Name: Brunswick Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (smoked or rotisserie); 2 cups pulled pork or smoked pork shoulder; 1 large onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups corn (fresh, frozen, or canned); 2 cups lima beans (or butter beans); 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce; 1 cup barbecue sauce; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 1 tbsp brown sugar; Salt and black pepper, to taste; Hot sauce (optional, to taste); 2 tbsp olive oil or butter

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Brunswick Stew is comfort food at its best—savory, smoky, and loaded with tender meat and vegetables. It’s incredibly filling, easy to make in large batches, and perfect for chilly evenings, potlucks, or meal prepping. With layers of flavor from barbecue sauce, tomatoes, and slow-cooked meat, every spoonful is satisfying and rich with Southern charm.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Shredded cooked chicken (smoked or rotisserie)
Pulled pork or smoked pork shoulder
Onion, chopped
Garlic, minced
Corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
Lima beans (or butter beans)
Diced tomatoes
Tomato sauce
Barbecue sauce
Chicken broth
Worcestershire sauce
Apple cider vinegar
Brown sugar
Salt
Black pepper
Hot sauce (optional)
Olive oil or butter

Directions

In a large Dutch oven or soup pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onions until soft, about 5 minutes.
Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, barbecue sauce, chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, vinegar, and brown sugar. Mix well.
Add shredded chicken and pulled pork to the pot. Stir to combine.
Add corn, lima beans, salt, pepper, and a few dashes of hot sauce if desired.
Bring the stew to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until thickened and flavorful.
Taste and adjust seasonings before serving. Serve hot with cornbread or crackers.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 6 to 8 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

Beef version: Add smoked beef brisket or ground beef instead of pork.
Seafood twist: Stir in shrimp or crab meat during the last few minutes of cooking.
Spicy Brunswick stew: Increase hot sauce or add cayenne pepper for more heat.
Vegetarian option: Use plant-based meat substitutes and vegetable broth.
Georgia-style: Some versions include potatoes for a thicker, heartier texture.

Storage/Reheating

Store Brunswick Stew in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors improve as it sits, making it even better the next day.

To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot. You can also microwave individual servings in short intervals, stirring between each.

For freezing, allow the stew to cool completely and freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

What is Brunswick Stew made of?

It typically includes shredded chicken, pork, vegetables like corn and lima beans, and a tomato-based broth seasoned with barbecue sauce and spices.

Is Brunswick Stew spicy?

It’s usually mildly spiced, but you can easily adjust the heat with hot sauce or cayenne pepper.

Can I use canned meats?

Yes, canned chicken or pork can be used in a pinch, though fresh or smoked meats add better flavor.

What’s the difference between Brunswick Stew and chili?

Brunswick Stew is tomato-based with vegetables and multiple meats, while chili is often bean-heavy and spiced differently.

Can I make it in a slow cooker?

Absolutely. Combine all ingredients and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours.

Does Brunswick Stew have to include lima beans?

Traditionally, yes—but you can substitute with other beans like black-eyed peas or omit them entirely if preferred.

What should I serve with Brunswick Stew?

Cornbread, biscuits, or saltine crackers are perfect accompaniments.

Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Yes, it’s an excellent make-ahead meal that tastes even better the next day.

Can I freeze Brunswick Stew?

Yes, it freezes well for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Where did Brunswick Stew originate?

It’s debated between Brunswick County, Virginia, and Brunswick, Georgia—both claim to have created the original version.

Conclusion

Brunswick Stew is a rich, filling, and comforting dish that showcases the soulful flavors of Southern cooking. Packed with tender meats, sweet corn, and hearty beans in a tangy tomato base, it’s a perfect meal for sharing with family and friends. Whether you make it for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this stew is sure to become a comforting favorite in your kitchen.