❄️ Cozy Up This Winter with My Ultimate Creamy Chicken & Herb Stew 🍲

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 ❄️ Cozy Up This Winter with My Ultimate Creamy Chicken & Herb Stew 🍲

Because nothing says winter like a pot of soul-hugging stew on the stove.



Hey friends,

Winter is here in full swing, icy mornings, wool socks, and that unmistakable urge to wrap yourself in a blanket burrito. If you’re anything like me, that also means craving something warm, hearty, and nourishing. Today I’m sharing a recipe that has become my go-to winter comfort dish: Creamy Chicken & Herb Stew.




This stew is everything. It’s creamy without being heavy, packed with tender chicken, root veggies, and a bouquet of fresh herbs. It simmers low and slow, filling your home with the kind of aroma that makes neighbors jealous and hearts melt.

Let’s get into it. You’re going to want seconds, maybe thirds.



🍗 Creamy Chicken & Herb Stew

Serves: 4 - 6 | Prep: 20 min | Cook: 1 hour

Ingredients:

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts), cubed

  • Salt & pepper to taste

  • 1 medium onion, diced

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 3 carrots, peeled and sliced

  • 2 celery stalks, chopped

  • 2 potatoes, cubed (Yukon Gold is perfect)

  • 1 tsp dried thyme

  • 1 tsp dried rosemary

  • ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional but magical)

  • 4 cups chicken broth

  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)

  • 2 tsp cornstarch + 2 tsp cold water (for thickening)

  • Fresh parsley or dill for garnish


🔥 Instructions:

  1. Brown the chicken:
     Heat olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then brown it on all sides. Remove and set aside (you want those golden bits!).

  2. Sauté aromatics:
     In the same pot, sauté onion until soft and fragrant; about 4 minutes. Add garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook another 3 - 4 minutes.

  3. Add herbs & spices:
     Stir in thyme, rosemary, and smoked paprika. Let the herbs bloom for a minute.

  4. Simmer the magic:
     Return chicken to the pot. Add potatoes and pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 30 minutes, partially covered.

  5. Make it creamy:
     Stir in the cream. Mix cornstarch with cold water and stir it in to thicken the stew. Simmer for another 10 minutes until creamy and luscious.

  6. Taste & serve:
     Adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle into bowls and top with fresh parsley or dill. Serve with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for next-level comfort.


🍽️ Cozy Tips:

  • Make it ahead: This stew tastes even better the next day. Perfect for meal prepping!

  • Add-ins: Mushrooms, leeks, or even kale can level up the nutrition without sacrificing flavor.

  • Dairy-free option? Sub cream for coconut milk. It adds a rich, nutty twist!


🧡 Final Thoughts

This creamy stew is more than a meal; it's a warm hug in a bowl. Whether you're snowed in or just need to slow down and savor something comforting, this dish is your winter companion.

If you try it out, drop a comment or tag me in your photos. I love seeing your cozy creations!

Until next spoonful,
 – Francouis

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