This quick chicken and kale stew recipe is a hearty and nutritious meal that's perfect for cold days. It's packed with tender chicken, hearty potatoes, and vibrant kale, all simmered together in a savory broth for a comforting and satisfying dish.
Most of the ingredients needed for this recipe are common pantry staples. However, you may need to pick up lacinato kale and red potatoes from the supermarket if they're not already in your kitchen. Lacinato kale, also known as dinosaur kale or Tuscan kale, has a slightly sweeter and more delicate flavor than other types of kale. Red potatoes are chosen for their waxy texture and ability to hold their shape during cooking.
Ingredients for Quick Chicken and Kale Stew
Bay leaves: Used to give a depth of flavor to the stew.
Rosemary: This aromatic herb brings out the flavor of the chicken.
Thyme: Adds a subtle earthiness to the stew.
Sage: Complements the other herbs and lends a unique taste.
Chicken thighs: This cut of meat is flavorful and stays tender when cooked.
Kosher salt: For seasoning the chicken and stew.
Olive oil: Used for browning the chicken and sautéing the vegetables.
Butter: Adds richness to the stew.
Onion: Provides a sweet, caramel-like flavor when sautéed.
Carrots: Give a hint of sweetness and color to the stew.
Garlic: Enhances the flavor of the stew.
Red pepper flakes: Adds a little kick to the stew, but can be omitted if you prefer less heat.
All-purpose flour: Helps to thicken the stew.
Dry white wine: Deglazes the pan and adds acidity to balance the flavors.
Chicken stock: This forms the base of the stew.
Red potato: Adds a hearty element to the stew.
Lacinato kale: This type of kale adds a punch of nutrition and color.
Black pepper: For seasoning the stew.
Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor when sprinkled on top.
One reader, Jandy Joyce says:
This quick chicken and kale stew recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and comforting, and the recipe is so easy to follow. The combination of tender chicken, hearty potatoes, and nutritious kale is simply delightful. It's become a family favorite in no time!
Techniques Required for Making Quick Chicken and Kale Stew
How to tie a bouquet garni: Stack the bay leaves, rosemary, thyme, and sage on top of one another. Tie a 3-inch length of butcher’s twine around the center of herbs and secure with a knot. Set aside.
How to cook the chicken: Season the chicken all over with about 1 teaspoon salt. In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the chicken and cook for 1 to 2 minutes on one side, until golden brown and crispy. Flip and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
How to prepare the vegetables: Reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining tablespoon of oil if the pot looks dry. Melt the butter until just bubbling. Add the onion and carrots and season with ½ teaspoon salt. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally until the onion is translucent and carrot is beginning to soften. Stir in the garlic and red pepper flakes, if using.
How to make the roux: Add the flour and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until the vegetables are well-coated and the flour is lightly toasted, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
How to deglaze the pan: Deglaze the pan with the wine, scraping up any browned bits on the bottom of the pan.
How to simmer the stew: Add the chicken stock, bouquet garni, 2 to 3 teaspoons of salt, and the potatoes. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 20 to 25 minutes, until the potatoes are tender.
How to finish the stew: Return the chicken to the pot, along with the kale. Season the stew with more salt to taste and the black pepper. Cook until the chicken is warmed through and the kale is just wilted and tender, and the chicken is cooked through about 2 to 3 minutes.
How to serve: Ladle the stew into bowls and top with freshly grated parmesan cheese and more red pepper flakes. Serve warm.
How To Make Chicken And Kale Stew
Make a kale stew with tender and umami-rich chicken meat and creamy, thick consistency of soup. This flavorful stew dish only took 1 hour to make.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 3bay leaves,fresh
- 2rosemary,fresh, sprigs
- 4thyme,fresh, sprigs
- 1largesage,fresh, sprig
- 1lbchicken thighs,cut into 1½ in 3 cm pieces
- 3½tspkosher salt,divided
- 2tbspolive oil,divided
- 2tbspbutter,unsalted
- 1onion,white, thinly sliced
- 3mediumcarrots,cut into ½ 1¼ cm in rounds
- 3largecloves garlic,smashed
- ¼tspred pepper flakes,optional, plus more for serving
- ¼cupall-purpose flour
- ½cupdry white wine,such as sauvignon blanc
- 6cupschicken stock,low sodium
- 2½cupsred potato,small, quartered
- 1lacinato kale,bunch, stemmed and torn into 2 in, 5 cm pieces
- ½tspblack pepper,freshly ground, plus more to taste
- parmesan cheese,freshly grated, for serving
Instructions
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Stack the bay leaves, rosemary, thyme, and sage on top of one another. Tie a 3-inch length of butcher’s twine around the center of herbs and secure with a knot. Set aside.
