Savory Chicken Thigh Stew: A Flavorful Meal for Under $10 | Budget-Friendly Recipes

In our ongoing series on Budget-Friendly Recipes, we're taking a delicious turn into the world of meat-based dishes.

While meat can be expensive, certain cuts are more budget-friendly without sacrificing flavor.

This week, we're featuring a savory Chicken Thigh Stew that showcases how you can create a rich and satisfying meal without overspending.

Let's explore how to make this dish for under $10!

Why Chicken Thighs?

Chicken thighs are often more affordable than chicken breasts.

They contain more fat, which adds flavor and keeps the meat tender during cooking. This cut is perfect for slow-cooked dishes like stews, where the meat can absorb the flavors of the other ingredients.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
• 2 potatoes, diced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 tbsp. olive oil
• 1 tsp. dried thyme
• 1 tsp. dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste

Total cost: Around $10. Serves 4.

Savory Chicken Thigh Stew Recipe

Chicken thighs are a flavorful and affordable cut of meat, making them perfect for our Savory Chicken Thigh Stew. This dish is a comforting and satisfying meal that won’t break the bank.

• Note: Our cost estimation is based on average prices in the US, but prices will vary depending on your location. Our goal is to help you find ingredients that are generally more affordable!

1. Start by seasoning the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.

2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat and brown the chicken thighs on both sides. Remove and set aside.

3. In the same pot, sauté the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced potatoes, and sliced carrots with olive oil on medium heat until softened.

4. Stir in the dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper until they’re well combined.

5. Add the chicken thighs back to the pot, pour in the chicken broth, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 45 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.

6. Stir in the frozen peas and cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Before serving, taste your chicken thigh stew and adjust any seasoning if needed. Serve hot.

Additional Savings & Tips

Buy Whole Chickens

Purchasing a whole chicken and cutting it yourself can save money. Use the breasts for another meal and the carcass for homemade broth.

Use Seasonal Vegetables

Opt for vegetables that are in season for fresher flavors and lower prices.

Explore Other Cuts

Pork shoulder, beef chuck, and turkey thighs are other budget-friendly meat options that work well in slow-cooked dishes.

Shop Sales

Keep an eye on weekly sales for chicken thighs or other budget-friendly cuts.

Make it Your Own

Feel free to add or substitute ingredients based on what you have on hand. This stew is versatile and can be tailored to your taste preferences.

Understanding Frugal Cuts

Different cuts of meat vary in price due to factors like demand, ease of preparation, and perceived quality.

Less popular cuts like chicken thighs, pork shoulder, or beef chuck tend to be more affordable. They often require longer cooking times to become tender but offer rich flavors.

Final Thoughts

Creating a satisfying meat-based meal doesn't have to break the bank.

By choosing budget-friendly cuts and cooking them with care, you can enjoy delicious dishes like this Savory Chicken Thigh Stew. Stay tuned for more budget-friendly recipes, and until next time, happy cooking and happy saving!