Lemon Garlic Chicken Stew

Some recipes become regulars in your kitchen because they're fancy.

This isn't one of them.

This recipe earns its spot because it's simple, comforting, and packed with wholesome ingredients that make you feel good after eating them. Tender chicken, vegetables, garlic, fresh lemon, and herbs come together in one pot for a meal that's perfect on a chilly evening—or anytime you need a nourishing dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.

I love recipes like this because they're easy enough for a busy weeknight but taste like they've been simmering all afternoon.

Why You'll Love This Stew

This stew is loaded with lean protein, colorful vegetables, and bright lemon flavor that keeps it from feeling too heavy. The garlic and herbs create a rich, savory broth while the fresh lemon adds just the right amount of freshness.

It's naturally gluten-free (just be sure to use a gluten-free broth), reheats beautifully, and is even better the next day.

If you're someone who likes to meal prep, this recipe should absolutely make the rotation.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons avocado oil or olive oil

• 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

• Sea salt and black pepper, to taste

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 3 carrots, sliced

• 2 celery stalks, sliced

• 2 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, diced

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• ½ teaspoon dried oregano

• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth

• Juice of 1 large lemon

• Zest of 1 lemon

• 2 cups baby spinach

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Directions:

1. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium heat.

2. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then cook until lightly browned, about 5–6 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.

3. Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.

4. Add the potatoes, thyme, oregano, chicken broth, lemon zest, and browned chicken. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the chicken is fully cooked.

5. Stir in the fresh lemon juice and baby spinach. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until the spinach wilts.

6. Finish with fresh parsley before serving.

Easy Ways to Customize It

This stew is incredibly forgiving.

Swap the potatoes for sweet potatoes if you prefer a little more natural sweetness. Add zucchini, green beans, or peas if you have vegetables that need to be used up. If you enjoy extra herbs, fresh rosemary or dill also pair beautifully with the lemon.

For a heartier meal, serve it with cooked brown rice or quinoa.

Why Garlic and Lemon Work So Well Together

Garlic and lemon are one of my favorite flavor combinations because they make simple ingredients taste fresh and vibrant.

Garlic adds rich, savory depth, while lemon brightens the broth and balances the flavors without making the stew feel heavy.

Sometimes the simplest ingredients really are the best.

💡 Dr. Stephanie's Tip: One of the easiest ways to make healthy eating sustainable is to cook once and enjoy it twice.

Make a double batch of soup or stew, then refrigerate or freeze individual portions for busy days. Having a nourishing meal ready to go makes it much easier to skip takeout when life gets hectic.

A Simple Meal the Whole Family Will Enjoy

Healthy meals don't have to be complicated.

This Lemon Garlic Chicken Stew is proof that a handful of wholesome ingredients can create a comforting meal that's full of flavor, easy to prepare, and perfect for leftovers.

Whether you're feeding your family or stocking your freezer with healthy meals, this recipe is one you'll come back to again and again.

Looking for More Comfort Food Recipes?

If you love nourishing meals made with real ingredients, you'll love my cookbook, Allergy-Free Tastes Good to Me. It features an entire chapter dedicated to soups and stews, along with dozens of gluten-free, family-friendly recipes that make healthy eating simple and delicious.

Whether you're cooking for a busy weeknight or stocking your freezer with comforting meals, you'll find plenty of inspiration inside.

Grab your copy today and discover your next favorite recipe.