Dinner

Hearty Brunswick Stew with Chicken and Pulled Pork Recipe

ByMaya Arden September 23, 2026September 23, 2026

Introduction

Brunswick Stew is a comforting Southern classic packed with tender meats, vegetables, and rich flavors. This hearty one-pot meal is perfect for family dinners or chilly evenings when you want something warm and satisfying.

A white bowl filled with a thick tomato-based stew showing several layers: bright red sauce with visible chunks of cooked tomatoes, leafy green herbs sprinkled on top, yellow corn kernels, tender green lima beans, and soft brown shredded meat pieces interspersed throughout. The stew has a hearty, slightly chunky texture with a glossy surface. Next to the bowl is a vintage silver spoon resting on a white marbled surface, and a small white bowl of coarse salt is partially visible in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large yellow onion (diced)

3 cloves garlic (minced)
2 1/2 tablespoons tomato paste

Kosher salt (to taste)
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

2 cans diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces each)
1 1/2 cups frozen corn
1 cup frozen lima beans

1 pound Yukon Gold potatoes (peeled and diced)
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
2/3 cup barbecue sauce

3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 cups cooked shredded chicken
2 cups pulled pork

Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then add salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using. Mix well.

Step 3: Add the diced tomatoes, frozen corn, frozen lima beans, and diced potatoes to the pot. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and barbecue sauce until everything is combined.
Step 4: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add the shredded chicken and pulled pork. Reduce the heat to a simmer.
Step 5: Cook the stew for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the flavors meld together.

Step 6: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.

Tips & Variations

For a spicier stew, increase the cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce.
Swap pulled pork for smoked sausage or ham for a different smoky flavor.

Add other vegetables like green beans or okra for extra texture.
Use homemade barbecue sauce for a personalized touch.

Storage

Store leftover Brunswick Stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. This stew also freezes well—freeze in portioned containers for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with thick red tomato soup as the base layer, with visible chunks of yellow corn, soft pale green lima beans, and light yellow potato pieces floating through it; bits of shredded meat and diced tomatoes add texture throughout, topped with small bright green chopped herbs scattered on top. The bowl rests on a white marbled surface, with a silver spoon placed above the bowl. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make Brunswick Stew vegetarian?

Yes, you can omit the chicken and pulled pork and add extra vegetables or plant-based proteins like beans or tofu. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a fully vegetarian version.