This vibrant Chicken and Green Pea Stew is a wholesome, protein-packed meal that combines tender chicken, nutrient-rich peas, and colorful vegetables for a satisfying, low-carb dish.
Rich in fiber and good fats, it’s light yet nourishing, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Quick to prepare and naturally flavorful, it’s a healthy family favorite.
Chicken and Sweet Green Pea Stew
Equipment
- Large cooking pan or skillet – 1
- Knife (1)
- Cutting Board (1)
- Measuring Cups (1 set)
- Measuring Spoons (1 set)
- Stirring spoon (1)
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts boneless
- 1 medium onion peeled and chopped
- 2 cups frozen green peas
- 2 medium carrots peeled and sliced
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 3 cups chicken stock
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill chopped
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
Instructions
- Prepare Vegetables: Peel the onion and carrots carefully, then chop the onion into small, even pieces to ensure they cook evenly. Slice the carrots into thin rounds or small cubes for a tender bite. Mince the garlic cloves finely so they release their aroma during cooking. Keeping the vegetables uniform in size ensures a harmonious texture in the stew.
- Cut and Season Chicken: Trim any excess fat from the chicken breasts and cut them into bite-sized chunks, roughly 1 to 1.5 inches each. Place the chicken in a bowl, sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper, and toss to coat evenly. Proper seasoning at this stage helps build a flavorful base for the entire dish.
- Sear Chicken: Heat half of the cooking oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces in a single layer without crowding the pan. Sear the chicken on each side for 2–3 minutes until the exterior is lightly golden and no longer pink in the center. This step locks in juices and adds depth to the flavor. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside on a plate while you prepare the vegetables.
- Sauté Onions: In the same pan, pour in the remaining oil. Add the chopped onions and stir frequently, cooking until they become soft, translucent, and slightly golden at the edges. This caramelization process enhances the natural sweetness of the onions and adds richness to the stew.
- Add Garlic and Carrots: Once the onions are ready, add the minced garlic and sliced carrots to the pan. Stir continuously for 1–2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned, which prevents a bitter taste. Combining these vegetables at this stage ensures they absorb the flavors of the oil and onions.
- Combine Chicken and Peas: Return the seared chicken to the pan, then add the frozen green peas. Stir everything together gently to distribute the ingredients evenly, ensuring the peas thaw slightly before simmering. This step blends the proteins and vegetables, preparing them for the flavorful broth.
- Add Stock and Simmer: Pour in the chicken stock carefully, ensuring it covers the ingredients. Give the stew a gentle stir, then cover the pan with a lid. Reduce the heat to medium-low and allow the mixture to simmer for 15–20 minutes. Check occasionally to make sure the vegetables are tender and the chicken is fully cooked. Simmering allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich, comforting stew.
- Incorporate Tomato Paste: Once the chicken and vegetables are tender, stir in the tomato paste thoroughly. This adds a subtle sweetness and a hint of acidity that balances the flavors while enriching the color of the stew. Taste the stew and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the pan from the heat and sprinkle the chopped fresh dill over the top. Dill adds a bright, herbaceous note that complements the savory ingredients. Serve the stew immediately while hot, either on its own or alongside a light grain or bread. Enjoy the vibrant colors, comforting aroma, and satisfying taste of this wholesome dish.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen peas depending on convenience; both work well without compromising flavor.
- Cutting chicken into uniform pieces ensures even cooking and a tender texture.
- Sautéing onions until golden enhances sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Adjust salt and pepper at the end to suit your taste.
- Fresh dill provides a bright herbal finish—avoid substituting with dried unless necessary.
- This stew is naturally low in saturated fat and high in protein, making it ideal for healthy, balanced meals.
- Tomato paste adds subtle acidity and richness; do not skip for authentic flavor.
Chef’s Secrets For Flavorful Stew
The secret to an unforgettable Chicken and Green Pea Stew lies in layering flavors.
Start by searing the chicken to lock in juices and create a golden crust, which adds richness to the broth.
Cooking onions slowly until golden releases natural sweetness, while adding garlic later prevents bitterness.
Using fresh dill at the end brightens the dish, providing a delicate herbal note that balances the savory elements.
Additionally, letting the stew simmer gently allows the vegetables and chicken to meld perfectly, creating a comforting, flavorful harmony in every bite.
Serving Suggestions To Impress Everyone
Serve this stew hot for maximum flavor and aroma.
Pair it with steamed rice, quinoa, or rustic bread to soak up the flavorful broth.
A light green salad on the side enhances the meal’s freshness and adds a crisp texture.
For a low-carb option, enjoy it on its own or with cauliflower rice.
Garnish generously with fresh dill and a wedge of lemon to elevate presentation and add a subtle, zesty contrast.
Storage Tips For Maximum Freshness
This stew keeps well and is perfect for meal prep.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to preserve the chicken’s tenderness and prevent the peas from becoming mushy.
For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Avoid reheating on high heat, as it may dry out the chicken and alter the texture of the vegetables.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other vegetables in this stew?
Absolutely! You can substitute or add vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans.
Just ensure they are cut into uniform pieces so they cook evenly.
2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully and add extra juiciness.
Reduce cooking time slightly if they are boneless, or simmer longer if using bone-in pieces.
3. Is this stew suitable for meal prep?
Definitely. It stores well in the fridge for 2–3 days and can be frozen in individual portions for up to 2 months, making it an ideal make-ahead meal.
4. Can I make this stew without tomato paste?
You can, but tomato paste enhances color, richness, and a subtle acidity that balances flavors.
If needed, a small amount of canned tomato puree can work as a substitute.
5. How can I make this stew more flavorful?
Use homemade or high-quality chicken stock, sear the chicken well, and allow a gentle simmer to meld flavors.
Adding a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of smoked paprika can also enhance depth and complexity.
