Description

This Creamy Chicken Stew Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chunks of chicken, hearty vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth. Perfect for chilly nights or weeknight dinners, this easy-to-make recipe can be prepared on the stovetop or in a slow cooker and customized with creamy or dairy-free variations. Thick like a stew, but cozy like soup, it’s a versatile, nourishing meal your whole family will love.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 carrots, peeled and sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
3 potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 zucchini, chopped
1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
4 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1 bay leaf

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then add to the pot and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.

In the same pot, add onion and garlic. Cook for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened.

Add carrots, celery, potatoes, zucchini, and green beans. Stir and cook for another 5 minutes.

Return the chicken to the pot, then pour in diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Add thyme, parsley, and bay leaf.

Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 35–40 minutes, until vegetables are tender and chicken is cooked through.

Remove bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Serve warm with crusty bread or on its own.

Notes

Use thighs for a juicier, more flavorful stew, but breasts work well for a leaner option.
Add cream or cheese at the end of cooking for extra richness.
For freezing, make the base without dairy and stir in cream after reheating.
Taste and season in layers—don’t rely on seasoning only at the end.
Make it your own with additional veggies, grains, or spice levels.
Perfect with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or on its own.