightly smaller pieces.
2. Don’t lift the lid: Try not to lift the lid while the dish is cooking, as it allows steam to escape, which can extend the cooking time and result in less tender vegetables.
3. Add fresh herbs at the end: For the best flavor, add fresh herbs like parsley or dill right before serving. Cooking them for too long can reduce their brightness and flavor.
4. Experiment with spices: Don’t be afraid to play around with spices. You can add cumin, smoked paprika, or even curry powder to give the dish a different flavor profile.

Storage Tips

1. Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
2. Freezing: This dish freezes well. Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
3. Reheating: To reheat, simply place the stew in a pot and heat over medium-low heat until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions on medium power.

Conclusion

This Easy One-Pot Chicken and Vegetable Stew is the perfect recipe for those days when you want something wholesome and delicious but don’t have the time or energy to cook a complicated meal. By simply layering chicken and vegetables in a pot with a few seasonings and letting it simmer for 1.5 hours, you can create a rich and flavorful dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious. The best part? There’s minimal cleanup! Enjoy this hearty stew with family and friends, and feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables and spices for a personalized twist.