dooky chase stewed chicken recipe

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The Best dooky chase stewed chicken recipe
I first tried Dooky Chase’s stewed chicken recipe years ago when a friend brought it to a potluck, and I’ve been making it ever since. There’s something about the way the chicken falls apart after slow cooking in that rich, savory broth—it’s simple but full of depth, the kind of dish that makes you want seconds before you’ve even finished your first plate. My kids ask for it at least once a month, and honestly, I don’t blame them. It’s one of those meals that feels special without being fussy, the kind you can throw together on a weeknight but still serve to company without hesitation.
What I love most about this recipe is how balanced it is. The chicken is lean but stays juicy, and the tomatoes, bell peppers, and onions add fiber and vitamins without overpowering the dish. It’s hearty enough to keep everyone full but light enough that you don’t feel weighed down afterward. Plus, it reheats beautifully, so I often make a big batch and freeze portions for those nights when I don’t have the energy to cook. Whether it’s a Sunday dinner or a Tuesday night, this stewed chicken always hits the spot.

Dooky Chase’s Famous Stewed Chicken
4.6 from 760 votes
A beloved New Orleans classic, this stewed chicken recipe from Dooky Chase’s Restaurant is rich, flavorful, and simmered to perfection with Creole spices, vegetables, and a touch of love. Serve over rice for a comforting Southern meal.
Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time1 hour 15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hour 35 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 420 kcal
🥘Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 3 lbs chicken (legs, thighs, or a mix), cut into pieces
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
For the Stew
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil or bacon fat
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced (the Holy Trinity)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp hot sauce (e.g., Crystal or Tabasco)
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and black pepper to taste
👨🍳Directions
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1 Season the chicken pieces generously with salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Set aside.
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2 Heat the vegetable oil or bacon fat in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Working in batches, brown the chicken pieces on all sides, about 5-7 minutes per batch. Remove the chicken and set aside.
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3 In the same pot, reduce the heat to medium and add the diced onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften, about 5-7 minutes.
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4 Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
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5 Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, chicken broth, thyme, oregano, bay leaves, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
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6 Return the browned chicken to the pot, along with any accumulated juices. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the chicken simmer gently for 45-50 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is tender and the sauce has thickened.
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7 Remove the bay leaves and discard. Stir in the chopped parsley and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.
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8 Serve the stewed chicken hot over steamed white rice, with extra sauce spooned on top.
🔧Equipment
- Large Dutch oven or heavy pot with lid
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Tongs
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
🔥Calories: 420 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 120mg🧂Sodium: 850mg🌾Total Carbs: 12g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 38g
📝Notes
Tips: For extra depth of flavor, add a splash of red wine or a Parmesan rind while simmering. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water and stir into the stew during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Watch Video Of How Dooky Chase’s Famous Stewed Chicken Works
Leah Chase’s stewed chicken recipe is one of those dishes that just works, no matter the occasion. It’s rich, flavorful, and comforting enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for holidays or family get-togethers. The way the spices meld together makes it a crowd-pleaser every time, and honestly, it’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table without any fuss.
