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.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Add Peas and Parsley (Stovetop): Add frozen peas and chopped parsley about 15 minutes before finishing the cooking, allowing them to soften without overcooking.
- 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.
- 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
