Serves 6 To 8 (Main-Course Servings)Roy Blount, Jr. got it right when he said, “Brunswick Stew is what happens when small mammals carrying ears of corn fall into barbecue pits.”
Use paper towels or a clean kitchen towel to pat the chicken dry all over.
Sprinkle the chicken pieces evenly with salt and pepper.
Whisk together the flour and cayenne in a shallow bowl, then dredge the chicken pieces through the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess.
Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a wide 6- to 7-quart heavy pot over medium heat until it shimmers.
Brown half of the chicken pieces, turning once, about 10 minutes total.
Transfer to a plate.
Add 1 tablespoon oil to the pot and brown the remaining chicken pieces; transfer to a plate.
Add remaining tablespoon oil to the pot along with the onion; season to taste with salt and pepper and cook, stirring and scraping up brown bits, until the onion is softened, about 8 minutes.
Add the bay leaf, broth, tomatoes, and the chicken pieces with any meat juices from the plate and bring to a simmer.
Simmer, covered, 50 minutes.
Stir in the corn and lima beans, then simmer, uncovered, until the stew is slightly thickened and the vegetables are tender, 15 to 20 minutes.
Season with salt and pepper.
Discard the bay leaf.
Notes / Tips / Wine Advice:
Serve warm in bowls with cornbread on the side if you like.