Name: Comforting Chicken Stew and Biscuits for Cozy Nights
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 90 min
Ingredients: 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Substitute with olive oil for a lighter option.); 1 medium Chopped Yellow Onion (Provides sweetness and depth.); 2 stalks Chopped Celery (Can replace with bok choy for a different texture.); 2 medium Chopped Carrots (Substitute with parsnips if desired.); 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt (Use regular salt sparingly as it can be saltier.); 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper (For less heat, use white pepper.); 0.25 cup All-Purpose Flour (for stew) (Use cornstarch for a gluten-free alternative.); 4 cups Chicken Stock (Homemade stock is preferred but store-bought is fine.); 1 cup Heavy Cream (Substitute with coconut milk for dairy-free.); 2 cups Cooked Chicken (cubed or shredded) (Rotisserie chicken makes prep easier.); 1 cup Frozen Peas (Substitute with green beans for a different flavor.); 0.25 cup Chopped Parsley (For garnish and freshness.); 1 teaspoon Chopped Thyme (Substitute with dried thyme (1 tsp) or omit.); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (for biscuits) (Can substitute gluten-free flour.); 1 tablespoon Baking Powder (Necessary for texture.); 1 tablespoon Sugar (Omit for savory biscuits.); 0.5 cup Cold Unsalted Butter (Use vegetable shortening for a vegan option.); 0.75 cup Cold Buttermilk (Substitute with milk mixed with vinegar or lemon juice.); 1 tablespoon Optional Herbs (parsley/chives) (Omit if not available.); 1 large Egg + Water (for egg wash) (Omit for a non-egg wash finish.)

As I stood in my kitchen, the rich aroma of my simmering Chicken Stew and Biscuits enveloped me, instantly whisking me back to cozy family gatherings. Ina Garten’s recipe for this comforting classic has become my go-to for those chilly evenings when all I crave is warmth and a bit of nostalgia. This easy recipe marries tender chicken and hearty vegetables in a creamy broth, topped with golden, fluffy biscuits that bake to perfection. Not only does it promise a delightful family meal in about 90 minutes, but it’s also versatile enough to cater to special dietary needs, with gluten-free options available. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet night in, this dish is designed to satisfy. Are you ready to dive into a bowl of comfort?

Why is Chicken Stew with Biscuits special?

Comforting: This dish delivers warmth and nostalgia, making it perfect for chilly nights.
Hearty Ingredients: A blend of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and creamy broth creates an irresistible meal.
Versatile: Easily customize it with gluten-free flour or seasonal veggies to make it your own.
Satisfying: The fluffy, golden biscuits on top provide that ultimate homemade feel, complementing the rich stew beneath.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 90 minutes, it’s a reliable choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
If you enjoy hearty meals, you may also like Garlic Parmesan Chicken or Chicken Waffle Casserole for a flavorful family dinner!

Chicken Stew and Biscuits Ingredients

For the Stew

Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and flavor; substitute with olive oil for a lighter option.
Chopped Yellow Onions – Provides sweetness and depth; no substitutions needed for flavor.
Chopped Celery – Adds crunch and flavor; can replace with bok choy for a different texture.
Chopped Carrots – Contributes sweetness and color; substitute with parsnips if desired.
Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor; use regular salt sparingly as it can be saltier.
Black Pepper – Adds a warm spice; for less heat, use white pepper.
All-Purpose Flour (for stew) – Thickens the stew; use cornstarch for a gluten-free alternative.
Chicken Stock – Forms the base of the stew for rich flavor; homemade stock is preferred but store-bought is fine.
Heavy Cream – Adds creaminess and richness; substitute with coconut milk for dairy-free.
Cooked Chicken (cubed or shredded) – Main protein source; rotisserie chicken makes prep easier.
Frozen Peas – Provides freshness and color; substitute with green beans for a different flavor.
Chopped Parsley – For garnish and freshness; omit if unavailable.
Chopped Thyme – Adds earthy flavor; substitute with dried thyme (1 tsp) or omit.

For the Biscuits

All-Purpose Flour (for biscuits) – Gives structure to biscuits; can substitute gluten-free flour.
Baking Powder – Helps biscuits rise; no substitutes; necessary for texture.
Sugar – Balances flavors; omit for savory biscuits.
Cold Unsalted Butter – Key for flaky texture in biscuits; use vegetable shortening for a vegan option.
Cold Buttermilk – Adds tanginess; substitute with milk mixed with vinegar or lemon juice.
Optional Herbs (parsley/chives) – For extra flavor in biscuits; omit if not available.
Egg + Water (for egg wash) – Creates a shiny crust; omit for a non-egg wash finish.

Let’s get cooking! The delightful combination of chicken stew and biscuits is sure to become a beloved meal in your home.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Stew And Biscuits

Step 1: Prep Stew Base
In a large pot, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat until it’s bubbling gently. Add in 1 chopped yellow onion, 2 chopped celery stalks, and 2 chopped carrots; sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. Stir in 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and ¼ cup of all-purpose flour, cooking for an additional 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.

Step 2: Build Stew
Pour 4 cups of chicken stock and 1 cup of heavy cream into the pot, stirring well to incorporate the flour mixture for a creamy base. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, adding 2 cups of cooked chicken (cubed or shredded) and 1 cup of frozen peas. Allow the stew to simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until it’s heated through and slightly thickened, with small bubbles forming around the edges.

Step 3: Prepare Biscuits
While the stew simmers, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Cut in ½ cup of cold unsalted butter using a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Slowly add in ¾ cup of cold buttermilk, stirring just until combined — be careful not to overmix for fluffy biscuits.

