Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the ultimate Southern comfort food that will transport you straight to the heart of home cooking! This Chicken Collard Greens Stew is more than just a meal - it's a warm hug in a bowl that combines tender, succulent chicken with nutrient-packed collard greens in a flavor-packed broth that will make your mouth water. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you're craving a hearty, soul-satisfying dish that connects you to the rich culinary traditions of the South.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 45 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 4 cups collard greens, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 lb of boneless, skinless chicken thighs, 4 cups of chopped collard greens, 1 diced onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 4 cups of chicken broth, 1 tsp of thyme, 1 tsp of paprika, and salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent.
- Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Next, add the boneless chicken thighs to the pot. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides.
- Pour in the 4 cups of chicken broth, making sure to scrape the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. This will enhance the flavor of the stew.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and the flavors to meld.
- After 30 minutes, remove the chicken thighs from the pot and set them aside on a cutting board. Once cool enough to handle, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks.
- Add the chopped collard greens to the pot, stirring them into the broth. Return the shredded chicken to the pot as well.
- Cover the pot again and let the stew simmer for an additional 30 minutes, or until the collard greens are tender and the flavors have fully developed.
- Before serving, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve the Chicken Collard Greens Stew hot, garnished with additional thyme if desired. Enjoy your hearty Southern dish!
Tips
- Choose the Right Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal for this recipe as they remain juicy and tender during the long cooking process.
- Prep Your Collard Greens: Thoroughly wash and chop the collard greens to remove any dirt and ensure even cooking. Remove the tough stems for a more tender texture.
- Layer Your Flavors: Take time to properly sauté the onions and garlic to build a deep flavor base for your stew.
- Don't Rush the Simmering: The key to a delicious stew is low and slow cooking. Allow the ingredients to simmer and develop rich, complex flavors.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper at the end of cooking to ensure the perfect balance of flavors.
- Make Ahead Friendly: This stew tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make it in advance and reheat.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with cornbread, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 120mg
