Soft pieces of chicken simmered in a smooth, creamy base turn this stew into a comforting winter meal that feels both simple and satisfying.
Prep & Cook Time
Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: 45 minutes
Total: 1 hour
Ingredients
1½ lb boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into large pieces
2 tbsp olive oil
3 tbsp butter
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
3 cups chicken broth
1 cup whole milk
½ cup heavy cream
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp dried thyme
Instructions
Warm the olive oil and butter together in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until lightly golden on the outside, then remove and set aside.
Using the same pot, add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook while stirring until softened and lightly coated in the remaining fat.
Stir in the garlic and sprinkle the flour over the vegetables. Cook briefly, stirring constantly, until the flour is fully absorbed and no dry spots remain.
Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring to create a smooth base. Bring to a gentle simmer, then return the chicken to the pot.
Lower the heat and cook uncovered for 25 minutes, allowing the chicken to become tender and the stew to thicken naturally.
Finish by stirring in the milk, heavy cream, salt, black pepper, and thyme. Cook for a few more minutes until the texture is creamy and cohesive.
Nutrition Facts (approx, per serving)
Calories: 430
Protein: 30g
Carbs: 18g
Fat: 28g
Quick Facts
• one-pot
• cold weather comfort
• family approved
• freezer friendly
Tips
Cooking the flour directly with the vegetables removes any raw taste and ensures a smoother final texture.
Keeping the simmer gentle prevents the cream from separating and keeps the stew silky.
Cutting the chicken into larger pieces helps it stay juicy during cooking.
Variations
For a deeper flavor, a small amount of Dijon-style mustard can be whisked into the broth before adding the cream. This subtle touch brings a gentle tang that enhances the richness without overwhelming the stew.
Adding sliced mushrooms along with the vegetables provides extra body and a savory note that complements the creamy base. If you’re looking for another comforting meal with tender chicken and rich texture, consider trying this Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings. It’s an easy, family-friendly option that delivers similar warmth.
A handful of frozen corn stirred in at the end adds both sweetness and color without extending the cooking time. You might also enjoy this Chicken à la King Recipe, which offers a creamy sauce and a mix of chicken and vegetables in a classic presentation.