Brunswick Stew with Chicken and Pork

Brunswick Stew with Chicken and Pork is a hearty, slow-simmered Southern classic that’s deeply rooted in American comfort food traditions. Believed to have originated in Brunswick County (with both Virginia and Georgia proudly claiming it), this stew was traditionally cooked outdoors in large pots and shared at community gatherings.

What makes Brunswick stew special is its rich, smoky tomato-based broth, tender shredded meats, and a medley of vegetables that slowly meld together into a thick, satisfying stew. It’s rustic, filling, and packed with bold flavors that get even better with time—making it perfect for family meals, potlucks, and make-ahead dinners.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s the ultimate comfort food in a bowl.
The combination of tender chicken and pork creates deep, layered flavor, while the vegetables and seasonings bring balance and warmth. It’s the kind of recipe that fills the kitchen with amazing aromas and tastes even better the next day. I also love how forgiving and customizable it is—perfect for home cooks of all levels.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

• A Southern classic with rich history
• Hearty, filling, and perfect for feeding a crowd
• Uses simple, affordable ingredients
• Ideal for make-ahead meals
• Deep, smoky flavor that improves over time

Preparation Time, Cooking Time & Servings

Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 2 to 2½ hours

Total Time: About 3 hours

Servings: 6–8 servings
Calories: Approximately 420 calories per serving

Course: Main Course / Stew
Cuisine: Southern American

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken thighs or breasts, boneless and skinless
• 1 lb pork shoulder or pork butt
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1½ cups frozen corn
• 1 cup frozen lima beans or butter beans
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1–2 tablespoons barbecue sauce
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

Cooking Directions

1. Brown the pork and chicken.
2. Sauté onions and garlic.
3. Add liquids, vegetables, and seasonings.
4. Simmer until meats are tender and stew is thick.
5. Shred meat and return to pot before serving.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Brown the Meat
Heat oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add pork and chicken, browning on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In the same pot, add chopped onion and cook until soft. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

Step 3: Build the Stew Base
Return meat to the pot. Add chicken broth, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and barbecue sauce.

Step 4: Add Vegetables and Seasonings
Stir in potatoes, corn, lima beans, smoked paprika, cayenne, salt, pepper, and sugar if using.

Step 5: Simmer Slowly
Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 2 to 2½ hours, stirring occasionally.

Step 6: Shred and Finish
Remove meat, shred it, and return it to the pot. Simmer uncovered for 15 minutes to thicken.

How to Serve

Serve Brunswick Stew hot with cornbread, biscuits, or crusty bread. It pairs beautifully with coleslaw or simple greens and is perfect as a standalone hearty meal.

Recipe Tips

• Use pork shoulder for best flavor and tenderness
• Simmer low and slow for deeper taste
• Stir occasionally to prevent sticking
• Adjust thickness with broth if needed
• Let stew rest before serving for better flavor

Variations

All-Chicken Version: Omit pork and double the chicken.
Smoky BBQ Style: Add extra barbecue sauce and smoked paprika.
Spicy Brunswick Stew: Increase cayenne or add hot sauce.
Vegetable-Heavy: Add carrots, okra, or green beans.
Slow Cooker Version: Cook on low for 7–8 hours.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigerator:
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezing:
Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board

Conclusion

Brunswick Stew with Chicken and Pork is a soul-warming Southern classic that brings comfort, history, and bold flavor to the table. With tender meats, hearty vegetables, and a rich tomato base, it’s a satisfying one-pot meal perfect for family dinners or make-ahead meals. If you’re craving true comfort food with deep, slow-cooked flavor, this stew is a must-try recipe you’ll return to again and again.