This Creamy Chicken Stew recipe is perfect for cozy nights and family gatherings. It combines tender chicken with wholesome vegetables in a rich, creamy sauce that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re using the Stove Top, Crock Pot, or Instant Pot, this dish promises ease of preparation and delightful flavors. Serve it over biscuits or topped with dumplings for a comforting meal that will warm your heart.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, this stew is accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of cream of chicken soup, ranch seasoning, and Italian herbs delivers a taste sensation that satisfies every palate.
- Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you prefer a quick meal on the Stove Top or a slow-cooked flavor from the Crock Pot, this recipe fits your needs.
- Hearty Ingredients: Loaded with chicken and vegetables, this stew provides a filling meal that keeps everyone satisfied.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, this dish is sure to impress your guests.
Tools and Preparation
Before you get started on your Creamy Chicken Stew, gather the necessary tools and equipment to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Crock Pot or Instant Pot (optional)
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: This is essential for even cooking and allows you to easily simmer all ingredients together.
- Crock Pot or Instant Pot: These options provide flexibility in cooking methods; choose based on your schedule and preference.
- Sharp knife: Ensures precise cutting of vegetables and chicken for even cooking.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware.
Ingredients
For the Stew
- 1 Tablespoon butter
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 2 boneless chicken breasts (uncooked & cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2.5 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt/Pepper
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 2 large red potatoes (sliced)
- 1 cup baby carrots
- ½ cup celery (diced)
- ¾ cup green beans (fresh or frozen)
- 10.5 oz. cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup whole milk (don’t substitute low-fat)
- 1 cup sour cream (at room temp)
- 1 oz. ranch seasoning mix
How to Make Creamy Chicken Stew
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken
Begin by heating the butter and olive oil in your large pot over medium heat.
1. Add the bite-sized pieces of chicken to the pot.
2. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes.
Step 2: Add Vegetables
Once the chicken has cooked through:
1. Stir in the diced onion, sliced red potatoes, baby carrots, diced celery, and green beans.
2. Mix everything well to combine.
Step 3: Incorporate Soups and Dairy
Next:
1. Pour in the cream of chicken soup along with whole milk and sour cream.
2. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.
Step 4: Simmer the Stew
Now it’s time to let everything cook:
1. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil while stirring occasionally.
2. Reduce heat to low and cover the pot.
3. Let it simmer for about 40–50 minutes until vegetables are tender.
With these steps completed, your delicious Creamy Chicken Stew will be ready to serve! Enjoy it piping hot over biscuits or topped with dumplings for an extra touch of comfort food goodness!
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Stew
Creamy Chicken Stew is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer it as a hearty meal or a comforting side, here are some delicious serving suggestions.
Over Biscuits
- Fluffy biscuits make the perfect base for your creamy chicken stew. The buttery goodness soaks up the sauce beautifully.
With Dumplings
- Topping your stew with soft, pillowy dumplings adds an extra layer of comfort. They absorb the flavors and provide a delightful texture.
Accompanied by Rice
- Serving the stew over a bed of rice creates a satisfying and filling meal. The rice helps to balance out the rich creaminess of the dish.
In a Bread Bowl
- For a fun and unique presentation, serve the creamy chicken stew in hollowed-out bread bowls. This not only looks great but also adds a crunchy contrast.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives on top enhances the visual appeal and adds freshness to each bite.
How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Stew
To achieve the best version of your creamy chicken stew, consider these simple tips.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the flavor and texture of your stew.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste as you cook! Adjust salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning according to your preference.
- Cook low and slow: If using a slow cooker, let it simmer for several hours to develop deep flavors.
- Add veggies last: For added crunch, add more delicate vegetables like green beans during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Stew
Pairing side dishes with creamy chicken stew can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.
- Garlic Bread: The warm garlic aroma complements the stew perfectly while providing a crunchy element.
- Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the stew and refreshes your palate.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes create a comforting combination when served alongside or beneath the stew.
- Steamed Broccoli: Freshly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while providing a nice contrast in texture.
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs well with creamy dishes; it’s an excellent choice for soaking up all that delicious sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted veggies brings additional flavors and textures that complement the main dish beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Creamy Chicken Stew can be simple, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Using Low-Fat Dairy: This stew’s creaminess comes from whole milk and sour cream. Substituting low-fat versions can lead to a lack of flavor and texture.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Chicken breasts can dry out if cooked too long. Check for doneness early to keep your chicken tender and juicy.
- Skipping Seasoning: Failing to season properly can result in bland stew. Taste as you go and adjust with salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning for depth.
- Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Using stale or wilting vegetables affects the stew’s taste. Always select fresh produce for the best results.
- Rushing the Cooking Process: Stews benefit from slow cooking to develop flavors. Avoid turning up the heat; patience is key.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Enjoy within 3-4 days for best quality.
Freezing Creamy Chicken Stew
- Cool completely before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe bags or containers.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Creamy Chicken Stew
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm on low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Creamy Chicken Stew.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just ensure it fully cooks during the stewing process.
How do I thicken my Creamy Chicken Stew?
You can thicken it by adding a slurry of cornstarch and water or letting it simmer longer to reduce the liquid.
What can I serve with Creamy Chicken Stew?
This stew pairs well with biscuits, dumplings, or a side salad for a complete meal.
Can I customize the vegetables in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite veggies like peas, corn, or bell peppers based on your preference.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Stew is not only hearty and comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with different vegetables or spices according to your taste. Give this delightful recipe a try and enjoy a warm bowl of goodness!
Creamy Chicken Stew
Creamy Chicken Stew is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy nights or family gatherings. This hearty dish features tender chicken simmered with fresh vegetables in a luscious, creamy sauce that’s sure to warm your heart. Whether you opt for the Stove Top, Crock Pot, or Instant Pot method, this recipe guarantees ease of preparation without sacrificing flavor. Serve it over fluffy biscuits, topped with soft dumplings, or even in a bread bowl for a delightful twist. Enjoy this satisfying stew that brings everyone together at the table!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 boneless chicken breasts
- 1 small onion
- 2 large red potatoes
- 1 cup baby carrots
- ½ cup celery
- ¾ cup green beans
- 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup sour cream
- Ranch seasoning mix
Instructions
- Heat butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chicken pieces and season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until no longer pink (5–7 minutes).
- Stir in onion, potatoes, carrots, celery, and green beans; combine well.
- Pour in cream of chicken soup, whole milk, and sour cream; stir until mixed.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 40–50 minutes until veggies are tender.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 860mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
