Description
Alabama Chicken Stew is a hearty Southern comfort food featuring tender shredded chicken simmered with diced potatoes, corn, tomatoes, and a rich tomato-based broth. This warming stew offers a perfect balance of savory flavors and vegetables, ideal for family meals and gatherings.
Ingredients
Chicken and Broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 4 cups chicken broth
Vegetables
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
Seasonings and Others
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Aromatics: Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat to provide a flavorful base for the stew. Once melted, add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, releasing its natural sweetness.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in the diced potatoes, corn kernels, and diced tomatoes into the pot. This mix adds heartiness and freshness to the stew.
- Combine Broth and Tomato Paste: Pour in the chicken broth and add the tomato paste, stirring thoroughly to ensure the paste is well incorporated and the broth has a rich tomato flavor.
- Simmer Vegetables: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Allow it to cook for approximately 20 minutes, or until the potatoes become tender and the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Add Chicken and Season: Incorporate the shredded cooked chicken into the simmering stew. Sprinkle in paprika, black pepper, and salt to taste, adding depth and warmth to the dish.
- Final Simmer: Continue to simmer the stew for another 10 minutes to blend all flavors fully and ensure the chicken is heated through.
- Serve: Ladle the stew into bowls and serve warm, perfect for comforting meals any time of year.
Notes
- For a thicker stew, some versions include stirring in crushed crackers during the final simmer.
- This stew often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Stew
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern