The Best Chicken Stew Recipe for Dogs That Is So Easy To Make

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.

A lot of pet owners worry about their dogs’ health on a daily basis. You see them scratch and lose their hair, or simply not have the same energy as they used to.

Oftentimes, the issues are caused by the food they eat! There are many unknown ingredients and fillers present in commercial dog food.

But here’s a homemade chicken stew you can make for your dog in no time at all. Let’s do it!

Recipe Overview

• This ultimate chicken stew recipe for dogs takes about 20 minutes to prep and 45 minutes to cook.
• It’s packed with lean protein, essential vitamins, and healthy fats, supporting everything from a shiny coat to strong bones.
• This recipe makes about 6 cups, perfect for a medium dog for a few days, or a larger dog for a couple of meals.
• It’s especially good for picky eaters or dogs needing a nutrient boost.

Ingredients List

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs: $7.00 (protein, essential amino acids) – Substitution: Turkey or lean ground beef.
• 1 cup chopped sweet potato: $1.00 (complex carbohydrates, Vitamin A) – Substitution: Butternut squash.
• 1 cup chopped carrots: $0.75 (beta-carotene, fiber) – Substitution: Green beans.
• 1/2 cup chopped green beans: $0.75 (vitamins K, C, and B6, manganese, fiber) – Substitution: Spinach.
• 1/2 cup cooked brown rice: $0.50 (complex carbohydrates, fiber) – Already cooked, or use 1/4 cup uncooked rice. Substitution: Quinoa.
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth: $3.00 (hydration, flavor) – Make sure it’s plain, no onion or garlic.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: $0.25 (healthy fats, Omega-3s) – Substitution: Flaxseed oil after cooking.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley: $0.10 (antioxidants, breath freshener) – Substitution: Fresh parsley, a tiny pinch.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric: $0.15 (anti-inflammatory properties) – Optional.
• Optional: 1/4 teaspoon calcium supplement (e.g., eggshell powder or veterinary-approved calcium carbonate): $0.10 (calcium, phosphorus balance) – Highly recommended for homemade diets to ensure mineral balance.
• Total Estimated Cost: $13.60

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Cut the chicken: First, dice the boneless, skinless chicken thighs into small, bite-sized pieces suitable for your dog.
• Sauté the chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until it’s browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally.
• Add vegetables: Next, stir in the chopped sweet potato, carrots, and green beans.
• Pour in broth and seasonings: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth. Add the dried parsley and turmeric if you are using it.
• Simmer the stew: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 30-35 minutes. Cook until the sweet potatoes and carrots are tender when pierced with a fork.
• Stir in rice and supplement: Take the pot off the heat. Stir in the cooked brown rice and the optional calcium supplement.
• Cool and serve: Let the stew cool completely before serving it to your dog. It needs to be lukewarm or room temperature.

Feeding Guidelines

• Small dogs (under 20 lbs): Feed about 1/2 to 1 cup per day, divided into two meals.
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): Give them 1 to 2 cups per day, split into two meals.
• Large dogs (50-90 lbs): Offer 2 to 3 cups daily, also divided.
• Giant breeds (over 90 lbs): They might need 3-4 cups or more per day.
• Activity level matters: Very active dogs might need slightly more, while less active or senior dogs might need a bit less to maintain a healthy weight.
• Puppies and pregnant/nursing dogs: These dogs have higher nutritional needs. They will likely need more frequent meals and larger portions, but it’s crucial to consult your veterinarian to ensure they are getting all the essential nutrients for growth and development.
• Always talk to your vet: This recipe is a great supplement or occasional meal, but it’s important to discuss feeding homemade food with your veterinarian. They can help tailor feeding amounts and ensure your dog’s specific nutritional needs are met, especially if they have underlying health conditions.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Chicken: This is a lean protein source, providing essential amino acids crucial for muscle development, tissue repair, and a strong immune system.
• Sweet Potato: It’s a fantastic complex carbohydrate for sustained energy, and it’s loaded with Vitamin A for vision, skin health, and immune function, plus dietary fiber for healthy digestion.
• Carrots: These are rich in beta-carotene, which converts to Vitamin A, and they offer fiber and antioxidants, supporting good eye health and overall well-being.
• Green Beans: They provide a good source of vitamins K, C, and B6, as well as manganese and fiber, contributing to bone health and digestion.
• Brown Rice: This complex carbohydrate offers steady energy release and contains dietary fiber, which aids in digestive regularity.
• Olive Oil: A healthy fat source, it provides Omega-3 fatty acids that support a shiny coat, healthy skin, and reduce inflammation.
• Parsley: It acts as a natural breath freshener and contains vitamins K and C, along with antioxidants.
• Turmeric: This optional spice has known anti-inflammatory properties, which can be beneficial for joint health.
• Calcium Supplement: Crucial for homemade diets, it ensures a balanced calcium-to-phosphorus ratio, which is vital for strong bones and teeth.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Refrigeration: The homemade chicken stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, divide the cooled stew into individual portions in freezer-safe containers or bags. It will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
• Reheating: Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until just warm, but never hot.
• Serving temperature: Always serve the stew at room temperature or slightly warm. Hot food can burn your dog’s mouth and can be uncomfortable.
• Serving ideas: You can serve this stew on its own as a complete meal. Another idea is to mix it with your dog’s regular kibble to add extra flavor, moisture, and nutritional variety.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I use other vegetables?

Yes, you can. Just make sure they are dog-safe, like peas, spinach, or pumpkin. Avoid onions, garlic, grapes, and anything in the nightshade family like raw potatoes or tomatoes, as they are toxic to dogs.

Is this recipe suitable for puppies?

Puppies have very specific nutritional needs for growth. While this stew can be a healthy addition, it may not be nutritionally complete for a growing puppy without specific veterinary guidance and supplementation. Always consult your vet before feeding a homemade diet to a puppy.

How can I ensure it’s nutritionally balanced for long-term feeding?

For long-term feeding, it’s essential to work with a veterinary nutritionist to ensure the diet is completely balanced with all necessary vitamins and minerals. Adding a high-quality canine vitamin and mineral supplement designed for homemade diets is highly recommended to prevent deficiencies.

My dog has allergies. How can I adapt this recipe?

If your dog has chicken allergies, swap it for turkey or a novel protein like venison. If they react to a specific vegetable, substitute it with another dog-safe option. Always introduce new ingredients slowly to monitor for any adverse reactions.

Wrapping Up

Giving your dog this ultimate chicken stew is more than just a meal; it’s a gift of health and happiness, made with love. It’s easy, nutritious, and they’ll adore it.

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