This Creamy Chicken Stew is a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal to warm you up on a cold day or a simple recipe to impress your family, this stew checks all the boxes. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. Plus, you can easily prepare it on the Stove Top, in a Crock Pot, or an Instant Pot!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, this recipe is perfect for both beginner and seasoned cooks.
- Versatile Cooking Methods: Prepare it on the Stove Top, in a Crock Pot, or an Instant Pot—whatever suits your schedule!
- Creamy and Flavorful: The blend of cream of chicken soup and sour cream creates a deliciously rich stew that satisfies every time.
- Family-Friendly: Packed with vegetables and tender chicken, this stew is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
- Perfect for Leftovers: This dish tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep.
Tools and Preparation
Before starting your Creamy Chicken Stew, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- A large pot or Dutch oven
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering ingredients together evenly without overcrowding.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures precise ingredient amounts for consistent flavor.
- Sharp knife: Makes chopping ingredients faster and safer.
Ingredients
This Creamy Chicken Stew recipe is simple to make on the Stove Top, Crock Pot, or Instant Pot! Enjoy it over biscuits or topped with dumplings!
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)
For the Creamy Base
- 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: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by prepping all your ingredients. Dice the onion, slice the potatoes, and cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In your large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent.
Add the chicken pieces along with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned.
Step 3: Add Vegetables
Once the chicken is browned:
Stir in sliced red potatoes, baby carrots, celery, and green beans.
Step 4: Incorporate the Creamy Base
Pour in the cream of chicken soup, whole milk, sour cream, and ranch seasoning mix.
Step 5: Simmer
Bring everything to a gentle boil.
– Reduce heat to low and cover.
– Simmer for about 50 minutes until vegetables are tender and flavors meld together.
Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Creamy Chicken Stew!
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Stew
Creamy Chicken Stew is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways, making it perfect for any occasion. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your meal.
Over Biscuits
- Flaky biscuits are a classic accompaniment, soaking up the creamy stew beautifully for a comforting bite.
With Dumplings
- Topped with fluffy dumplings, this dish becomes even heartier and is sure to impress family and friends.
In a Bread Bowl
- Serve the stew in a hollowed-out bread bowl for a fun and edible presentation that adds flavor as you eat.
Accompanied by Rice
- A side of steamed rice complements the creamy chicken stew perfectly, allowing the rich flavors to shine through.
How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Stew
To elevate your Creamy Chicken Stew, consider these helpful tips for achieving the best results every time.
- Use high-quality chicken: Fresh, boneless chicken breasts will give your stew a tender texture and enhance the overall flavor.
- Season well: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper; they are essential for bringing out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
- Cook low and slow: Allowing the stew to simmer longer lets all the flavors blend beautifully, resulting in a richer taste.
- Add fresh herbs: Garnishing with fresh parsley or thyme just before serving adds a pop of color and freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Stew
Pairing your Creamy Chicken Stew with complementary side dishes can make your meal even more satisfying. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Bread: This buttery delight is perfect for dipping into the creamy stew broth.
- Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the stew.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are another comfort food that pairs well with this hearty dish.
- Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds nutrition and color to your plate without overwhelming flavors.
- Cornbread: Slightly sweet cornbread balances out the savory elements of the stew wonderfully.
- Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables brings extra nutrients and textures to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Creamy Chicken Stew can be a delightful experience, but certain mistakes can hinder your results. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:
Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your chicken before cooking can lead to bland flavors. Always season your chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning for a flavor boost.
Overcooking the vegetables: If you cook the vegetables for too long, they may become mushy. Aim for tender-crisp vegetables by adding them at appropriate times during cooking.
Using low-fat milk: Substituting low-fat milk in this recipe can alter the creamy texture you’re aiming for. Stick with whole milk for the best results.
Not letting the stew rest: Serving immediately after cooking might not allow flavors to meld. Letting it sit for a few minutes before serving enhances taste.
Ignoring ingredient temperature: Using cold sour cream can cause curdling when mixed in. Make sure it’s at room temperature before adding it to the stew.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
- Label your container with the date made for reference.
Freezing Creamy Chicken Stew
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- The stew can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Ensure to leave space at the top of containers as liquids expand when frozen.
Reheating Creamy Chicken Stew
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20-30 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes) on medium power, stirring in between.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until steaming hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this Creamy Chicken Stew so special?
This creamy chicken stew is rich and flavorful, combining tender chicken with hearty vegetables and a luscious sauce that comforts and delights.
Can I make Creamy Chicken Stew ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare this dish a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.
Is there a way to customize this Creamy Chicken Stew?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or corn, or substitute different proteins such as turkey or beef for variety.
What should I serve with my Creamy Chicken Stew?
This stew pairs wonderfully with biscuits, rice, or crusty bread, making it a complete meal that’s satisfying and filling.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Stew is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite veggies or spices. Give it a try; it’s a hearty dish that brings joy to any table!
Creamy Chicken Stew
Creamy Chicken Stew is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any occasion. With its rich and creamy texture, this hearty dish combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a luscious sauce that warms the soul. Whether you choose to prepare it on the Stove Top, in a Crock Pot, or an Instant Pot, this easy recipe guarantees a delicious family meal everyone will love. Ideal for cozy nights or impressing guests, Creamy Chicken Stew is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Serve it over fluffy biscuits or topped with dumplings for an extra touch of warmth and satisfaction.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop/Crock Pot/Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 boneless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 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
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 oz ranch seasoning mix
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by dicing the onion, slicing the potatoes, and cutting the chicken.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion until translucent.
- Add chicken pieces along with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; cook until browned.
- Stir in red potatoes, carrots, celery, and green beans.
- Pour in cream of chicken soup, whole milk, sour cream, and ranch seasoning mix.
- Bring to a gentle boil; reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for about 50 minutes until vegetables are tender.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
