By David | Updated: January 19, 2025
Light, healthy, and irresistibly tasty – this homemade stew is a favorite for both cats and dogs!
Introduction: A Homemade Meal Your Pets Will Love
Looking for a quick, easy, and healthy homemade pet meal that works for both your feline and canine companions? This Ground Chicken & Zucchini Stew is your answer.
Not only is it loaded with lean protein and low-calorie veggies, but it’s also gentle on the digestive system, making it an excellent choice for pets with sensitive stomachs. Whether you’re supplementing your pet’s regular meals or looking for a healthy treat, this recipe is a great fit for multi-pet households.
🥣 Why Ground Chicken & Zucchini Stew is a Pet Parent’s Dream
This wholesome recipe offers a balanced blend of nutrients, texture, and flavor — all without artificial additives or harmful ingredients. Let’s break down what makes it stand out:
✅ Lean Protein from Ground Chicken
- High in amino acids
- Promotes muscle development
- Easier to digest than red meat
- Ideal for both adult pets and growing kittens or puppies
✅ Zucchini – A Low-Calorie Super Veggie
- Rich in fiber, vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium
- Helps maintain hydration due to its high water content
- Supports healthy digestion and metabolism
✅ Hydrating and Light
The added water or low-sodium chicken broth turns it into a light stew, making it easier to chew, digest, and keep your pet hydrated.
🛒 Ingredients List (Single Meal Serving)
- 1/4 pound ground chicken (unseasoned, lean)
- 1/4 cup zucchini, grated or finely chopped
- 1–2 tablespoons water or low-sodium chicken broth
- (Optional: Add 1 tbsp green peas or carrots for variation)
💡 Pro Tip: Always use fresh, pet-safe ingredients with no added salts, seasonings, or preservatives.
🔪 Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Cook the Ground Chicken
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
- Add the ground chicken and cook until it’s no longer pink (about 8–10 minutes).
- Break into small, bite-sized pieces as it cooks.
🚫 Do not use oil, butter, garlic, or onion — they are toxic to pets.
2. Prep the Zucchini
- Grate or finely chop the zucchini.
- You can steam it for 3–5 minutes if your pet prefers a softer texture or has dental issues.
3. Combine and Simmer
- Mix the zucchini into the cooked chicken.
- Add 1–2 tbsp of water or low-sodium broth to reach your desired stew consistency.
- Simmer for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Cool Before Serving
- Let it cool to room temperature.
- Serve in a clean, shallow bowl — adjust portion sizes based on pet weight.
🐾 Portion Guidelines by Pet Size
| Pet Type | Weight | Portion Size |
|---|---|---|
| Small dog/cat | under 15 lbs | 1–2 tbsp |
| Medium dog | 15–35 lbs | 1/4 to 1/2 cup |
| Large dog | 35+ lbs | 1/2 to 1 cup |
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Using Seasoned or Spiced Meat
Garlic, onion, salt, or spices can harm your pet’s liver and digestive system.
❌ Serving It Too Hot
Pets can burn their tongues. Always cool before serving.
❌ Raw or Tough Zucchini
Lightly steam or grate to improve digestibility — especially for smaller pets.
❌ Overcooking Chicken
Dry chicken loses its appeal. Cook it until just done to retain moisture.
🧊 How to Store and Serve Later
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat slightly, then let it cool before feeding.
- Freezer: Freeze in ice cube trays for single portions. Store frozen cubes in a zip-lock bag for up to 1 month.
🔥 Quick tip: Add a frozen cube to dry food to increase palatability.
🐶🐱 Is It Safe for Both Dogs and Cats?
Yes — this stew is 100% pet-safe for both cats and dogs when made without seasoning. It’s:
- Soft and easy to chew
- Hydrating and nutrient-rich
- Free from fillers and allergens
For puppies and kittens, ensure all pieces are small and soft.
🥕 Variations for Picky Eaters
| Add-In | Benefits |
|---|---|
| 🦃 Ground turkey | Lean protein, variety in taste |
| 🥔 Mashed sweet potato | Natural sweetness, fiber |
| 🥕 Shredded carrots | Beta-carotene & crunch |
| 🥦 Steamed green peas | Plant protein & vitamins |
❓Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned zucchini?
Yes, but make sure it’s unsalted, unseasoned, and BPA-free.
Is this recipe safe for pets with allergies?
If your pet is allergic to poultry or zucchini, substitute with ground turkey or carrots. Always consult your vet if unsure.
How often can I feed this?
Use it 1–2 times a week as a treat or topper — not a full meal replacement.
Can I add rice?
Yes, but in small amounts. Plain white or brown rice is digestible and can bulk up the meal.
👎 Weak Points in the Original Recipe (Now Improved!)
- Lack of nutrition context: We’ve added detailed benefits for each ingredient.
- No feeding chart: Now included by weight category.
- Missed safety reminders: Emphasized toxic ingredients to avoid.
- No portion variation tips: Added ideas for substitutions and freezing methods.
- No visual serving ideas: Now includes quick tips on how to serve, store, and reheat.
💬 Final Thoughts
This Ground Chicken & Zucchini Stew is a simple yet powerful recipe that combines the goodness of whole foods with the convenience of quick prep. Whether your pet is a picky eater or simply deserves something special, this stew delivers both flavor and nutrition.
By making your pet’s meals at home, you’re taking an active step toward improved health, energy, and longevity — all while creating mealtime moments they’ll truly enjoy