Step 4: Bake
Once your biscuit dough is ready, spoon generous dollops over the simmering chicken stew. Spread the dough evenly across the top, covering as much of the stew as possible. Transfer the pot to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the biscuits rise beautifully and turn golden brown, with the stew bubbling beneath.

Step 5: Serve
Once baked, remove the chicken stew and biscuits from the oven; let it cool slightly for a few minutes. For an added touch, garnish with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or thyme if you have them on hand. Serve the delightful Chicken Stew and Biscuits hot, enjoying the comforting aroma and hearty flavors that warm both your belly and your heart.

Chicken Stew And Biscuits Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own with these delightful twists!

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for both the stew and biscuit for a deliciously inclusive option.
Dairy-Free: Swap heavy cream with coconut milk for a rich and creamy, dairy-free alternative that still satisfies.
Protein Swap: Try shredded rotisserie turkey instead of chicken for a festive twist around the holidays.
Veggie Boost: Add corn or diced potatoes to amp up the heartiness of the stew, making it even more filling.
Flavor Kick: Incorporate a splash of white wine or sherry during the stew-building step for a deeper flavor profile.

For those who enjoy a little heat, stir in red pepper flakes while cooking for a gentle warmth. On the flip side, you can also make it mild by leaving out the black pepper entirely. Serve it all with a side of crispy green salad for a refreshing balance. If you’re in the mood to explore more savory options, don’t miss out on making Garlic Butter Chicken or transform your leftovers into a delicious Chicken Waffle Casserole. Enjoy!

Make Ahead Options

These comforting Chicken Stew and Biscuits are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the stew base up to 3 days in advance by following the first three steps of the recipe and then refrigerating it in an airtight container. To prevent the vegetables from browning, ensure the stew is cooled to room temperature before storing. When you’re ready to finish, simply reheat the stew on the stove until heated through, then spoon the biscuit dough over the top and bake as directed. This way, you can enjoy the rich flavors of homemade Chicken Stew and Biscuits with minimal effort on busy nights!

What to Serve with Ina Garten’s Hearty Chicken Stew with Fluffy Biscuits

Nothing completes a comforting evening like a carefully curated spread to accompany your warm bowl of goodness.

Crisp Green Salad: A light salad adds a refreshing crunch, balancing the creaminess of the stew beautifully.
Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery garlic bread complements the stew while adding that delightful crunch for dipping.
Roasted Root Vegetables: Their earthy sweetness enhances the rich flavors of the stew and adds textural variety to your meal.
Cornbread: Soft, slightly sweet cornbread contrasts perfectly with savory flavors and is perfect for sopping up the delicious broth.
Steamed Asparagus or Green Beans: Bright and fresh veggies provide a pop of color on the plate and lighten the overall meal experience.
Refreshing White Wine: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully, complementing the richness with its crisp acidity.
Apple Crisp for Dessert: A warm and homey dessert brings a sweet finish, echoing the comforting vibes of your chicken stew and biscuits.

How to Store and Freeze Chicken Stew and Biscuits

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days, maintaining the flavors and freshness of your Chicken Stew and Biscuits.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the biscuits lose their fluffiness, pop them in the oven for a few minutes to crisp up!

Airtight Storage: Always ensure the stew and biscuits are completely cooled before sealing in containers to avoid condensation, which may affect texture.

Expert Tips for Chicken Stew and Biscuits

Chill the Butter: Keep your cold unsalted butter in the fridge until you’re ready to cut it into the biscuit dough; this ensures a flaky texture.
Don’t Overmix: When combining biscuit ingredients, mix just until wet. Overmixing can lead to tough biscuits, which we want to avoid for our chicken stew and biscuits.
Bubbling Stew: Make sure the stew is bubbling at the edges before adding the biscuit topping. This ensures a perfectly cooked biscuit that doesn’t become soggy.
Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables like zucchini or corn for variety; it not only enhances flavor but keeps the dish fresh and exciting.
Check for Doneness: The biscuits should be golden brown on top and cooked through; if unsure, insert a toothpick into the center to check for wet dough.

Chicken Stew and Biscuits Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best ingredients for my Chicken Stew and Biscuits?
Absolutely! For optimal flavor, choose firm and vibrant vegetables without dark spots or blemishes. The chicken should be fresh, or feel free to use rotisserie chicken to save time! For herbs, fresh is always preferred, but dried herbs can work in a pinch.

How should I store leftover Chicken Stew and Biscuits?
Store leftover Chicken Stew and Biscuits in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure the stew is completely cooled before sealing it to avoid condensation. This helps keep the texture and flavor as delightful as when you first served it!

Can I freeze Chicken Stew and Biscuits?
Yes, you can! Freeze portions of the Chicken Stew and Biscuits in airtight containers for up to 3 months. To freeze, divide the stew and biscuits into individual servings, ensuring they’re tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or in the oven.

What should I do if my biscuits aren’t rising?
Very well! If your biscuits aren’t rising, double-check that your baking powder is fresh and active. Make sure your butter is cold and cut into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. Lastly, be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can cause the biscuits to be dense.

Are there any dietary considerations for my Chicken Stew and Biscuits?
Definitely! This dish can be easily modified for dietary needs. To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour for both the stew and biscuits. If dairy is a concern, swap out the heavy cream with coconut milk and use vegetable shortening in place of butter in the biscuit dough.

How can I enhance the flavor of my Chicken Stew and Biscuits?
For a flavor boost, consider adding a splash of white wine while cooking the stew or a tablespoon of Dijon mustard for some tang. You can also mix in seasonal vegetables like corn or green beans for added texture and taste, ensuring your dish is both comforting and exciting!