The Chicken Stew That Practically Cooks Itself – With Spelt, Herbs, and Green Olives

Wholesome, Hearty, and Ready in One Pot

When it comes to satisfying, fuss-free meals, this all-in-one chicken stew stands out as a true hero. Packed with lean chicken breast, vibrant green bell pepper, nutty spelt, and briny green olives, it brings together bold flavors and comforting textures—all simmered in a savory white wine and herb-infused broth. It’s the kind of dish that feels like home-cooked luxury without requiring a complicated cooking process.

Everything comes together in a single pot: garlic and onions are sautéed until fragrant, chicken is browned for depth, then spelt and vegetables join the party with wine, broth, and fresh rosemary. The stew simmers gently, allowing the grains to soak up all the delicious flavor. The result is a tender, hearty meal with minimal effort and even less cleanup—a perfect solution for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor – And Easily Adaptable

One of the best things about this dish is how easy it is to make your own. Don’t have spelt kernels? No problem—swap them for rice, bulgur, couscous, or even barley. Each brings a slightly different texture but works beautifully in the stew. The green bell pepper can be replaced with red or yellow varieties, or even zucchini or carrots if you’re using what’s in the fridge.

The olives add a briny kick that enhances the richness of the broth, but you can leave them out or replace them with capers or sun-dried tomatoes for another flavor profile. White wine brings acidity and complexity, but if you’d rather skip it, just replace it with extra broth and a splash of lemon juice. This recipe is designed to be flexible while still delivering on flavor.

Tips for Serving and Storing This Chicken Stew

This stew is at its best when served hot and fresh, topped with a handful of chopped parsley for color and brightness. For a creamier finish, you can stir in a spoonful of crème fraîche or a drizzle of olive oil just before serving. It’s hearty enough to stand alone, but also pairs well with a crusty piece of bread or a crisp green salad.

Leftovers are just as tasty the next day—the spelt continues to absorb flavor, making each spoonful even more delicious. Store any extras in the fridge for up to three days, or freeze in individual portions for a ready-to-go meal when time is short. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to loosen the grains.

Can I make this stew ahead of time? What’s a good substitute for white wine? Can I use another grain instead of spelt?

All-in-One Chicken Stew with Vegetables and Spelt

The dish requires only a few minutes of preparation; the rest of the time it takes care of itself in the pot while the ingredients blend their flavors and a wonderful aroma spreads through the home. This stew is actually easy, quick, healthy, and really delicious!

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What’s a good substitute for white wine?
Replace it with an equal amount of chicken broth and add a splash of lemon juice or white wine vinegar to mimic the acidity of the wine.

Can I use another grain instead of spelt?
Absolutely. Rice, couscous, bulgur, barley, or even quinoa are all great alternatives—just adjust the cooking time and liquid slightly based on the grain.