Stewed Chicken

Hearty Stewed Chicken

**Ingredients:**

* 1 (3-4 pound) whole chicken, cut into pieces

* 1 large onion, chopped

* 2 celery stalks, chopped

* 2 carrots, chopped

* 4 cloves garlic, minced

* 1 tablespoon olive oil

* 1 teaspoon dried thyme

* 1 teaspoon dried oregano

* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

* 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

* 4 cups chicken broth

* 1 cup dry white wine (optional)

* 1 bay leaf

* Salt to taste

**Instructions:**

1. **Brown the Chicken:**

* Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.

* Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper.

* Brown the chicken pieces on all sides until golden brown. Remove from the pot and set aside.

2. **Sauté the Vegetables:**

* In the same pot, add the onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

* Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, or until fragrant.

3. **Combine Ingredients and Simmer:**

* Return the browned chicken to the pot.

* Add the chicken broth, white wine (if using), thyme, oregano, red pepper flakes, bay leaf, and salt.

* Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1.5-2 hours, or until the chicken is tender and the sauce has thickened.

4. **Serve:**

* Remove the bay leaf before serving.

* Serve the stewed chicken over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes.

**Tips:**

* For a richer flavor, consider using a combination of chicken broth and beef broth.

* Add your favorite vegetables, such as potatoes, peas, or green beans, during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

* To make the stew even more flavorful, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard.

Enjoy your homemade stewed chicken!