Description
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Stew is a creamy, comforting dish made with tender chicken, smoked turkey bacon, and shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal) simmered in a silky, flavorful broth. With a blend of savory smoked turkey bacon, fresh garlic, herbs, and a touch of apple cider vinegar, it delivers warmth and richness perfect for chilly days or family dinners. Quick to prepare and easily customizable, this stew offers a wholesome, cheesy, and cozy meal everyone will love.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein
- 1 lb tender chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 slices smoked turkey bacon
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 3 fresh garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
- 2 medium carrots, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tsp dried thyme or 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
Liquids and Dairy
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or plant-based cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
Seasonings
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare and Sauté the Aromatics: Finely chop garlic, celery, and carrots. In a large pot over medium heat, cook the smoked turkey bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside. Using the rendered fat, sauté the chopped garlic, celery, and carrots until fragrant and softened, about 5 minutes.
- Brown the Chicken: Season the bite-sized chicken pieces lightly with salt and pepper. Add them to the pot with the vegetables and cook until golden brown on all sides, ensuring the chicken locks in its juices.
- Build the Broth: Pour in the chicken broth along with a splash of apple cider vinegar. Stir in thyme and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow the flavors to meld together for about 10 minutes.
- Add Cream and Cheese: Lower the heat to prevent boiling. Stir in the heavy cream or plant-based cream slowly, followed by the shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal). Mix gently until the stew becomes creamy and rich in texture.
- Finish and Serve: Return the crispy smoked turkey bacon to the pot. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top and serve the stew hot.
Notes
- Use fresh garlic and herbs for the best flavor quality.
- Cooking bacon first adds a smoky depth to the stew through the rendered fat.
- Simmer gently after adding cream to prevent curdling and maintain smooth texture.
- Cut chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking and tenderness.
- Adjust thickness by adding extra broth to thin or cooking uncovered to thicken.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Stew, creamy chicken stew, comfort food, smoked turkey bacon stew, easy chicken stew, cozy dinner