How about a dish that’s both hearty and healthy? Would you try this? – Page 2

How to Make One-Pot Chicken and Vegetable Stew:

Step 1: Brown the Chicken

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the chicken chunks to the pot, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is browned on all sides. You don’t need to cook the chicken all the way through, as it will finish cooking in the broth. Once browned, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Veggies

In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, until it softens and becomes translucent.
Add the minced garlic, and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
Add the carrots, celery, zucchini, bell pepper, and green beans to the pot. Stir to combine and cook for 3-4 minutes. This will start to soften the vegetables and build flavor.

Step 3: Add Broth and Seasonings

Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced tomatoes (with their juices).
Stir in the dried thyme, dried oregano, and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low to simmer. Let it cook uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.

Step 4: Return Chicken and Finish Cooking

Add the browned chicken back to the pot. Stir everything together and simmer for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and absorb the flavors.
Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary—add a little more salt, pepper, or herbs to your liking.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.
Serve hot and enjoy!

Why This Stew Is Hearty and Healthy:

Lean Protein from Chicken: Chicken breast or thighs are excellent sources of lean protein, which helps to keep you full and aids in muscle recovery.
Vegetables Galore: The stew features a variety of vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and green beans, which provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals. These help keep your digestive system running smoothly while boosting your immune system.
Low in Fat, High in Flavor: By using a moderate amount of olive oil and a low-sodium chicken broth, this stew is both heart-healthy and packed with flavor.
Rich in Antioxidants: The tomatoes in the stew contribute to its rich red color and offer a dose of antioxidants like lycopene, which is linked to heart health.

Tips for Making the Perfect Chicken and Vegetable Stew:

Use Bone-In Chicken: For even more flavor, you can use bone-in chicken (such as thighs or drumsticks) and remove the bones after the chicken is cooked through. The bones add an extra depth of flavor to the broth.
Swap Veggies: This stew is highly customizable. Feel free to swap in other vegetables like sweet potatoes, spinach, kale, or parsnips based on what you have in your fridge.
Make It Spicy: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the stew. You can also use chili powder or smoked paprika for a different flavor profile.
Make It Ahead: This stew keeps well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, making it perfect for meal prep. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 3 months.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve with Crusty Bread: A thick slice of toasted whole-grain bread or a baguette is perfect for dipping into the hearty stew.
Over Brown Rice or Quinoa: For an extra fiber boost, serve this stew over a bed of brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
With a Side Salad: Pair the stew with a simple green salad or a fresh cucumber and tomato salad for added crunch and freshness.

Final Thoughts:

This One-Pot Chicken and Vegetable Stew is the ultimate hearty and healthy dish that combines lean protein, fresh vegetables, and bold herbs to create a meal that’s both satisfying and nourishing. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead.

Not only is it delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients that support your overall health and well-being. So, next time you’re craving something comforting yet light, give this stew a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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