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Season the chicken all over with about 1 teaspoon salt.
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In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the chicken and cook for 1 to 2 minutes on one side, until golden brown and crispy.
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Flip and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
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Reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining tablespoon of oil if the pot looks dry. Melt the butter until just bubbling.
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Add the onion and carrots and season with ½ teaspoon salt. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally until the onion is translucent and carrot is beginning to soften.
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Stir in the garlic and red pepper flakes, if using. Add the flour and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until the vegetables are well-coated and the flour is lightly toasted, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
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Deglaze the pan with the wine, scraping up any browned bits on the bottom of the pan.
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Add the chicken stock, bouquet garni, 2 to 3 teaspoons of salt, and the potatoes. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring to a boil.
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Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 20 to 25 minutes, until the potatoes are tender.
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Return the chicken to the pot, along with the kale. Season the stew with more salt to taste and the black pepper.
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Cook until the chicken is warmed through and the kale is just wilted and tender, and the chicken is cooked through about 2 to 3 minutes.
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Ladle the stew into bowls and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and more red pepper flakes. Serve warm.
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Enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 1282.70kcal
- Fat: 87.18g
- Saturated Fat: 24.48g
- Trans Fat: 0.54g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 37.21g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 17.07g
- Carbohydrates: 32.91g
- Fiber: 3.93g
- Sugar: 7.68g
- Protein: 84.60g
- Cholesterol: 461.90mg
- Sodium: 1852.57mg
- Calcium: 119.46mg
- Potassium: 1759.01mg
- Iron: 5.50mg
- Vitamin A: 514.05µg
- Vitamin C: 40.49mg
Expert Technique Tip for Enhancing Quick Chicken and Kale Stew
When making this chicken and kale stew, it's important to properly brown the chicken before removing it from the pot. This process, known as searing, not only gives the chicken a flavorful crust, but also leaves behind browned bits on the bottom of the pot that greatly enhance the flavor of the stew. To achieve a good sear, make sure the pot is hot enough before adding the chicken. The chicken should sizzle immediately upon contact. Also, avoid overcrowding the pot, as this can cause the chicken to steam rather than sear.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Stew Recipe
Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and herbs in advance to save time during the cooking process.
Use pre-cut ingredients: Consider using pre-cut vegetables and pre-trimmed chicken to minimize prep time.
One-pot cooking: Opt for recipes that allow you to cook everything in one pot to reduce cleanup time.
Organize ingredients: Arrange all ingredients and utensils in an organized manner before starting to cook for a smoother process.
Quick cooking methods: Utilize quick cooking methods such as pressure cooking or stir-frying for faster results.
Efficient multitasking: Plan and execute tasks in a way that allows you to multitask efficiently, saving time in the kitchen.
Opt for simple recipes: Choose recipes with minimal ingredients and straightforward cooking techniques for a time-efficient meal preparation.
Prep shortcuts: Utilize time-saving kitchen gadgets and tools for tasks like peeling, slicing, and chopping.
Substitute Ingredients For Quick Chicken And Kale Stew Recipe
bay leaves - Substitute with dried basil: Dried basil can provide a similar earthy and slightly minty flavor to the dish, adding depth and complexity to the stew.
rosemary - Substitute with thyme: Thyme can be used as a substitute for rosemary, as it offers a similar earthy and slightly floral flavor that complements the other ingredients in the stew.
thyme - Substitute with oregano: Oregano can be used as a substitute for thyme, providing a slightly peppery and robust flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients in the stew.
sage - Substitute with marjoram: Marjoram can be used as a substitute for sage, offering a slightly sweeter and more delicate flavor that complements the chicken and vegetables in the stew.
