We’ve all faced those hectic days when whipping up a dinner feels overwhelming, but that’s where Progresso Recipe Starters shine. These convenient bases pack in rich flavors and simplify home cooking so we can create delicious meals effortlessly.
As fans of easy yet tasty options we’ve come to rely on Progresso for their quality ingredients and versatile recipes. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro these starters let us explore global tastes right in our own kitchen.
Ingredients
As we build on the convenience and quality of Progresso Recipe Starters, let’s list the essential ingredients for a simple, flavorful chicken stew recipe. We’ll order them as they are typically used, from base to finish, with prep specifics noted for accuracy.
Key Ingredients List
- Progresso Recipe Starters (1 can, 19 oz; we recommend the Fire Roasted Tomato variety as our base for its rich, bold flavors that enhance home cooking)
- Boneless chicken thighs (1 lb, cut into 1-inch pieces; pat dry for even searing)
- Onion (1 medium, diced; use a sharp knife for uniform pieces to ensure even cooking)
- Garlic cloves (3, minced; fresh garlic adds a pungent aroma that complements the starter’s profile)
- Carrots (2 large, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds; wash and peel for a crisp texture)
- Celery stalks (2, chopped into 1/2-inch pieces; include the leaves for added earthy notes)
- Diced tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz; drain if you prefer a thicker stew to balance the starter’s liquid)
- Chicken broth (2 cups, low-sodium; choose our high-quality option to avoid overpowering the Progresso flavors)
- Fresh herbs (1/4 cup, such as thyme and rosemary, chopped; add just before simmering for a fragrant finish)
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons; use extra-virgin for its fruity undertones in searing the chicken)
- Salt and pepper (to taste; season in layers as we cook for depth of flavor)
Instructions
We guide you through preparing a delicious chicken stew using our favorite Progresso Recipe Starters for a flavorful, hassle-free meal that highlights its rich, fire-roasted tomato base and quality ingredients.
Preparation
Before we dive into cooking, let’s prep our ingredients to ensure everything comes together smoothly. Start by gathering 1.5 pounds boneless chicken thighs cut into 1-inch pieces for even cooking. Next, chop 1 medium onion into fine dice and mince 3 garlic cloves to release their aromatic punch. Slice 2 carrots and 2 celery stalks into 1/2-inch pieces for a satisfying crunch. Measure out 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes, 2 cups chicken broth, and 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary to add earthy notes. Finally, have 2 tablespoons olive oil ready for sautéing and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking
Now we cook the stew to build layers of flavor starting with that bold Progresso Recipe Starters base. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large pot over medium heat then add the chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and golden, stirring to prevent burning. Add the chicken thigh pieces and cook for 5 minutes until they brown on all sides, releasing savory juices that mingle with the aromatics. Stir in the sliced carrots, celery, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and 1 jar Progresso Recipe Starters Fire Roasted Tomato variety; bring the mixture to a boil then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes. As it cooks, the stew thickens with a rich, smoky aroma that fills the kitchen, promising a hearty texture and deep, tangy flavors.
Assembly
To finish our stew, we assemble the final elements for a polished dish that showcases the versatility of Progresso Recipe Starters. Stir in the chopped fresh herbs and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, letting the mixture simmer for another 2-3 minutes to infuse bright, herbaceous notes. Ladle the stew into bowls, garnishing with extra herbs for a pop of color and freshness; the result is a comforting bowl with tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a robust, tomato-forward sauce that delights the palate with every bite.
Required Tools
To bring our flavorful chicken stew recipe using Progresso Recipe Starters to life, we need a selection of essential tools that ensure efficient preparation and cooking. These items help us handle everything from chopping fresh ingredients to simmering the stew to perfection, making the process seamless and enjoyable for both novice and experienced cooks.
Basic Kitchen Essentials
We recommend gathering the following core tools, organized by their primary use in the recipe:
- Knife: A sharp chef’s knife for cutting boneless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and chopping vegetables like onions, garlic, carrots, and celery quickly and safely.
- Cutting board: A sturdy wooden or plastic cutting board to provide a stable surface for all our prep work, preventing slips and keeping our kitchen counter clean.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate sets for measuring out ingredients such as chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and seasonings, ensuring our stew’s flavors are balanced and consistent.
- Large pot or Dutch oven: A heavy-bottomed pot with a lid for browning the chicken and simmering the entire stew, allowing even heat distribution to achieve tender results with the rich, tomato-forward sauce from Progresso Recipe Starters.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: A heat-resistant wooden spoon for stirring and sautéing onions, garlic, and other components, which helps prevent sticking and maintains the dish’s vibrant textures.
Specialized Tools for Efficiency
For a smoother cooking experience, we suggest incorporating these optional yet helpful tools to elevate our routine:
- Immersion blender: If we want to slightly thicken the stew’s sauce without transferring it, this tool can quickly blend in some of the vegetables for a creamier consistency.
- Ladle: A sturdy ladle for serving the finished stew, ensuring we portion out generous helpings of tender chicken and crisp vegetables with ease.
