Easy One Pot Brunswick Stew (Hearty Southern Chicken and Pork Stew)

What is Brunswick Stew?

Brunswick Stew is a traditional Southern stew known for its thick tomato-based broth, tender meats, and vegetables. Many versions combine chicken and pulled pork with ingredients like corn, lima beans, and potatoes.

The stew slowly cooks until the vegetables soften and the broth thickens into a rich, spoon-coating texture. It’s often served at barbecues or family gatherings across the southern United States.

RELATED: Why not warm up from those St. Patty’s Day green-themed races with a delicious bowl of easy to make Crockpot Beef and Guinness Irish Stew Recipe.  When it’s cool outside nothing warms me up better than a nice beef stew that can be made ahead and placed in a slow cooker to be ready for me when I get home. It’s also chock full of vitamins!

What makes this stew healthy?

This homemade Brunswick Stew contains a balanced mix of protein, vegetables, and fiber-rich ingredients.

Chicken and pulled pork add protein that keeps the meal filling. Corn, lima beans, celery, onion, and bell pepper add vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Potatoes contribute natural thickness and extra nutrients without needing heavy cream or flour.

Cooking everything in one pot keeps the ingredient list simple and avoids processed additives often found in canned soups or stews.

Ingredients you’ll need to make this stew recipe

• Oil or butter – Used to sauté the vegetables and build the base flavor of the stew.
• Yellow onion, diced – Adds sweetness and depth as it cooks.
• Celery stalks, diced – Brings a mild earthy flavor that works well in slow-cooked soups and stews.
• Green bell pepper, diced – A classic ingredient in Southern cooking that adds mild pepper flavor.
• Cooked shredded chicken – Adds lean protein and texture. Rotisserie chicken works great here.
• Cooked pulled pork – Adds smoky richness that gives Brunswick Stew its signature flavor.
• Chicken broth – Forms the base of the stew and ties all the ingredients together.
• Diced tomatoes – Adds body, acidity, and tomato flavor to the broth.
• Ketchup – Creates the slightly sweet tomato base traditional in many Brunswick Stew recipes.
• Worcestershire sauce – Adds savory depth and a subtle tang.
• Brown sugar – Balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
• Smoked paprika – Adds a light smoky flavor that complements the pork.
• Garlic powder – Brings a warm savory note to the broth.
• Onion powder – Adds another layer of onion flavor.
• Salt (adjust to taste) – Helps balance the flavors of the stew.
• Black pepper – Adds mild heat.
• Frozen corn – Adds sweetness and texture.
• Frozen lima beans – Traditional Brunswick Stew ingredient that provides fiber and protein.
• Peeled and diced russet potato – Thickens the stew as it cooks and adds hearty texture.

Why you’ll love this healthy stew

• A classic southern Brunswick stew recipe anyone can cook
• One pot meal that keeps cleanup simple
• Great way to use leftover chicken or pulled pork
• Thick, hearty texture that feels comforting and filling
• Packed with vegetables and protein
• Perfect for meal prep since it reheats beautifully

How to make Brunswick Stew from scratch

1. Cook the vegetables – Heat oil or butter in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, celery, and bell pepper. Cook for 6–8 minutes until softened and fragrant.

1. Add the meat and broth – Stir in the shredded chicken, pulled pork, and chicken broth. Mix everything together.

1. Add the tomato base and seasonings – Add diced tomatoes, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the ingredients are well combined.

1. Add the vegetables – Stir in frozen corn, lima beans, and diced potatoes.

1. Simmer the stew – Bring the mixture to a low boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 40–50 minutes. Stir occasionally until the potatoes are tender and the stew thickens.

1. Rest before serving – Taste and adjust salt or pepper if needed. Let the stew rest for about 5 minutes before serving so it thickens slightly.

Frequently asked questions about this Brunswick Stew recipe

Read on for tips and substitution ideas on how to make this recipe, such as how to customize this salad, and how to store this salad.

This easy Brunswick Stew recipe proves that simple ingredients can turn into a deeply satisfying meal. Tender chicken, smoky pulled pork, and vegetables simmer together into a thick, cozy stew that works for weeknight dinners or relaxed gatherings with friends and family.

Once you try this homemade Brunswick Stew, it’s likely to become one of those reliable recipes you come back to whenever you want a hearty one-pot meal. It’s comforting, filling, and perfect for making a big batch to enjoy all week.