Russian Chicken Stew Recipe

Russian chicken stew is one of those dishes that brings everything you need into a single, satisfying pot – tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a deeply flavourful sauce made with a warm mix of spices. Whether you're cooking for the family or meal prepping for the week ahead, this dish is a game changer. It’s simple, honest cooking at its best – no fancy ingredients or complicated methods, just beautiful food that fills you up and makes you feel good.

Why You Need to Cook This Russian Chicken Stew

There are plenty of reasons to fall in love with Russian chicken stew, but here’s why it’s a staple in my kitchen. First, it’s absolutely delicious – the kind of dish that satisfies everyone at the table, from picky eaters to seasoned foodies. It’s budget-friendly, made with affordable, everyday ingredients you likely already have in the fridge. It’s also easy to cook – everything goes into one pot, and once it’s simmering away, your job is mostly done.

This dish stores brilliantly – you can make a big batch, keep it in an airtight container, and enjoy it over several days. Perfect for work lunches or quick dinners, and the kids can reheat it easily in the microwave. Whether you prepare it on the stove or in a slow cooker, it turns out beautifully. It’s a one-dish wonder – protein, vegetables, and a light sauce that ties it all together. You don’t even need a side dish, but it’s fantastic with mashed or boiled potatoes if you want to bulk it out.

Plus, it’s a genuinely healthy meal. Packed with loads of vegetables and lean chicken breast, you get a balance of nutrition and comfort. I love how this stew feels like summer – all those bright, colourful vegetables and juicy chicken make it fresh and light, while still being hearty and satisfying.

Overall, the stews are my favourite type of dinners because of how easy and convenient they are! They are usually all-in-one - with protein and vegetables. Meat and side in one dish and in one pot. It is less time to cook, less time to clean after. I have another great stew recipe, it is Cajun Chicken Stew and it is awesome!

Ingredients

This Russian Chicken stew is a brilliant example of how simple, everyday ingredients can come together to make something flavourful, nourishing, and comforting. Each ingredient has a role – whether it’s bringing depth, freshness, sweetness, or richness – and together they create a well-balanced, vibrant dish.

• Chicken breast – lean, tender, and quick to cook, it soaks up the spices beautifully without making the stew too heavy.
• Carrot – adds natural sweetness and a subtle crunch that balances the savoury base.
• Onion – forms the aromatic foundation and gives the stew that signature comforting flavour.
• Celery ribs – bring an earthy note and help round out the savoury depth of the dish.
• Bell peppers – add colour, mild sweetness, and a bit of bite; they brighten up the stew.
• Courgette – softens into the sauce and adds moisture, giving the stew a light, velvety texture.
• Cherry tomatoes – added near the end for a fresh burst of acidity and vibrant juiciness.
• Garlic – essential for aromatic warmth and depth; it ties all the flavours together.
• Water – helps deglaze the pot and creates the light broth that carries the flavours.
• Vegetable oil – used for sautéing, it brings out the flavour of the chicken and vegetables.
• Salt & black pepper – enhance and balance the overall flavour.
• Paprika – adds gentle warmth and a smoky undertone.
• Dill & parsley – bring fresh, herby brightness that complements the vegetables.
• Oregano – adds an earthy, slightly peppery note to the spice blend.
• Ground coriander – lends a subtle citrusy aroma that lifts the entire dish.

How to Make Russian Chicken Stew

This is a wonderfully simple, fuss-free dish that comes together in one pot. With just a bit of prep and minimal effort, you’ll have a hearty stew that’s perfect for any day of the week. The flavours build in layers, and the vegetables and chicken finish tender and full of flavour.

Step 1: Mix all the spices – salt, black pepper, paprika, dill, parsley, oregano, and ground coriander – and set aside one-third. Toss the diced chicken with the remaining spice mix. If there is no time to marinate the chicken, then we are going to cook straight away!
Step 2: Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken until golden on all sides, then transfer it to a plate.
Step 3: In the same pot, sauté the chopped carrot, onion, and celery for about 5 minutes until slightly softened. Return the chicken to the pot, add the sliced bell peppers, and cook for another 4–5 minutes.
Step 4: Add the courgette and pour in the water. Stir in the minced garlic, halved cherry tomatoes, and the remaining spice mix. Mix everything well, reduce the heat, cover, and simmer gently for 20 minutes.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best parts about Russian chicken stew is how flexible it is. Don’t have courgette? Use mushrooms or aubergine instead. You can even throw in some frozen mixed veg if you're short on fresh. Chicken thighs work just as well, especially if you prefer darker meat. As for spices, feel free to experiment – thyme, rosemary, or even a pinch of chilli flakes can all bring something different. A spoonful of sour cream stirred in at the end adds richness too.

How to Serve Russian Chicken Stew

You’ve got options here. I love serving this stew with soft, fresh white rolls or a slice of rustic brown bread – perfect for dipping into that fragrant sauce. It also pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or even couscous. If I’m serving it as a lunch dish, I often just ladle it into a bowl and top it with a bit of fresh parsley or dill, maybe even a spoon of sour cream for a creamy twist.

How to Store It

Russian chicken stew is brilliant for make-ahead meals. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and it’ll keep for up to three days. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stove until piping hot. It actually tastes even better the next day, once the flavours have had time to develop.

FAQ

Continue to Content

Russian Chicken Stew

Print

Russian chicken stew is a one-pot wonder packed with juicy chicken breast, fresh vegetables, cherry tomatoes, and aromatic spices. It’s nourishing, easy, and full of flavour.

Prep Time 5 minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes

Total Time 35 minutes

Ingredients

• 600g – 700g diced chicken breasts
• 1 large carrot, chopped
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 bell peppers, sliced
• 1 courgette, halved and sliced
• 3–4 celery ribs, chopped
• 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
• A handful of cherry tomatoes, halved
• 50ml water
• Spice mix: salt, black pepper, paprika, dill, parsley, oregano, ground coriander - all adjustable to your taste, start with ½ tea spoon of each.
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

1. Mix all spices. Set aside one-third. Toss chicken with the rest of the spice mix. Optional: marinate in the fridge.
2. In a large pot, heat oil and sear the chicken until golden. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same pot, sauté carrot, onion, and celery for 5 minutes. Return chicken, add peppers, and cook 4–5 minutes.
4. Add courgette and splash of water. Stir to combine.
5. Add garlic, cherry tomatoes, and remaining spices. Stir and simmer for 20 minutes.
6. Serve hot with bread or potatoes. Garnish with fresh herbs or sour cream if desired.

Notes

Note about the spices: As all tastes is different, you and only you should decide the amounts of spices and dry herbs used for the dishes. I do not measure the herbs - so just start with a pinch of this and that you will know yourself what you like more! I love when it is a lot of dill and parsley and paprika so I will add a lot of it. Check for the salt in the end and adjust if needed!