There’s something about a warm, hearty stew that says comfort—and your dog deserves that same comfort in their bowl. This Chicken, Zucchini, and Sweet Pea Dog Stew is a nourishing homemade meal packed with lean protein, fresh vegetables, and just enough wholesome starch to keep tails wagging.
This recipe is perfect for dogs who enjoy moist, stew-style meals or for pet parents who want to give their dog a break from dry kibble. It’s gentle on the stomach, free of additives and preservatives, and uses ingredients most of us already have on hand. Chicken is a lean protein that’s easy to digest, while zucchini adds fiber and essential vitamins. Sweet peas bring a touch of sweetness and texture dogs seem to love, and the entire dish is simmered into a soft, spoonable consistency that’s perfect for dogs of all ages—even seniors with fewer teeth.
This stew is ideal for meal prepping, and it freezes well, so you can always have a healthy option ready for your pup. If you’re new to making your dog’s food at home, this is a great recipe to start with—simple steps, family-friendly prep, and results your dog will love.
What You’ll Need
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 medium zucchini, chopped
- 1 cup sweet peas (fresh or frozen)
- ½ cup diced carrots (optional for extra nutrients and texture)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth or water
- Optional: ½ cup cooked rice or sweet potato for added heartiness
Pro Tips
- Use boneless chicken for ease and safety—bone fragments can be dangerous to dogs.
- Chop veggies small so they cook quickly and are easy to digest.
- Use low-sodium broth or plain water to avoid excess salt in your dog’s diet.
- Cool before serving. Let the stew come to room temperature before feeding to avoid burns.
- Freeze extra portions in individual containers for fast, healthy meals later.
Tools Required
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Storage containers or freezer-safe bags
Substitutions and Variations
- Protein: Swap chicken with ground turkey or beef, or use canned salmon (no added salt).
- Vegetables: Substitute zucchini with green beans or squash; replace peas with diced pumpkin or butternut squash if needed.
- Starch: Add cooked quinoa, barley, or mashed sweet potato for extra fiber and energy.
- Fats: Use flaxseed oil or coconut oil for a different source of healthy fat.
Make Ahead Tips
You can chop all your veggies the night before to cut down on prep time. This stew can be made in double batches and frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently before serving.
Instructions
1. Cook the chicken
Add the chicken thighs or breasts to a large pot with 2 cups of the broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes until fully cooked and easy to shred.
2. Shred the chicken
Remove the cooked chicken from the pot and place it on a cutting board. Shred it into small, bite-sized pieces using two forks.
3. Cook the vegetables
In the same pot, add olive oil and sauté the chopped zucchini, peas, and carrots for 5–7 minutes until softened.
4. Combine and simmer
Return the shredded chicken to the pot and pour in the remaining broth. Add rice or sweet potato if using. Simmer everything together for another 10 minutes until thick and stew-like.
5. Cool and serve
Remove the stew from heat and let it cool completely. Portion into serving bowls or storage containers once it’s cooled.
Leftovers and Storage
Refrigerate cooled stew in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Freeze for up to 3 months in single-serving containers or bags. Thaw overnight in the fridge and warm slightly before serving—never serve hot.
Conclusion
Making homemade dog food doesn’t have to be complicated. This Chicken, Zucchini, and Sweet Pea Dog Stew is nutritious, comforting, and incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re transitioning away from commercial food or just adding a few fresh meals into your dog’s week, this recipe is a wholesome and loving way to nourish your pup.
With a few simple ingredients and a little prep time, you can create something that’s not only good for your dog’s health but also makes them feel like part of the family. After all, nothing says love like homemade stew.
Tried this recipe? I’d love to hear how it turned out! Share your pup’s reaction, ask questions, or drop your favorite add-ins in the comments below—I’m always here to help you feed your best friend well.
