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Alabama Chicken Stew

Alabama Chicken Stew

Alabama Chicken Stew is a hearty, flavorful Southern-inspired one-pot meal featuring tender chicken thighs, vibrant vegetables, and a rich spiced broth. Ready in under 30 minutes, this comforting stew combines protein, veggies, and broth into a wholesome dish perfect for quick dinners or cozy weekends.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Aromatics

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Vegetables

  • 2 bell peppers, sliced
  • 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into bite-sized chunks
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (or 2 cups fresh diced tomatoes)

Liquids and Spices

  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Fresh Herbs

  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley or thyme, chopped

Optional Add-ins (Variations)

  • Olive oil for sautéing (about 2 tbsp)
  • Jalapeños for extra spice
  • Smoked sausage (sliced) for smoky flavor
  • Heavy cream or coconut milk (¼ cup) for creaminess
  • Cauliflower florets to replace potatoes for low-carb

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and slice the bell peppers and potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Trim and cut chicken thighs into even chunks for uniform cooking.
  2. Sauté Aromatics and Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic and cook until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Add the chicken chunks, season with salt, black pepper, and paprika, and brown the chicken pieces, turning occasionally, until lightly browned and sealed, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add Vegetables and Broth: Stir in the sliced bell peppers, diced tomatoes, and potato chunks. Pour in the chicken broth and stir gently to evenly combine all ingredients.
  4. Simmer Until Tender: Bring the stew to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and flavors meld together.
  5. Final Seasoning and Herbs: Taste the stew and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or cayenne pepper for desired spice level. Just before serving, stir in freshly chopped parsley or thyme to brighten the dish.

Notes

  • Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier, more tender meat.
  • Brown the chicken well to add depth and richer flavor.
  • Stir occasionally but gently to keep potatoes intact.
  • Add fresh herbs last to preserve aroma and freshness.
  • For thicker stew, mash some potatoes against the pot’s side before serving.
  • Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator up to 3 days; flavors improve after resting overnight.
  • Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
  • Reheat gently over low heat, adding broth or water if needed to adjust thickness.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop Cooking
  • Cuisine: Southern
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1.5 cups
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 700mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: Alabama chicken stew, Southern chicken stew, quick chicken stew, one pot meal, chicken and vegetables stew, comforting Southern recipe