When the weather starts to turn chilly, there’s nothing quite like cozying up with a warm bowl of hearty Brunswick stew. This Southern classic is packed with flavor and wholesome ingredients that will surely satisfy your tastebuds. In this recipe, we’ll be making a delicious version of Brunswick stew with tender chicken as the star ingredient. So, gather your pots and pans, and let’s get cooking!
**Recipe for Brunswick Stew with Chicken**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup corn kernels
– 1 cup lima beans
– 1 cup chopped carrots
– 1 cup chopped potatoes
– ½ cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped parsley for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook Chicken:** Begin by cooking the chicken breasts. In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of oil and cook the chicken until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.
2. **Saute Onions and Garlic:** In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Saute until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
3. **Add Remaining Ingredients:** Return the chicken to the pot, then pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, corn, lima beans, carrots, potatoes, BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika.
4. **Simmer:** Bring the stew to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the stew simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.
5. **Shred Chicken:** Once the stew is done simmering, remove the chicken breasts from the pot and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the stew and stir to combine.
6. **Season and Garnish:** Taste the stew and season with salt and pepper according to your preference. Ladle the warm Brunswick stew into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of freshness.
7. **Serve and Enjoy:** Serve the Brunswick stew piping hot with a side of cornbread or a simple green salad for a complete and satisfying meal. This stew also pairs well with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese for extra indulgence.
Warm, comforting, and brimming with Southern flavors, this chicken Brunswick stew is the perfect dish to enjoy on a crisp evening or to serve at a gathering with friends and family. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead meal that tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. So, grab your largest pot and let the aroma of this delicious stew fill your home with love and warmth.