Description

Hearty, comforting, and full of rich flavor, this One-Pot Irish Chicken Stew is a cozy meal that’s easy to make and perfect for chilly days. Tender chicken, creamy potatoes, and sweet carrots are simmered in a savory broth with traditional herbs for a wholesome, satisfying dish. Everything cooks together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze and the flavor unbeatable!

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Ingredients

Scale

2 tbsp olive oil
1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 large yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 large carrots, peeled and cut into rounds
4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced (Yukon Gold or russets work great)
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup water
2 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
2 bay leaves
1 cup frozen peas
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Add-ins:

1 cup chopped cabbage for a more traditional Irish touch
½ cup diced celery
1 tsp paprika for a little extra flavor depth

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Instructions

Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
Season the chicken chunks with salt and pepper.
Add chicken to the pot and sear for 3–4 minutes until lightly browned (they don’t need to cook through yet).
Remove the chicken and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, add diced onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Stew
Add the carrots and potatoes to the pot.
Return the chicken to the pot along with any juices.
Pour in the chicken broth and water.
Stir in the thyme and add bay leaves.

Step 4: Simmer
Bring the stew to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.
Cover and simmer for 30–35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

Step 5: Finish the Stew
Remove the bay leaves.
Stir in the frozen peas and cook for another 2–3 minutes.
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 6: Serve
Ladle the stew into bowls.
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve hot with crusty bread or soda bread on the side.

Notes

Brown the Chicken First – Adds extra flavor to the stew base.
Cut Veggies Evenly – Ensures even cooking.
Simmer Gently – Keeps the chicken tender and juicy.
Don’t Skip the Herbs – Thyme and bay leaves give the stew its signature comforting flavor.
Thicken if Desired – Mash a few potatoes into the broth for a thicker stew.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Cuisine: Irish / Comfort Food