Make-Ahead Chicken Stew for Dogs Recipe

Introduction

This Make-Ahead Chicken Stew for Dogs is a nutritious and flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for keeping your furry friend satisfied. Made with wholesome ingredients like chicken, vegetables, and apple, it provides balanced nutrition and can be stored for convenience.

Ingredients

• 3 pounds boneless and skinless chicken thighs
• 1/4 cup chicken livers
• 2 carrots peeled and sliced
• 1 cup frozen green beans
• 1 apple cored, seeds removed, and cut into quarters
• 2 to 3 cups water
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1/3 cup fresh parsley chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

1. Step 1: For the slow cooker method, add all ingredients except peas, parsley, and olive oil into the slow cooker. Pour enough water to just cover the ingredients. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 4 to 5 hours.
2. Step 2: About 15 minutes before cooking finishes, add the frozen peas and chopped parsley to the slow cooker.
3. Step 3: For the stove top method, place all ingredients except peas, parsley, and olive oil in a large pot. Add enough water to cover everything. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 1 hour or until carrots are tender and chicken is fully cooked.
4. Step 4: About 15 minutes before cooking is done, stir in the peas and parsley.
5. Step 5: Allow the cooked ingredients to cool slightly. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the mixture along with olive oil to a bowl. Mash with a fork or potato masher, or pulse 3 to 4 times in a food processor until it reaches a texture similar to canned dog food.
6. Step 6: Let the stew cool completely before dividing into freezer-safe bags or containers for storage.

Tips & Variations

• Adjust the texture by mashing more or less, depending on your dog’s preference.
• You can swap parsley for fresh spinach or kale for added nutrients.
• Always remove apple seeds as they can be toxic to dogs.
• Consult your vet to determine appropriate serving sizes for your dog’s breed and size.

Storage

Store the stew in individual freezer-safe bags or containers. Keep frozen for up to 3 months. Defrost in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Reheat gently if desired, making sure the food is not too hot before offering it to your dog.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can be used, though thighs offer more fat and flavor which many dogs enjoy.

Is this stew suitable for all dog breeds?

This recipe is generally safe for most dogs, but portion size and specific dietary needs vary. Always check with your veterinarian before introducing new foods to your pet’s diet.

Make-Ahead Chicken Stew for Dogs Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 80 reviews

• Author: Charlotte
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (stovetop) to 8 hours 15 minutes (slow cooker)
• Yield: Approximately 8 to 10 cups of dog stew, depending on ingredient sizes 1x

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Description

A wholesome and nutritious Make-Ahead Chicken Stew recipe specifically crafted for dogs, combining lean chicken thighs with wholesome vegetables and fruits. This recipe uses gentle cooking methods to preserve nutrients and can be made in a slow cooker or on the stovetop, making meal prep for your canine companion easy and convenient.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein

• 3 pounds boneless and skinless chicken thighs
• 1/4 cup chicken livers

Vegetables & Fruits

• 2 carrots peeled and sliced
• 1 cup frozen green beans
• 1 apple cored, seeds removed, and cut into quarters
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1/3 cup fresh parsley chopped

Other

• 2 to 3 cups water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

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Instructions

1. Prepare Ingredients: Gather all ingredients. Peel and slice the carrots, core and quarter the apple after removing seeds, chop fresh parsley, and have frozen peas and green beans ready.
2. Slow Cooker Method: Place chicken thighs, chicken livers, carrots, green beans, apple, and enough water to just cover the ingredients into the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 4 to 5 hours.
3. Add Peas and Parsley: About 15 minutes before the end of the cooking time, add the frozen peas and chopped parsley to the slow cooker. Continue cooking until done.
4. Stovetop Method: In a large pot, combine chicken thighs, chicken livers, carrots, green beans, apple, and enough water to cover. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 1 hour or until carrots are tender and chicken is cooked through.
5. Add Peas and Parsley (Stovetop): Add frozen peas and chopped parsley about 15 minutes before finishing the cooking, allowing them to soften without overcooking.
6. Cool and Mash: Allow the ingredients to cool slightly. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cooked ingredients to a mixing bowl. Add olive oil. Mash with a fork or potato masher, or for a smoother texture, pulse 3 to 4 times in a food processor to reach the consistency similar to canned dog food.
7. Store Properly: Let the food cool completely before portioning into freezer-safe ziplock bags or containers. Freeze and defrost frozen portions in the fridge overnight before serving.

Notes

• The serving size depends on your dog’s size and breed; consult your vet for personalized feeding recommendations.
• This recipe is versatile – you can make it in a slow cooker or on the stovetop based on your schedule and equipment.
• Freezing the portions makes meal prep easy and convenient for busy pet owners.
• Ensure all apple seeds are removed to avoid toxicity in dogs.
• Olive oil adds healthy fats beneficial for your dog’s coat and skin.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour (stovetop) to 8 hours (slow cooker)
• Category: Dog Food
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Pet Nutrition

Keywords: Chicken dog stew, homemade dog food, slow cooker dog food, healthy dog meals, make-ahead dog food