Creamy Hearty Chicken Stew – Cozy Comfort in a Bowl
When the weather turns chilly or I’m just craving something warm and nourishing, nothing hits the spot quite like a big bowl of Creamy Hearty Chicken Stew.
It’s rich, filling, and full of tender chicken, wholesome vegetables, and a creamy broth that feels like pure comfort. This recipe has all the flavors of classic home-cooked goodness—with a velvety twist that takes it to the next level.
Perfect for family dinners, cozy weekends, or prepping ahead for easy meals throughout the week, this stew is a one-pot wonder you’ll come back to again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Stew
🍗 Tender chicken in every bite
🥕 Packed with veggies like carrots, potatoes, and celery
🥣 Thick and creamy broth that’s ultra satisfying
🧄 Simple ingredients, big cozy flavor
⏱️ Perfect for make-ahead meals and meal prep
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
- 4 cups chicken broth
- ¾ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 tablespoons flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free)
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
How to Make Creamy Hearty Chicken Stew
🍳 In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then sear until golden brown on all sides (about 5–6 minutes). Remove from the pot and set aside.
🧅 In the same pot, add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
🥔 Add potatoes, thyme, rosemary, and chicken broth. Stir in the seared chicken and bring to a boil.
🔥 Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and chicken is fully cooked.
🥄 In a small bowl, whisk flour with a few tablespoons of the hot broth until smooth. Stir into the stew, then add the cream. Simmer for 5 more minutes until thick and creamy.
🌿 Stir in frozen peas if using, and cook for another 2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
🍽️ Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and a side of crusty bread or biscuits.
Optional Add-Ins and Variations
🌽 Add corn for sweetness and extra texture
🧅 Use leeks instead of onions for a milder flavor
🌱 Swap in fresh herbs like thyme or dill for brightness
🥬 Stir in baby spinach or kale at the end for a green boost
🧀 Top with a sprinkle of Parmesan for extra richness
Tips for the Best Chicken Stew
✔ Use chicken thighs for extra flavor and tenderness
✔ Sear the chicken first for the best texture
✔ Cut all veggies into even pieces so they cook evenly
✔ Add the cream at the end to keep the broth velvety smooth
Storage and Reheating
📦 Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days
❄️ Freeze for up to 3 months (leave out cream and add after reheating)
🔥 Reheat gently on the stove, adding broth or cream if it thickens
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Hearty Chicken Stew is the ultimate comfort food—rich, filling, and full of nourishing ingredients.
Whether you’re enjoying it as a weeknight dinner or making a big batch to freeze for later, it’s a cozy classic you’ll want to make again and again. Grab a spoon and dig in—you deserve it! 🍲💛
