As the days grow cooler and the leaves start to turn, there’s nothing more comforting than a hearty bowl of chicken stew. This Easy Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Stew is a go-to for those busy days when you crave a homemade meal without the fuss. Packed with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a rich, creamy broth, it’s a dish that warms the soul and satisfies the appetite. Just toss everything in the crock pot, let it simmer, and enjoy the cozy flavors that make this stew a family favorite.
Steps
- Stove Top Method: Begin by melting butter in a soup pot over medium heat. Season the cubed chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until it’s thoroughly done. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
- Add olive oil to the pot and include the diced onion, sliced potatoes, baby carrots, diced celery, and green beans. Cook the vegetables until they soften, which should take about 5 minutes, and then return the chicken to the pot.
- Mix the cream of chicken soup, whole milk, sour cream, and Ranch seasoning until it’s well-combined. Add this mixture to the pot and let it simmer until the potatoes and carrots become tender, approximately 45 minutes.
- Adding Dumplings (Optional): Combine 1.5 cups of Bisquick with 0.5 cup milk and add dry seasonings like parsley, thyme, sage, and garlic powder. Bring the stew to a light bubble and drop in the dumplings, cooking uncovered for 10-15 minutes, rotating occasionally.
- Crock Pot Method: Season the chicken and melt butter in the crock pot. Add olive oil, chicken, and vegetables, stir to coat, then pour in the mixed soup, milk, sour cream, and Ranch seasoning. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Instant Pot Method: Set to sauté mode and cook the vegetables with butter and olive oil until onions are translucent. Add chicken broth to deglaze, then season and add the chicken. Seal the pot, pressure cook for 8 minutes, then quick release.
- Open the lid, switch to sauté mode, and add the soup mixture with half of the milk and sour cream. Simmer for about 5 minutes. Add the remaining milk and sour cream if you prefer a creamier consistency.
- Serve the chicken stew over biscuits or enjoy it topped with dumplings for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 boneless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2.5 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 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
- 1 cup sour cream, at room temperature
- 1 oz ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1½ cups Bisquick
- ½ cup milk
- 2 teaspoons parsley
- ½ teaspoon thyme
- ½ teaspoon sage
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1724kcal | Carbohydrates: 208g | Protein: 80g | Fat: 60g | Saturated Fat: 28g | Cholesterol: 268mg | Sodium: 5072mg | Potassium: 5952mg | Fiber: 20g | Sugar: 36g | Vitamin A: 20400IU | Vitamin C: 100mg | Calcium: 520mg | Iron: 12.8mg
FAQ
- Can I make this Creamy Chicken Stew in a Crock Pot or Instant Pot?
- Yes, this recipe can be prepared on the Stove Top, Crock Pot, or Instant Pot. Instructions for each method are included to suit your preference.
- What should I serve with Creamy Chicken Stew?
- This stew pairs wonderfully with homemade Buttermilk Biscuits or can be topped with dumplings for added comfort.
- How do I store leftovers of the Creamy Chicken Stew?
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. However, note that the texture may change slightly after freezing and reheating due to the dairy content.
- Can I use low-fat milk in this recipe?
- It is recommended to use whole milk, especially if preparing the stew in the Slow Cooker, as the higher fat content helps prevent the dairy from curdling.
- What if I want more broth in the stew when using the Instant Pot?
- If you prefer a brothier stew when using the Instant Pot, you can add an additional 1/2 cup of milk and sour cream after the initial cooking time.
Tips
- Use Whole Milk: When making this stew, especially if using a Slow Cooker, opt for whole milk instead of low-fat. The higher fat content helps prevent the dairy from curdling during the cooking process.
- Enhance with Dumplings: For a heartier meal, consider adding dumplings. Mix Bisquick with milk and seasonings, then drop bite-sized portions into the bubbling stew. Cook uncovered, gently turning them to ensure even cooking.
- Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If freezing, note that dairy-based soups may alter in texture when reheated, so stir well before serving.
- Serving Suggestions: Enhance the stew by serving it over homemade Buttermilk Biscuits. This not only complements the creamy texture but also adds a delightful, comforting touch to the meal.
Equipment
- Crock Pot (Slow Cooker) – If using the Crock Pot method.
- Instant Pot – If using the Instant Pot method.
- Soup Pot – For the stove top method.
- Pressure Release Valve – For use with the Instant Pot, if not already included.
- Mixing Bowls – For combining ingredients like the dumpling mixture.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups – For measuring ingredients accurately.
