Hearty Ground Chicken and Veggie Stew Recipe

When the days grow shorter and the chill of late fall starts to settle in, there’s nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of homemade stew. This Hearty Ground Chicken and Veggie Stew captures everything you crave in a cozy meal—rich, savory broth, tender vegetables, and perfectly seasoned ground chicken simmered together to create a dish that feels like a hug in a bowl. It’s ideal for busy weeknights, relaxed weekends, or any time you need a hearty dinner that’s both nourishing and satisfying.

This recipe was inspired by the wholesome, slow-cooked stews many of us grew up enjoying. But instead of using heavy cuts of meat, it features lean ground chicken, making it a lighter yet equally flavorful version of a family favorite. The combination of fresh vegetables and savory herbs brings a homemade touch that feels just right for November and December—when we crave warmth, comfort, and simple meals that bring people together.

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Ingredients

For the Stew

• 1 ½ pounds ground chicken

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 large onion, diced

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 3 medium carrots, sliced

• 2 celery stalks, chopped

• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• 1 zucchini, chopped

• 1 cup frozen peas

• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• ½ teaspoon dried oregano

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Directions

1. Prepare the Base

Start by heating olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

2. Cook the Ground Chicken

Add the ground chicken to the pot, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink and begins to brown slightly, about 6–8 minutes. Season lightly with salt and black pepper to layer in flavor from the start.

3. Add the Aromatic Vegetables

Once the chicken is cooked through, add the carrots and celery. Stir and cook for 5 minutes to allow the vegetables to soften slightly and absorb the savory flavors from the chicken and onions.

4. Incorporate the Potatoes and Seasonings

Add the cubed potatoes, bell pepper, and zucchini to the pot. Stir in tomato paste, smoked paprika, thyme, basil, and oregano. These herbs and spices give the stew depth and a rustic aroma that fills your kitchen with cozy comfort. Cook for 2–3 minutes to allow the seasonings to bloom.

5. Add Liquids and Simmer

Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes, including their juices. Stir everything together, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits—that’s where much of the flavor hides. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

As it simmers, the potatoes will soften, and the broth will thicken slightly to create a hearty consistency.

6. Add the Final Vegetables

Once the stew has reduced and thickened, stir in the corn and peas. Continue to simmer for an additional 5–10 minutes until the vegetables are tender and everything is well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.

7. Serve and Garnish

Ladle the Hearty Ground Chicken and Veggie Stew into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve with crusty bread, a warm roll, or a simple green salad for a complete, balanced meal.

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Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time

45 minutes

Total Time

1 hour

Yield

6 servings

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Tips for the Perfect Stew

1. Brown the Chicken Well:
Don’t rush the browning step. Letting the ground chicken develop some color in the pot builds deep flavor that carries through the whole stew.

2. Use Fresh Herbs for Brightness:
While dried herbs give the stew depth, finishing with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme right before serving adds a burst of freshness that elevates the dish.

3. Adjust Thickness to Your Liking:
If you prefer a thicker stew, let it simmer uncovered a bit longer. For a thinner, soup-like consistency, add an extra cup of chicken broth.

4. Don’t Skip the Tomato Paste:
It adds a subtle richness and enhances the savory flavor without overpowering the vegetables.

5. Make It Ahead:
This stew tastes even better the next day. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months for a ready-made meal whenever you need a quick comfort fix.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hearty and Nutritious:
Packed with lean protein and a colorful mix of vegetables, this stew is a wholesome meal that satisfies without feeling heavy.

Budget-Friendly:
Using ground chicken makes this a cost-effective option for feeding a family or meal prepping for the week.

Perfect for Any Season:
Though it’s especially comforting in colder months, this recipe works year-round thanks to its flexible ingredients.

Customizable:
You can easily switch up the vegetables depending on what’s in season or what you have on hand—try adding sweet potatoes, green beans, or kale for a fresh twist.

Family Approved:
Kids and adults alike love this simple, flavorful meal that brings everyone to the table.

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How to Store and Reheat

Refrigerate:
Once cooled, store the stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freeze:
To freeze, portion the stew into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheat:
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or water to restore the desired consistency.

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Variations

1. Add More Veggies:
Try stirring in chopped spinach, kale, or green beans during the last 5 minutes of cooking for extra nutrients and color.

2. Sweet Potato Version:
Replace the white potatoes with cubed sweet potatoes for a subtly sweet and earthy flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.

3. Spicy Kick:
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño when you sauté the onions if you like a bit of heat.

4. Creamy Option:
For a creamier stew, stir in ½ cup of coconut milk or a few tablespoons of cream at the end of cooking. It creates a silky texture and mild sweetness.

5. Herb Lovers’ Twist:
Mix in a handful of chopped fresh basil or dill just before serving for a garden-fresh aroma.

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Serving Ideas

With Bread:
Pair this stew with crusty artisan bread, baguette slices, or even garlic toast for soaking up every drop of flavorful broth.

Over Rice or Quinoa:
Serve it ladled over cooked rice, quinoa, or couscous for an extra-filling meal.

Topped with Parmesan:
A sprinkle of shredded Parmesan or a dollop of Greek yogurt can add a creamy, tangy contrast to the savory flavors.

As a Freezer Meal:
Make a big batch, divide it into portions, and freeze. It’s perfect for quick lunches or dinners when life gets busy.

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Health Benefits

This Hearty Ground Chicken and Veggie Stew isn’t just delicious—it’s also loaded with nutrients that make you feel good about what’s in your bowl.

• Lean Protein: Ground chicken provides essential amino acids without the extra fat of heavier meats.

• Fiber-Rich Vegetables: Carrots, celery, potatoes, and zucchini deliver vitamins, minerals, and fiber for healthy digestion.

• Low in Fat, High in Flavor: With olive oil and broth as the base, you get satisfying richness without unnecessary calories.

• Balanced Nutrition: Each serving offers a great mix of protein, carbohydrates, and veggies—perfect for a complete meal.

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Make-Ahead and Meal Prep Tips

If you’re planning meals for the week, this ground chicken and veggie stew is a smart choice. Here’s how to make it even easier:

• Prep the Veggies: Chop all your vegetables the day before and store them in the refrigerator in airtight containers.

• Cook the Chicken Ahead: You can brown the ground chicken a day in advance and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to cook, add it straight to the pot with the broth and vegetables.

• Freeze Individual Portions: For grab-and-go lunches, freeze single servings in microwave-safe containers.

• Reheat in Minutes: This stew reheats beautifully without losing flavor or texture, making it a go-to option for busy weekdays.

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Why It’s Perfect for Fall and Winter

During the colder months, our bodies naturally crave warmth and nourishment, and this Hearty Ground Chicken and Veggie Stew delivers both. The slow simmering process fills your kitchen with comforting aromas, and each spoonful offers a balance of savory richness and wholesome goodness.

It’s a dish that brings people together—whether you’re serving it for a casual family dinner, packing it for a work lunch, or sharing it with friends after a chilly day outside. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s proof that the most satisfying meals are often the ones made from scratch, one simmering pot at a time.

Common Questions About Ground Chicken Stew

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?
Yes, ground turkey works perfectly in this recipe. It has a similar texture and mild flavor that complements the vegetables and seasonings.

How can I make this stew thicker?
If you prefer a thicker texture, mash a few of the potatoes against the side of the pot or let the stew simmer uncovered for an extra 10–15 minutes.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely. Brown the ground chicken and onions first on the stovetop, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.

Can I make it vegetarian?
You can swap the ground chicken for lentils, chickpeas, or a plant-based ground substitute, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

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