Easy Chicken Stew Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, crowd-pleasing dinner that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening, you’ve come to the right place. This Easy Chicken Stew Recipe is one of my absolute favorites because it’s simple, comforting, and packed with delicious, wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re new to cooking stews or just want a straightforward recipe that delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss, stick with me—I promise you’re going to love how this turns out.

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Easy Chicken Stew Recipe shines because of its simple but well-balanced ingredients. The combo of fresh veggies, creamy broth, and tender chicken makes every spoonful truly satisfying. When you shop, look for fresh celery and carrots to get that perfect stew depth.

• Olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity richness and helps sauté the veggies nicely.
• Butter: Adds creaminess and depth—plus, it browns the veggies beautifully.
• Onion: Brings sweetness and aroma when sautéed.
• Celery: Gives that classic stew flavor and crunch.
• Carrots: Natural sweetness and vibrant color.
• Garlic: Essential aromatic that perks up the whole stew.
• Flour: Helps thicken the stew for that creamy texture.
• Chicken broth: The flavorful base of the stew—homemade or good-quality store-bought works great.
• Heavy cream: Gives a luscious finish and richness to the stew.
• Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that elevate the stew’s flavor without overpowering.
• Mushrooms: Earthy and meaty; I love using cremini for added depth.
• Russet potatoes: They hold up well during cooking and add heartiness.
• Chicken breasts: Tender and lean, they cook through perfectly during the simmering.
• Salt & pepper: To bring all those flavors together just right.

Variations

I love how flexible this Easy Chicken Stew Recipe is. Over time, I’ve played around with a few swaps and additions to suit tastes and dietary needs—and you should totally make it your own too!

• Dairy-Free Option: I’ve swapped out heavy cream for coconut milk sometimes, and it still turns out creamy and fabulous.
• Vegetable Boost: I’ve thrown in green beans or peas toward the end for an extra pop of color and nutrition.
• Spice It Up: For a touch of heat, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes makes it warm and cozy in a different way.
• Chicken Thighs: Using thighs gives a richer flavor and keeps the meat ultra tender—definitely a go-to for lazy Sundays.

How to Make Easy Chicken Stew Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Your Veggies to Build Flavor

Start by heating olive oil and butter in a Dutch oven or a heavy soup pot. Toss in chopped onion, celery, carrots, and minced garlic, sautéing over medium-high heat for about 5 to 7 minutes until everything is soft and beautifully fragrant. This step is where the stew begins to build its cozy foundation—you’ll notice the kitchen filling with amazing aromas that tell you you’re on the right track.

Step 2: Create a Rich Base with Flour and Broth

Stir in the flour, cooking it for about a minute to remove that raw taste. Then slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring continuously to dissolve any lumps. This thickens the stew and gives it that silky texture. Once your broth is smoothly incorporated, add the heavy cream, Italian seasoning, sliced mushrooms, diced potatoes, and uncooked chicken breasts right into the pot.

Step 3: Simmer for Tenderness and Flavor

Bring the stew to a gentle boil over high heat, then reduce to medium-low and let it simmer with the lid slightly ajar for about 25 minutes. Be sure to stir every now and then to prevent the veggies or chicken from sticking to the bottom. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together beautifully, and you’ll see the chicken cook through and the potatoes become tender.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

Once the chicken is cooked, take it out and shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces, then stir it back into the stew. Season the whole pot with salt and pepper to taste, and you’re ready to dive in. Trust me, your family will be asking for seconds—and so will you!

How to Serve Easy Chicken Stew Recipe

Garnishes

I like to sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or thyme over the top just before serving. It adds a fresh, bright flavor that balances the richness. Sometimes, a little cracked black pepper and a drizzle of good olive oil finish it off perfectly.

Side Dishes

Since the stew is hearty on its own, I often keep sides simple with a warm crusty bread or homemade biscuits to mop up all that wonderful sauce. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette is also a fresh contrast that’s a hit at my dinner table.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like serving this Easy Chicken Stew Recipe in individual rustic ramekins or hollowed-out bread bowls—impressive but effortless ways to elevate the experience. Garnish with a sprig of fresh herbs, and you’ve got a home-cooked meal that looks as good as it tastes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually let the stew cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It keeps beautifully for up to 4 days, and the flavors actually deepen overnight, making for an even tastier lunch the next day.

Freezing

Freezing works great for this stew. I portion it into freezer-safe containers and it keeps well for about 3 months. Just be sure to leave out the cream when freezing and add it fresh when reheating to keep the texture on point.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If it thickens too much, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. For creaminess, stir in a little fresh cream or milk right at the end.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Easy Chicken Stew Recipe isn’t just food—it’s a little dose of comfort you can make any night of the week. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve whipped this up when the weather turned cold or when my family needed a pick-me-up. It’s straightforward enough for weeknights but special enough to feel like a real treat. So, grab your pot and let’s get cooking—I can’t wait for you to taste that first spoonful and feel just how rewarding homemade comfort food can be.

Print