chicken thighs - Substitute with turkey thighs: Turkey thighs can be used as a substitute for chicken thighs, providing a similar rich and juicy texture, while adding a slightly different flavor to the stew.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for kosher salt, providing a similar level of salinity and enhancing the overall flavor of the stew.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil can be used as a substitute for olive oil, offering a mild and buttery flavor that complements the other ingredients in the stew.
butter - Substitute with ghee: Ghee can be used as a substitute for butter, providing a rich and nutty flavor that adds depth to the stew.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can be used as a substitute for onions, offering a milder and slightly sweeter flavor that complements the other ingredients in the stew.
carrots - Substitute with butternut squash: Butternut squash can be used as a substitute for carrots, providing a slightly sweet and nutty flavor that adds richness to the stew.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can be used as a substitute for garlic, offering a milder and slightly sweeter flavor that complements the other ingredients in the stew.
red pepper flakes - Substitute with paprika: Paprika can be used as a substitute for red pepper flakes, providing a mild and slightly smoky flavor that adds warmth to the stew.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch can be used as a substitute for all-purpose flour, providing a similar thickening agent for the stew.
dry white wine - Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth can be used as a substitute for dry white wine, adding depth and flavor to the stew.
chicken stock - Substitute with vegetable stock: Vegetable stock can be used as a substitute for chicken stock, providing a similar savory base for the stew.
red potato - Substitute with sweet potato: Sweet potatoes can be used as a substitute for red potatoes, offering a slightly sweeter and creamier texture to the stew.
lacinato kale - Substitute with Swiss chard: Swiss chard can be used as a substitute for lacinato kale, providing a similar hearty and slightly earthy flavor to the stew.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino cheese: Pecorino cheese can be used as a substitute for parmesan, offering a slightly sharper and saltier flavor to the stew.
Presentation Tips for a Delightful Chicken and Kale Stew
Elevate the dish with a stunning plating: When presenting the stew, carefully arrange the chicken, kale, and potatoes in a visually appealing manner. Use fresh herbs and edible flowers to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Incorporate elegant serving vessels: Serve the stew in porcelain bowls or copper pots to add a touch of sophistication to the presentation. The choice of serving vessel can enhance the overall dining experience.
Garnish with precision: Sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese and a pinch of red pepper flakes over the stew with precision. This not only adds flavor but also creates a visually striking presentation.
Highlight the ingredients: Showcase the vibrant colors and textures of the stew by layering the ingredients thoughtfully. This will allow the diners to appreciate the individual components of the dish.
Create a harmonious balance: Pay attention to the balance of the stew on the plate. Ensure that the chicken, kale, and potatoes are proportionally distributed, creating a visually appealing and balanced presentation.
Emphasize the aroma: Just before serving, uncover the stew at the table to allow the aromatic steam to rise, tantalizing the senses of the diners and creating an immersive dining experience.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making This Stew
- Cutting board: A flat surface used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
- Chef's knife: A versatile kitchen knife used for a variety of tasks such as chopping, slicing, and dicing.
- Large, heavy-bottomed pot: A pot with a thick base to ensure even heat distribution and prevent burning.
- Butcher’s twine: Strong twine used for trussing meats and securing herbs for bouquet garni.
- Tongs: Used for flipping and turning ingredients while cooking.
- Wooden spoon: A kitchen utensil used for stirring and mixing ingredients.
- Ladle: A deep-bowled spoon with a long handle, used for serving soups and stews.
- Grater: A tool used to grate ingredients such as cheese or vegetables.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Used for accurately measuring ingredients for the recipe.
- Potato peeler: A tool used to peel the skin off potatoes and other vegetables.
- Heavy-duty Dutch oven: A large, heavy-duty pot with a tight-fitting lid, suitable for braising, stewing, and slow-cooking.
- Colander: A bowl-shaped kitchen utensil with perforations used to drain liquids from food.
- Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a long handle and a lid, used for cooking sauces and other liquids.
- Grater: A kitchen tool used to grate ingredients such as cheese, vegetables, or spices.
- Mixing bowl: A bowl used for mixing and combining ingredients.
- Whisk: A kitchen utensil used for whipping and mixing ingredients together.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Quick Chicken and Kale Stew
- Allow the stew to cool completely before storing or freezing.
