Creamy Chicken Stew Recipe: A Comforting, Hearty Meal

Creamy Chicken Stew is the ultimate comfort food—a warm, hearty, and creamy dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a wholesome meal to satisfy your cravings. Packed with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a velvety broth, this stew is both nourishing and delicious.

What Is Creamy Chicken Stew?

Creamy Chicken Stew is a rich, savory dish made with succulent chicken pieces, hearty vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and celery, and a creamy broth infused with herbs. It’s a versatile recipe that can be easily adapted to suit dietary preferences, making it a perfect addition to any recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Simple steps make it accessible even for beginner cooks.
• Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser that everyone, from kids to adults, will enjoy.
• Customizable: Adapt the recipe with your favorite vegetables or make it dairy-free.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil or butter
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 cups (960 ml) chicken broth
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream or milk (or coconut cream for dairy-free)
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour or cornstarch (for thickening)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned on all sides (about 5-7 minutes). Remove and set aside.

Cooking the Vegetables

3. In the same pot, sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and celery until softened, about 5 minutes.

Simmering the Stew

4. Add potatoes, chicken broth, thyme, and parsley. Stir well and return the chicken to the pot.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Thickening the Stew

6. In a small bowl, whisk together heavy cream and flour until smooth.
7. Gradually stir the cream mixture into the stew. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the stew thickens.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme for a burst of flavor.
• Pair with crusty bread or biscuits to soak up the creamy broth.
• Enjoy alongside a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to maintain creaminess.

Freezing Instructions

• Cool the stew completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Recipe Variations

• Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream or a plant-based milk alternative.
• Gluten-Free: Replace flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free thickener.
• Vegetable Boost: Add green beans, peas, or mushrooms for extra nutrients.
• Herb Swap: Experiment with rosemary or oregano for different flavor profiles.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breast works well, though thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful.

How do I make the stew thicker?
For a thicker stew, add an extra tablespoon of flour or cornstarch to the cream mixture.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Sauté the chicken and vegetables first, then transfer all ingredients except the cream and flour to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, then stir in the cream mixture before serving.

This Creamy Chicken Stew is a satisfying, heartwarming dish that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prepping. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your household. Try it tonight and let us know how you liked it!

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