One Pot Chicken Stew: Easy, Healthy, and Packed with Flavor

One Pot Chicken Stew is my go-to recipe for delicious comfort food without the hassle. This hearty dish comes together in just 50 minutes and delivers rich, satisfying flavors every single time. It’s the ultimate one-pot solution that saves you time on prep and cleanup, while still packing a ton of flavor into every bite.

I first discovered this shortcut when I needed a quick dinner option after a long day. Traditional homemade chicken stew recipes can take hours of simmering, but this method? You’ll have tender chicken and melt-in-your-mouth veggies on the table in under an hour. Trust me, you’ll love how effortless and tasty this easy chicken stew is—let’s get started.

Why This One Pot Chicken Stew Is a Game-Changer

• Minimal cleanup: Everything cooks in one pot, so you’ll spend less time at the sink.
• Quick cooking: Ready in 50 minutes compared to the usual 2-3 hours of traditional stews.
• Hands-off time: Once it simmers, you can step away and let it do its thing.
• Big on flavor: The Herbes de Provence and simmered veggies infuse every bite.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make a batch and reheat for quick lunches or dinners.

Equipment You’ll Need for This One Pot Chicken Stew

To make this healthy one-pot meal, you only need a Dutch oven or a sturdy large pot. Here are a few tips for getting the best results:

• Choose a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven with a lid for even heat distribution.
• If you don’t have a Dutch oven, a large soup pot with a lid works just as well.
• A sturdy wooden spoon or silicone spatula is perfect for stirring and scraping up the flavorful bits at the bottom of the pot.

Don’t overthink the gear—this recipe is about simplicity and working with what you’ve got.

Simple Ingredients for One Pot Chicken Stew

This recipe uses common pantry and fridge staples to keep things easy. Here’s the lowdown on a few key ingredients:

• Chicken thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs keep things juicy and flavorful. Chicken breast can work too, but thighs are harder to overcook.
• Potatoes: Baby potatoes or skin-on cubed potatoes save peeling time and add texture.
• Herbes de Provence: This fragrant blend of dried herbs gives the stew its depth of flavor. Can’t find it? Italian seasoning works as a substitute.
• Vegetable add-ins: Carrots, mushrooms, and bell peppers add color and nutrients. Feel free to use frozen veggies if you’re in a pinch.

Shopping tip: Pre-chopped onions and carrots are your best friend here—no judgment if you grab a bag to save even more time!

One Pot Chicken Stew Recipe Details

• Servings: 3 servings
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 35 minutes
• Total time: 50 minutes

Complete Ingredients List

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 3 (5 ounce) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized cubes
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups water
• 3 cups skin-on cubed potatoes
• 1 cup diced carrot
• 1 tablespoon chicken soup base
• 1 tablespoon Herbes de Provence
• 1 cup chopped button mushrooms
• 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper

Step-by-Step One Pot Chicken Stew Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a Dutch oven or large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chicken and chopped onion, and stir frequently. Cook until the chicken is lightly browned and the onion has softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the chicken and onion mixture, stirring to coat everything evenly. Cook for 2-3 minutes to get rid of the raw flour taste.
4. Pour in the water, then add the potatoes, carrots, chicken soup base, and Herbes de Provence. Stir to combine, bring to a simmer, cover, and let cook for 15-20 minutes.
5. Uncover and add the mushrooms and bell peppers. Continue simmering until the veggies are tender, about another 10-15 minutes.
6. Give the stew a final stir, adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed, and serve hot.

Jake’s Tips for the Best One Pot Chicken Stew

• Pre-chop for speed: Cut your veggies the night before and refrigerate them for faster prep.
• Stock swap: Use chicken stock instead of water and chicken soup base for a richer flavor.
• Thicken it up: If you like a thicker stew, mash some of the potatoes into the broth before serving.
• Meal prep hero: This stew stores beautifully—reheat in a pot over medium heat or microwave until warm.
• Freezer-friendly: Freeze portions in individual containers for up to 3 months.

Easy One Pot Chicken Stew Variations

• Creamy twist: Stir in half a cup of heavy cream or coconut milk during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
• Sneaky greens: Add a handful of spinach or kale during the last few minutes for an extra veggie boost.
• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or a splash of hot sauce for heat.
• Fridge-cleanout: Toss in any veggie odds and ends you have—zucchini, parsnips, or even frozen peas work well.

One Pot Chicken Stew FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breast, but keep an eye on the cooking time since breast meat is leaner and can dry out faster.

What if I don’t have Herbes de Provence?

No problem! Use Italian seasoning or a mix of thyme, rosemary, and oregano to achieve a similar flavor profile.

Can this be made in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Brown the chicken and onion first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

How do I store leftovers?

Store cooled stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free alternative like cornstarch or rice flour.

This One Pot Chicken Stew is the no-fuss recipe you’ll turn to on busy nights. With its hearty flavor and simple prep, it’s bound to become a family favorite. What shortcuts make your life easier? Share your tips in the comments below!