Chicken, Sweet Potato & Pea Stew One Pot Dog Food Recipes for Busy Dog Parents

Zack Keithy, our author, is a certified veterinarian technician (UC Blue Ash) for over 6 years (contact him here). The articles written here are based on his expertise and experience, combined with a review by our expert vet reviewers including Dr M. Tarantino. Learn more about us here.

Sick of not knowing what’s really in your dog’s food? It’s stressful, right?

You just want to be sure they’re eating something good, but those labels never tell the whole story.

Good news: you don’t have to guess anymore. Let me show you an easy and tasty one pot dog food recipe to give your pup the meals they deserve.

Recipe Overview

• This one pot dog food recipe is quick and easy, perfect for busy pet parents.
• It’s packed with lean protein, complex carbs, and essential vitamins for a happy, healthy dog.
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 30 minutes
• Serving size: Approximately 8-10 servings (for a medium dog)

Ingredients List

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, diced (Estimated cost: $6.00-$8.00)
  • Substitution: Ground turkey or lean ground beef works well too.
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes (Estimated cost: $1.50-$2.00)
• 1 cup frozen peas (Estimated cost: $1.00-$1.50)
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth (ensure no onion or garlic) (Estimated cost: $3.00-$4.00)
• ½ cup rolled oats (not instant) (Estimated cost: $0.50-$0.75)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or coconut oil (Estimated cost: $0.50-$0.75)
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley (Estimated cost: $0.25-$0.50)
• Optional: 1/4 teaspoon canine-specific multivitamin and mineral supplement (powdered) (Estimated cost: $0.50-$1.00 per serving)

Total estimated cost: $13.25-$18.50

Step-by-Step Instructions

• In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
• Add the diced chicken and cook until lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.
• Stir in the diced sweet potatoes and low-sodium chicken broth.
• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
• Cover and cook for 15 minutes, or until sweet potatoes are tender.
• Stir in the rolled oats and frozen peas.
• Continue to simmer, uncovered, for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats are cooked and the stew has thickened.
• Remove from heat and stir in the dried parsley.
• If using, mix in the powdered canine supplement after the stew has cooled slightly.
• Let the stew cool completely before serving to your dog.

Feeding Guidelines

• These are general guidelines, and it’s always best to talk to your vet for specific advice.
• Small dogs (under 20 lbs): 1/2 to 1 cup per day, divided into two meals.
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): 1.5 to 2.5 cups per day, divided.
• Large dogs (50-90 lbs): 3 to 4 cups per day, divided.
• For puppies, highly active dogs, or pregnant/nursing dogs, they might need more calories.
• Older dogs often need slightly less due to lower activity, but their protein needs can stay high.
• If your dog is overweight, you might want to adjust portion sizes down slightly.
• You can mix this homemade food with their regular kibble to help them transition or to add variety.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Chicken is a great source of lean protein, which is vital for muscle development and repair.
• Sweet potatoes offer complex carbohydrates for energy, and they are rich in fiber for healthy digestion.
• Peas provide essential vitamins like A, K, and B vitamins, along with minerals and fiber.
• Oats are another excellent source of complex carbs and soluble fiber, which can help regulate blood sugar.
• Olive oil gives healthy fats, including Omega-3s and Omega-6s, supporting skin and coat health.
• This recipe offers a good balance of protein (around 12-15% of calories), fats (around 6-8%), and carbohydrates (up to 50%).
• The optional supplement ensures all necessary vitamins and minerals are present for a complete diet.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Once cooled, store the stew in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, divide the cooled stew into individual portions and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight or gently reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Always check that the food is not too hot before serving.
• Some dogs prefer it slightly warm, while others are fine with room temperature.
• You can serve it on its own or mix a portion with your dog’s regular kibble for added nutrition and flavor.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I make a big batch and freeze it?

Yes, absolutely. This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. Just portion it out into daily servings and freeze it. It will stay fresh for up to two to three months.

Is this recipe suitable for all dog breeds and sizes?

This recipe is generally safe for most adult dogs. However, portion sizes will vary greatly based on your dog’s size, age, activity level, and specific health needs. Always check with your vet.

Do I need to add a supplement?

While this recipe uses whole, nutritious ingredients, it might not be 100% balanced for all dogs over the long term. A canine-specific multivitamin and mineral supplement is recommended to ensure complete nutritional adequacy, especially if this will be a regular part of their diet.

My dog has allergies. Can I substitute ingredients?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with turkey or lean ground beef. If your dog is sensitive to oats, you could try a small amount of cooked brown rice or quinoa, but always introduce new foods slowly. Consult your vet before making major changes.

Wrapping Up

Making homemade food like this stew shows real love for your dog. It’s easy, healthy, and lets you control every ingredient. This one pot recipe makes feeding them well simple and stress-free. Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Food board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!