By having these tools ready, we can transition smoothly from ingredient prep to the cooking steps, maximizing the convenience of Progresso Recipe Starters and delivering a comforting meal that highlights global flavors in our kitchen.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To maximize the convenience of Progresso Recipe Starters in our chicken stew recipe, we can prepare several components in advance. This approach saves time on busy days while preserving the rich, flavorful essence of the dish. By prepping ahead, we ensure that the Fire Roasted Tomato variety and other key ingredients maintain their vibrant tastes and textures.
Prepping Ingredients in Advance
We recommend starting with the vegetables and proteins, as these form the foundation of our stew. Follow these steps to prepare everything safely and efficiently:
- Chop and store vegetables: Begin by finely chopping the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Place them in airtight containers or resealable bags, separating each type to prevent sogginess. For optimal freshness, we suggest storing in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This keeps the crispness intact, so they release their natural sweetness when added to the stew.
- Prepare the chicken: Cut the boneless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and season them lightly with salt, pepper, and any fresh herbs from the recipe. Store the seasoned chicken in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Marinating overnight enhances the tender, juicy texture, allowing the flavors to infuse deeply.
- Mix seasonings and base: Combine the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and a portion of Progresso Recipe Starters Fire Roasted Tomato variety in a bowl or jar. Stir well to blend the robust, tomato-forward sauce, then refrigerate for up to 3 days. This pre-mixed base ensures a seamless transition when you’re ready to cook, amplifying the global-inspired tastes.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Proper storage is key to maintaining the quality of our make-ahead elements. Here’s how we handle it:
- Use a markdown table below to reference storage guidelines for common ingredients in our chicken stew:
| Ingredient | Storage Method | Maximum Time | Tips for Best Results |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chopped vegetables | Airtight container in fridge | 2 days | Keep dry to avoid wilting; use paper towels to absorb moisture. |
| Seasoned chicken | Sealed container in fridge | 24 hours | Avoid overcrowding to prevent bacterial growth; cook thoroughly before eating. |
| Mixed base (with Progresso Recipe Starters) | Glass jar or bowl in fridge | 3 days | Stir before use to redistribute flavors; avoid freezing to preserve texture. |
When it’s time to cook, we simply combine the prepped ingredients in your large pot or Dutch oven. Sauté the vegetables first to release their aromatic scents, then add the chicken and base for a quick assembly. This method lets us deliver a comforting, flavorful meal with minimal effort, highlighting the versatility of Progresso Recipe Starters.
Conclusion
We’ve explored how Progresso Recipe Starters bring ease and excitement to our kitchens. They’re the perfect shortcut for crafting delicious, global-inspired meals without the hassle.
By incorporating them into our routines, we’ll enjoy more flavorful dishes and quality time with loved ones. Let’s make cooking an adventure we look forward to every day.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Progresso Recipe Starters?
Progresso Recipe Starters are convenient, flavorful cooking bases made with quality ingredients like tomatoes and herbs. They simplify home cooking by providing a rich foundation for meals, perfect for busy days. Ideal for novice and experienced cooks, they offer versatile options to explore global tastes without starting from scratch.
How do Progresso Recipe Starters make cooking easier?
These starters save time by offering pre-made bases with bold flavors, letting you skip lengthy prep. They’re versatile for quick recipes like stews, allowing you to add simple ingredients for a delicious meal. Great for busy schedules, they help deliver restaurant-quality results at home with minimal effort.
What ingredients are needed for the chicken stew recipe?
For the chicken stew, you’ll need boneless chicken thighs, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, fresh herbs, olive oil, seasonings, and Progresso Fire Roasted Tomato Recipe Starter as the base. This combination creates a flavorful, hearty dish in under an hour.
How do I prepare and cook the chicken stew?
Start by prepping ingredients: chop chicken, vegetables, and herbs. Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil, brown the chicken, then add carrots, celery, tomatoes, broth, and the Progresso starter. Simmer until tender, stir in fresh herbs, and garnish. The result is a comforting stew with rich, tomato-forward flavors.
What tools are essential for making this recipe?
You’ll need a sharp chef’s knife, sturdy cutting board, measuring cups and spoons, a large pot or Dutch oven, and a wooden spoon. An optional immersion blender can thicken the sauce, and a ladle helps with serving. These tools ensure smooth prep and cooking for a hassle-free experience.
Can I make the chicken stew ahead of time?
Yes, prep vegetables, chicken, and the base in advance. Store chopped veggies in the fridge for up to 2 days, seasoned chicken for 1 day, and the mixed base separately. When ready, combine and cook for a quick meal, maintaining freshness and flavors with Progresso Recipe Starters’ convenience.
Are there tips for varying or storing the recipe?
Experiment by swapping veggies or proteins for different tastes, like using beef instead of chicken. For storage, cool the stew before refrigerating in airtight containers for up to 3 days or freezing for a month. Reheat gently on the stove to preserve texture and flavor.