- For storing in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled stew to an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 4 days in the fridge.
- To freeze the stew, follow these steps:
- Portion the cooled stew into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion during freezing.
- If using freezer bags, remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Place the containers or bags in the freezer, laying them flat for even freezing and to save space.
- The chicken and kale stew can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- To reheat the frozen stew, follow these methods:
- Thaw the frozen stew overnight in the refrigerator.
- Transfer the thawed stew to a pot and reheat it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature.
- Alternatively, you can reheat the frozen stew directly in the pot over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. This method may take longer, but it eliminates the need for thawing.
- If the reheated stew appears too thick, add a splash of chicken stock or water to achieve the desired consistency.
- Taste the reheated stew and adjust the seasoning if needed, as flavors may mellow during storage.
How To Reheat Leftover Chicken and Kale Stew
Reheat the quick chicken and kale stew in a large pot over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. This method ensures even heating and prevents the chicken and vegetables from becoming overcooked or mushy.
If you're short on time, you can reheat individual portions of the stew in the microwave. Place the desired amount in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until heated through.
For a crispy twist, reheat the stew in a covered oven-safe dish at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the cover and sprinkle some extra parmesan cheese on top, then broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
If the stew has thickened too much during storage, add a splash of chicken stock or water while reheating to help loosen it up and restore its original consistency.
To maintain the vibrant color and texture of the kale, add it to the reheated stew just before serving. This will prevent the kale from becoming overcooked and mushy.
Interesting Trivia About Chicken and Kale Stew
The recipe includes kale, a leafy green vegetable packed with nutrients like vitamins A, C, and K.
Is Making This Stew Recipe Budget-Friendly?
The cost-effectiveness of this chicken and kale stew recipe is quite high. The ingredients, such as chicken thighs, kale, and potatoes, are relatively affordable and readily available. The use of simple herbs and spices enhances the flavor without adding significant cost. With an approximate cost of $20, this hearty stew can feed a household of four, making it a budget-friendly and satisfying meal. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its affordability, nutritional value, and delicious taste.
Is This Chicken and Kale Stew Healthy?
This chicken and kale stew recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it includes nutrient-dense ingredients like chicken thighs, kale, onions, carrots, and garlic. Kale is particularly beneficial, as it's packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The use of herbs like bay leaves, rosemary, thyme, and sage adds flavor without increasing calorie content. However, the recipe also contains some less healthy components, such as butter, all-purpose flour, and a relatively high amount of salt. The parmesan cheese topping also adds additional fat and sodium to the dish.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Replace the all-purpose flour with a whole grain alternative, such as whole wheat flour or almond flour, to increase fiber content
- Reduce the amount of butter used, or substitute it with a healthier fat like olive oil
- Use low-sodium chicken stock to decrease the overall sodium content of the dish
- Increase the proportion of vegetables, particularly kale, to boost the nutrient density of the stew
- Opt for a low-fat parmesan cheese or use it sparingly as a garnish
- Serve the stew with a side of quinoa or brown rice to add more fiber and complex carbohydrates to the meal
Editor's Opinion on This Delicious Chicken and Kale Stew
This quick chicken and kale stew recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The use of fresh herbs and the bouquet garni adds a depth of aroma and taste to the stew. The addition of white wine brings a subtle complexity to the dish, while the kale and potatoes provide a hearty and wholesome element. The use of chicken thighs ensures a tender and succulent protein, and the finishing touch of parmesan cheese adds a rich and savory note. Overall, this stew is a comforting and satisfying dish that is perfect for a cozy night in.
Enhance Your Quick Chicken And Kale Stew Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement Quick Chicken and Kale Stew
Why trust this Quick Chicken And Kale Stew Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a delicious and wholesome meal, featuring chicken thighs for succulent flavor and kale for added nutrition. The combination of rosemary, thyme, and sage creates a fragrant bouquet garni, infusing the stew with aromatic depth. The addition of dry white wine adds a touch of sophistication, while the use of red potatoes ensures a hearty and satisfying dish. Trust in the expertise behind this recipe to deliver a comforting and flavorful stew that will surely become a household favorite.
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