Traditional Brunswick Stew

Warm, hearty, and rich with Southern tradition, this Traditional Brunswick Stew is a soul-soothing classic perfect for feeding a crowd. Packed with tender shredded chicken thighs and pork shoulder, smoky crumbled bacon, and a medley of vibrant vegetables like lima beans, corn, and russet potatoes, this stew is simmered to perfection in a savory base of crushed tomatoes, barbecue sauce, and chicken broth. The layered flavors are enhanced with aromatic garlic, onions, and a touch of paprika and cayenne for a gentle kick. With just 30 minutes of prep and a slow, hands-off simmering process, this one-pot wonder develops a deeply satisfying, thick texture ideal for serving with crusty bread or cornbread. Perfect for cozy evenings, potlucks, or family dinners, this authentic comfort food celebrates the rustic charm of Southern cuisine while delivering big, bold flavors.

Nutriscore Rating: 74/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:180 mins

Total Time:210 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds boneless chicken thighs
• 1 pound pork shoulder
• 6 slices bacon
• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
• 1.5 cups barbecue sauce
• 2 cups frozen lima beans
• 2 cups frozen corn kernels
• 2 russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 0.5 teaspoons cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

Step 1

Heat a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.

Step 2

Cook the bacon slices until crispy, then remove them and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.

Step 3

Season the chicken thighs and pork shoulder with salt and black pepper, then add them to the pot. Brown the meats on all sides, working in batches if necessary. Remove the browned meats and set aside.

Step 4

Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, stirring frequently.

Step 5

Deglaze the pot with 1 cup of the chicken broth, scraping the bottom to release any browned bits.

Step 6

Return the chicken thighs and pork shoulder to the pot, then add the remaining chicken broth, crushed tomatoes, and barbecue sauce. Stir well to combine.

Step 7

Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let it cook for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the meats are tender and easily shredded.

Step 8

Remove the chicken and pork from the pot and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded meat to the pot.

Step 9

Add the diced potatoes, frozen lima beans, and frozen corn to the pot. Stir to combine.

Step 10

Season the stew with paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir well.

Step 11

Continue to simmer the stew, uncovered, for an additional 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender and the stew has thickened to your liking.

Step 12

Crumble the reserved bacon and stir it into the stew just before serving.

Step 13

Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary. Serve the Brunswick Stew hot with crusty bread or cornbread on the side.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	4507.3 grams (4507.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	4290

Total Fat 150.10g	192%
Saturated Fat 43.70g	219%
Polyunsaturated Fat 3.30g
Cholesterol 1037mg	346%
Sodium 10535mg	458%
Total Carbohydrate 424.00g	154%
Dietary Fiber 50.00g	179%
Total Sugars 202.40g
Protein 327.60g	655%

Vitamin D 8IU	39%
Calcium 766mg	59%
Iron 37mg	203%
Potassium 11142mg	237%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 31.0%

Protein: 30.1%

Carbs: 38.9%