This warm and hearty chicken stew is filled with tender chicken, sweet potatoes, and veggies. It’s like a big hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly days!
I love how the sweet potatoes give it a nice touch of sweetness. It’s so easy to throw everything in one pot and let it simmer—no fuss, just comfort! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Chicken thighs are super juicy and pack great flavor, but if you prefer white meat, chicken breasts work just fine. You can even use leftover rotisserie chicken—just add it toward the end to warm it through!
Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes add a lovely sweetness. If you want to switch it up, you could use regular potatoes, but keep in mind they won’t be as sweet or creamy.
Coconut Milk: This is optional but adds creaminess and a nice tropical flavor. If you’re avoiding coconut, you can use heavy cream, or even leave it out for a lighter stew.
Spices: Ground cumin and smoked paprika add depth, while ground cinnamon gives it a warm undertone. Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste or substitute your favorites!
How Do I Cook Chicken So It Stays Juicy and Tender?
Getting the chicken just right can be a game-changer for your stew. Here are some tips:
- First, make sure not to overcrowd the pot when browning the chicken. It should have space to cook evenly.
- Stir occasionally and let it get that nice golden brown without cooking it completely through. It will continue to cook once the liquid is added.
- Using low and slow cooking is key. Once you add the broth and veggies, keep it at a simmer—not a hard boil. This keeps the chicken tender.
Easy Chicken Stew with Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stew:
- 1.5 lbs chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes or tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup coconut milk (optional for creaminess)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnishing:
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped roasted cashews or peanuts
- 2 tbsp shredded coconut (optional garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful chicken stew will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook, making a total of about 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the chopped onion. Sauté, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent—about 5 minutes. This step builds the base flavor for your stew.
2. Add Garlic and Chicken:
Next, add the minced garlic into the pot and let it cook for about 1 minute, stirring until it’s fragrant. Then, add the chicken chunks into the pot. Sprinkle in salt, pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, and cinnamon. Cook while stirring occasionally until the chicken is browned on all sides, which will take about 5-7 minutes. Yum!
3. Mix in the Veggies:
Now it’s time to add the star ingredients! Stir in the cubed sweet potatoes, diced tomatoes (or tomato sauce), and chicken broth. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
4. Let It Simmer:
Allow the stew to simmer for 20-25 minutes. This is when all the flavors meld together, and the sweet potatoes become tender. Don’t rush this part; it’s worth the wait!
5. Stir in Coconut Milk:
If you decided to use coconut milk, stir it in now and let it cook for another 5 minutes, allowing everything to heat through and mix in nicely.
6. Taste and Garnish:
Before serving, taste the stew and adjust the seasonings as needed with more salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro or parsley, roasted cashews or peanuts, and a sprinkle of shredded coconut for that extra touch!
This stew pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or warm crusty bread. Enjoy your heartwarming meal!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Stew with Sweet Potatoes
Can I Use Different Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative. You can add carrots, peas, or greens like spinach towards the end of cooking for extra nutrition and flavor. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the vegetables you choose.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make this stew vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth. You can add more hearty vegetables, like mushrooms or chickpeas, to replace the protein. You could also add tofu for a protein boost!
Can I Freeze This Stew for Later?
Yes, this stew freezes well! Allow it to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and warm it on the stove over low heat.
What Should I Serve with This Stew?
This comforting stew pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, warm crusty bread, or even over quinoa for a heartier meal. You can also serve it with a simple green salad on the side for a fresh touch!
