Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey that will transport you straight to the heart of Southern comfort cooking? This Chicken and Smoked Sausage Stew is not just a meal—it's a warm embrace in a bowl that promises to chase away any hunger or blues. Imagine tender chicken, smoky sausage, and a medley of colorful vegetables simmering together in a rich, flavorful broth that tells a story of tradition, love, and pure deliciousness. Whether you're a home cook looking to impress your family or a food enthusiast seeking a soul-warming dish, this recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 60 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound chicken thighs, diced
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by dicing chicken thighs into 1-inch cubes, slicing smoked sausage into half-moon shapes, chopping onion finely, and mincing garlic cloves.
- Heat olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to shimmer and become hot before adding ingredients.
- Add diced chicken thighs to the pot, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is lightly browned and begins to develop golden edges.
- Add sliced smoked sausage to the pot and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the sausage to release its smoky oils and develop a slight caramelization.
- Introduce chopped onions and minced garlic to the pot, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until onions become translucent and fragrant.
- Pour chicken broth into the pot, scraping the bottom to release any browned bits, which will enhance the stew's flavor profile.
- Add mixed vegetables to the stew, stirring to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Reduce heat to low-medium, cover the pot, and simmer for 35-40 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and chicken to become tender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed before serving.
- Serve hot in deep bowls, optionally garnishing with fresh chopped parsley or green onions for added freshness.
Tips
- Choose Quality Meats: Select bone-in chicken thighs for maximum flavor and tender meat. For the smoked sausage, opt for a high-quality brand that adds depth to your stew.
- Layering Flavors: The key to an exceptional stew is building flavors. Take your time browning the chicken and sausage to develop a rich, caramelized base.
- Don't Rush the Simmer: Low and slow is the mantra for this stew. Allow the ingredients to meld together, which helps tenderize the meat and intensify the overall taste.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to swap or add seasonal vegetables. Root vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes can add an extra dimension of flavor.
- Make Ahead Friendly: This stew tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to prepare it in advance. The flavors will continue to develop overnight.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve over rice, with crusty bread, or alongside cornbread to soak up the delicious broth.
- Storage Tip: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months for a quick future meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 110mg
