Go Back
A bowl of rich winter creamy chicken stew with vegetables

Classic Winter Creamy Chicken Stew

A comforting and hearty stew perfect for cold winter days, featuring tender chicken, a rich and creamy broth, and an array of flavorful vegetables.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings 4 people
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
  • Paper towels
  • Whisk

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1.5 - 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 2 medium carrots peeled and diced
  • 2 celery stalks diced
  • 3-4 garlic minced
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups chicken broth low sodium preferred
  • 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 3-4 fresh thyme sprigs or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.

Cooking

  • Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear chicken in batches until golden brown, then remove and set aside.
  • Reduce heat to medium, add butter, then sauté onion, carrots, and celery for 5-7 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
  • Sprinkle flour over vegetables and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
  • Gradually whisk in chicken broth until no lumps remain and the mixture simmers and thickens.
  • Return chicken to the pot, add thyme and bay leaf, then simmer, covered, for 15-20 minutes until chicken is tender.
  • Remove thyme and bay leaf, then stir in half-and-half and frozen peas. Cook for 3-5 minutes until peas are tender and the stew is heated through, but avoid boiling.
  • Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Ladle into bowls, garnish with parsley if desired, and serve immediately.

Notes

For a thicker stew, you can cook it uncovered for a longer period during the simmering stage. If you prefer a thinner consistency, add a little extra chicken broth or water. You can also add other vegetables like potatoes or mushrooms during the simmering stage for more variety.