Creamy Chicken Stew Recipe

Creamy Chicken Stew is a hearty and satisfying recipe perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Packed with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a rich, creamy broth, this recipe is versatile and easy to prepare using your stove, crock pot, or Instant Pot. Whether you’re making dinner for the family or preparing a comforting meal to share, this stew combines classic flavors with simple ingredients, creating a dish that’s both wholesome and flavorful. With options for customization, it’s suitable for various dietary preferences, making it a reliable choice for every home cook.

Ingredients

• Base Ingredients:
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 boneless chicken breasts, uncooked and cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2.5 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
• Vegetables:
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 large red potatoes, sliced
  • 1 cup baby carrots
  • 1/2 cup celery, diced
  • 3/4 cup green beans (fresh or frozen)
• Creamy Mixture:
  • 10.5 oz. cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup whole milk (do not substitute with low-fat)
  • 1 cup sour cream, at room temperature
  • 1 oz. ranch seasoning mix
• Instant Pot Addition:
  • 1 cup chicken broth (only for Instant Pot version)

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Instructions

Stove Top Method:

1. Melt the butter in a large soup pot over medium heat.
2. Season the cubed chicken with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add to the pot and sauté until cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
3. Heat the olive oil in the same pot. Add the onions, potatoes, carrots, celery, and green beans. Cook for about 5 minutes, until slightly softened. Return the chicken to the pot.
4. In a bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, and ranch seasoning. Pour into the pot and stir until combined.
5. Cover and simmer for 45 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
6. Serve as is, or spoon over warm biscuits for a heartier meal.

Crock Pot Method:

1. Season the cubed chicken with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Melt the butter in the bottom of the crock pot. Add the olive oil, vegetables, and chicken. Stir to coat everything evenly.
3. Mix together the cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, and ranch seasoning. Pour over the chicken and vegetables.
4. Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours. Cooking low and slow helps maintain the creaminess of the dairy.
5. Serve as desired, optionally over biscuits.

Instant Pot Method:

1. Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode. Add the butter, olive oil, and vegetables. Cook for about 5 minutes, until the onions are softened and translucent.
2. Add 1 cup of chicken broth to the pot. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom to prevent burning.
3. Season the chicken with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add it to the Instant Pot.
4. Secure the lid and ensure the pressure release valve is sealed. Cancel Sauté mode and select Pressure Cook. Set the timer for 8 minutes.
5. When the timer ends, perform a quick release. Open the lid carefully.
6. Switch back to Sauté mode. Stir in the cream of chicken soup, ranch seasoning, and HALF the milk and sour cream. Let simmer for 5 minutes.
7. Add the remaining milk and sour cream for a thinner consistency, if desired.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Meal: Whether using the stove, crock pot, or Instant Pot, this recipe minimizes cleanup.
• Rich and Creamy: Perfectly seasoned chicken and vegetables in a luscious, creamy broth.
• Customizable: Easy to adapt for different dietary needs and preferences.
• Family Favorite: A comforting dish that’s hearty and satisfying.

Tips

• Chicken Preparation: For quicker cooking, slice the chicken into even pieces.
• Consistency: Adjust the thickness of the stew by adding more or less milk and sour cream.
• Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for added flavor.
• Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetables: Add peas, corn, or mushrooms for extra variety.
• Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk or almond milk and dairy-free sour cream.
• Low-Carb: Replace potatoes with cauliflower florets.
• Protein Options: Substitute chicken with turkey or tofu.

FAQs

Can I freeze this stew?
Yes, but avoid freezing if using dairy-based ingredients, as they may separate upon reheating. Consider freezing without the milk and sour cream, then adding them fresh when reheating.

What type of potatoes work best?
Red potatoes or Yukon Gold are ideal as they hold their shape during cooking.

Can I skip the ranch seasoning?
For a simpler flavor, replace it with a mix of garlic powder, onion powder, and dried parsley.

Serving and Suggestions

• Pairings: Serve with crusty bread, biscuits, or a side salad.
• Toppings: Sprinkle with shredded cheese or crispy bacon bits for added flavor.
• Occasions: Ideal for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or cozy family gatherings.