CHICKEN AND SAUSAGE STEW

Chicken and Sausage Stew is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for those chilly days when you need something warm and satisfying. This stew brings together tender chicken, smoky sausage, and a medley of vegetables, all simmered in a rich, flavorful broth. The combination of juicy chicken and spicy sausage creates a robust flavor profile that’s both filling and delicious. Easy to prepare and packed with wholesome ingredients, this stew is perfect for a cozy family dinner, served with crusty bread to soak up all the delicious juices. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight meal or a relaxed weekend gathering, Chicken and Sausage Stew is sure to be a hit.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 pound smoked sausage, sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 cups baby potatoes, halved or quartered
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Brown the sausage: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
2. Cook the chicken: In the same pot, add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside with the sausage.
3. Sauté the vegetables: Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and red bell pepper to the pot. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
4. Add the tomatoes and spices: Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, thyme, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Return the chicken and sausage: Add the browned chicken, sausage, and potatoes to the pot. Stir to combine, then cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let the stew simmer gently for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.
6. Garnish and serve: Remove the bay leaf and discard. Stir in the fresh parsley, then ladle the stew into bowls and serve hot with crusty bread or over rice.

Chicken and Sausage Stew is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s sure to warm you up on a cold day. With its rich broth, tender meat, and hearty vegetables, this stew is a satisfying meal that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends.