This Creamy Chicken Stew recipe is a comforting dish that can be made on the Stove Top, in a Crock Pot, or an Instant Pot. Perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, this stew is rich and creamy, making it a delightful choice for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to enjoy it over biscuits or topped with fluffy dumplings. With its hearty flavors and straightforward preparation, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your household.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you prefer using a Crock Pot, Instant Pot, or traditional Stove Top, this stew fits your kitchen style.
- Rich and Flavorful: The combination of cream of chicken soup and ranch seasoning creates a deliciously creamy texture that’s hard to resist.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve it as a weeknight meal or at family gatherings; this stew is sure to please everyone!
- Hearty Ingredients: Packed with chicken and vegetables, it’s filling enough to be a complete meal on its own.
Tools and Preparation
To make this Creamy Chicken Stew successfully, having the right tools can make all the difference. Below are some essential tools you’ll need.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Crock Pot (optional)
- Instant Pot (optional)
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering the stew evenly, ensuring all flavors meld beautifully.
- Crock Pot: Great for slow cooking; just set it and forget it while you go about your day.
- Instant Pot: Perfect for when you’re short on time but still want that homemade flavor quickly.
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: Prepare Your Ingredients
Begin by prepping all your ingredients:
1. Dice the onion and celery.
2. Slice the red potatoes and chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
3. Measure out the remaining ingredients.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In your large pot or Dutch oven:
1. Heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onions and cook until translucent.
3. Add the chicken pieces and season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook until browned on all sides.
Step 3: Add Vegetables
Once the chicken is browned:
1. Stir in the sliced potatoes, baby carrots, diced celery, and green beans.
2. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
Step 4: Incorporate Liquids
Pour in:
1. The cream of chicken soup,
2. Whole milk,
3. Ranch seasoning mix,
4. Stir everything until well blended.
Step 5: Simmer
Cover and let simmer:
1. If using Stove Top: Simmer for about 30 minutes until vegetables are tender.
2. If using Crock Pot: Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
3. If using Instant Pot: Pressure cook on high for 15 minutes.
Step 6: Finish with Sour Cream
Just before serving:
1. Stir in the sour cream until smooth.
2. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Enjoy your deliciously creamy chicken stew!
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Stew
Serving Creamy Chicken Stew is a delightful experience, as it pairs wonderfully with various sides and toppings. Here are some popular serving suggestions to enhance your meal.
Over Biscuits
- Fluffy biscuits create a perfect base for the creamy stew, soaking up all the delicious flavors.
Topped with Dumplings
- Add soft dumplings on top of the stew for a comforting twist that will warm you from the inside out.
With Crusty Bread
- Serve with a slice of crusty bread to mop up every last bit of the creamy sauce, making each bite satisfying.
Accompanied by Rice
- A bowl of rice can act as a hearty companion, allowing you to enjoy the stew’s creamy texture in balance with the rice’s fluffiness.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Sprinkle fresh parsley or thyme on top for added flavor and a pop of color, enhancing both presentation and taste.
Drizzled with Hot Sauce
- For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a dash of hot sauce can elevate the dish, adding a spicy kick to the creamy base.
How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Stew
To achieve the best results with your Creamy Chicken Stew, consider these helpful tips.
- Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh vegetables and good quality chicken make for better flavor and texture.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste your stew before serving; add more salt or pepper if needed to enhance flavors.
- Let it simmer: Allowing the stew to simmer longer melds the flavors beautifully, creating a richer taste.
- Thicken if necessary: If you prefer a thicker consistency, mix in a little cornstarch dissolved in water during cooking.
- Serve hot: For maximum enjoyment, serve your stew piping hot right after cooking.
- Make it ahead: This stew can be made a day in advance; just reheat gently before serving for even deeper flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Stew
Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Chicken Stew can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and fluffy mashed potatoes complement the stew perfectly, providing an extra layer of comfort.
- Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds freshness and balances out the richness of the stew.
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread serves as an excellent side, bringing sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory flavors.
- Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad offers crunch and tanginess that brightens up every bite.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These provide a slightly nutty flavor that pairs well with creaminess.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with veggies can add texture and is great for those looking for something healthier.
- Coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw adds contrast while its tanginess cuts through the creaminess.
- Baked Potatoes: Serve baked potatoes on the side so guests can personalize their meal by topping them with leftover stew.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Creamy Chicken Stew can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes that can impact the final dish. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.
- Using low-fat milk: Low-fat milk won’t provide the same creamy texture. Always use whole milk for the best results.
- Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your dish enough can lead to bland flavors. Ensure to taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process.
- Overcooking the chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry. Cook just until it’s no longer pink for tender pieces.
- Ignoring ingredient temperatures: Mixing cold ingredients can affect cooking time and texture. Allow sour cream and other refrigerated items to warm up before use.
- Not letting it simmer long enough: A short simmer can result in undercooked vegetables. Allow sufficient time for everything to blend and soften.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Cool the stew completely before sealing to prevent condensation build-up.
Freezing Creamy Chicken Stew
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Leave space at the top of the container as it will expand when frozen.
Reheating Creamy Chicken Stew
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl; heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some questions people often ask about making Creamy Chicken Stew.
Can I make Creamy Chicken Stew in a slow cooker?
Yes! Simply add all ingredients into your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours.
What can I serve with Creamy Chicken Stew?
This stew pairs wonderfully with biscuits, rice, or topped with fluffy dumplings for a hearty meal.
How do I customize my Creamy Chicken Stew?
Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like peas or corn, or substitute chicken with turkey for a different flavor.
Is Creamy Chicken Stew healthy?
While deliciously creamy, it contains a balanced mix of protein and veggies. Enjoy it as part of a varied diet!
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Stew is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients, making it perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love how easy and satisfying it is!
Creamy Chicken Stew
Creamy Chicken Stew is the ultimate comfort food that warms your soul with every spoonful. This rich and creamy dish combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a luscious sauce, making it perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. Whether you choose to prepare it on the stove, in a Crock Pot, or using an Instant Pot, this versatile recipe is straightforward and guarantees a satisfying meal. Serve it over fluffy biscuits or topped with soft dumplings for a delightful twist. With hearty flavors and minimal prep time, this stew will quickly become a favorite in your home.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop/Crock Pot/Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 boneless chicken breasts
- 1 small onion
- 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup sour cream
- Italian seasoning
- Mixed vegetables (potatoes, carrots, celery, green beans)
- Ranch seasoning mix
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by dicing the onion and celery, slicing the potatoes, and chopping the chicken.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onions until translucent.
- Add chicken pieces seasoned with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; cook until browned.
- Stir in sliced potatoes, baby carrots, diced celery, and green beans.
- Pour in cream of chicken soup, whole milk, and ranch seasoning; stir until well combined.
- Simmer: Stove Top for 30 minutes; Crock Pot on low for 6 hours; Instant Pot on high for 15 minutes.
- Just before serving, mix in sour cream until smooth.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
