Cozy Chicken Stew

Last week we visited my dear sister and her family in the Colorado rocky mountains.  Spending time with her is always a little awe-inspiring for me-  not only is she an incredibly hard-working momma of 3 year-old twins, she runs her own photography business, and she just launched a merino wool children’s clothing company together with her husband.  And despite all that she does, she’s incredibly humble, thoughtful, and kind.  She’s my little sis, but I look up to her in so many ways and some of my best memories in life are with her.  For our time together in the mountains, my sister (who also happens to be remarkably organized) spoiled me and brought an entire cooler plus bags full of groceries and frozen meals.  As much as I love cooking, I also love not cooking, and it was such a welcome break from my normal routine of meal planning and grocery shopping.  We’re home again now and though the weather has teased us with glimpses of spring, part of me still wishes for those snowy mountainscapes and cozy meals after long days of skiing.

If it were the other way around and my sister were to visit me in those snow-capped mountains, I would treat her and her sweet family to this slow-cooker chicken stew.  The stew is quite versatile and can be adapted to use whatever produce you may have on hand.   I used onions, carrots, potatoes, and kale, but celery, peas, and/or any other types of dark leafy greens could also be used.  My kids are particularly fond of egg noodles, but I also like this served over polenta and I think brown rice or farro would also be good complements.  The chicken along with the vegetables are slow simmered in a white wine broth seasoned with thyme for a hearty and comforting bowl.  Both the slow cooker or the stovetop can be used, although lately I’ve enjoyed getting dinner prepped in the morning and letting the slow cooker do its work for the rest of the day.  Serve with fresh chopped parsley and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper.