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Alabama Chicken Stew

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Alabama Chicken Stew is a hearty, Southern classic featuring tender chicken, tomatoes, corn, and potatoes in a rich, flavorful broth. It’s soul-warming comfort food made for gatherings, cool weather, and second helpings.

Ingredients

  • Bone-In Chicken Thighs or Legs: 3 pounds – provides juicy meat and flavorful broth.
  • Russet Potatoes: 3 large, peeled and diced – starchy and soft, thickens naturally.
  • Yellow Onion: 2 medium, chopped – builds savory depth.
  • Whole Kernel Corn: 1½ cups (or 1 can, drained) – sweetens and adds texture.
  • Crushed Tomatoes: 28 ounces – creates a rich, tangy base.
  • Tomato Sauce: 15 ounces – deepens the tomato flavor.
  • Chicken Broth: 4 cups – savory liquid foundation.
  • Sugar: 1 tablespoon – balances the acidity and enhances sweetness.
  • Hot Sauce: 2 teaspoons – adds gentle Southern heat.
  • Salt & Black Pepper: to taste – essential for balance.
  • Bay Leaves: 2 – infuses herbal earthiness.
  • Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon – for extra savory depth.
  • Red Pepper Flakes (optional): ½ teaspoon – if you want a little more kick.

Instructions

  1. Preheat Your Equipment: Heat a large Dutch oven or stockpot over medium heat.
  2. Combine Ingredients: Add chicken pieces and cover with broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 30–40 minutes until chicken is tender and falling off the bone.
  3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Remove chicken, set aside to cool slightly, and shred with forks. Discard skin and bones. Return shredded chicken to pot.
  4. Assemble the Dish: Stir in diced potatoes, onions, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, corn, garlic powder, bay leaves, sugar, salt, pepper, and hot sauce.
  5. Cook to Perfection: Simmer uncovered on low heat for 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are soft and stew thickens.
  6. Finishing Touches: Remove bay leaves. Taste and adjust seasoning. Add red pepper flakes if desired.
  7. Serve and Enjoy: Ladle into bowls and serve with saltines, cornbread, or white bread on the side.

Notes

  • Use bone-in chicken for maximum flavor in the broth.
  • Add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice at the end for brightness.
  • Let the stew rest before serving for deeper flavor.
  • Store leftovers in the fridge or freezer—it’s even better the next day.