Holden’s Ranch Chicken Stew is an easy, deliciously comforting southern recipe reminiscent of chicken and gravy (or “smothered chicken”). It begins by stirring browned, cooked chicken into a creamy base made with milk and flour to create Holden’s Ranch Chicken Stew.
Butter adds delicious flavor, working alongside flour to thicken the stewing broth. Use unsalted chicken stock so your stew doesn’t turn out too salty!
1. Cajun Chicken Stew
Cajun Chicken Stew combines the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine with tender chicken pieces, vegetables and delicious spices for an irresistibly comforting stew that is sure to warm the soul and satisfy hungry stomachs alike – it makes the ideal dish to bring joyous celebrations such as Mardi Gras or any special event.
This recipe starts off with the classic Cajun mirepoix of onion, carrot and celery before you add diced chicken breast and make your roux (see my post on how to do so).
Add tomato sauce, red kidney beans, chicken broth and bay leaves and simmer until the chicken is fully cooked through. This stew tastes even better when made ahead and frozen; alternatively serve it over rice or potatoes as desired!
2. Chicken and Dumplings
This classic chicken stew recipe is comforting, creamy, and delectable – ideal if you need something warming on a cold night!
Cook onions and garlic in butter until translucent. Whisk flour into milk mixture to form a roux; once thickened add chicken broth, vegetables, and herbs such as tarragon or dill.
Make a delicious dumpling dinner by mixing flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper together into a soft dough and dropping tablespoon by tablespoon into your simmering stew. Don’t peek; otherwise your dumplings won’t steam properly and steam evenly! Simmer for 12 minutes. Enjoy alongside bread and salad for the ideal evening dinner experience.
3. Chicken and Cornbread
No matter the occasion or meal setting, this comforting chicken stew recipe from Holden’s Ranch brings comfort and conversation to any table. Made with just three simple ingredients, making this easy dish truly effortless to create!
Mirepoix mix adds both flavor and texture, with small gold potatoes providing extra richness. A tablespoon of sugar adds sweetness, while salt, black pepper, and paprika give this dish its distinctive savory profile.
For an extra creamy stew, flour should be mixed into the milk and butter slurry at the start. Once mixed, this can then be spooned into simmering broth and mixed thoroughly before it’s time to enjoy! At the very end, heavy cream can be added for extra thickness!
4. Chicken and Greens
This flavorful and hearty recipe features fresh vegetables, herbs, and an aromatic broth. The chicken is both tenderized and seasoned without needing to marinate first as it cooks in the broth and becomes soft and delicate. Sweet potatoes add a delicious sweet note that complements its savory notes beautifully; salt pepper and paprika complete this orchestra of flavors!
Enhance this simple chicken stew recipe by stirring in some paprika or Cajun seasoning before simmering it, for extra flavor! Plus, this creamy dish reheats perfectly making it perfect for meal prep and garnished with parsley or chives for an attractive garnish if desired – or serve alongside saltine crackers for the ideal pairing experience!
5. Chicken and Potatoes
This comforting chicken stew recipe boasts tender chunks of lean chicken and delicious potatoes. As with many stews, the chicken is first browned before simmering in liquid until tender.
While the meat is simmering, vegetables are prepared in butter for sauteing with seasonings to give their flavors an infusion of fresh flavor – the classic mirepoix of carrots, onions, and celery provides essential savoriness to this classic stew dish.
Flour and butter are combined to form a roux, thickening up the stewing broth while helping develop flavors without overwhelming it.
Potatoes should be cooked until tender and the broth should be seasoned with salt and pepper for this chicken and potato stew to be eaten at dinner time, alongside some crisp green salad or crusty bread for accompaniment. Leftovers also keep well in the refrigerator, making an enjoyable lunch option!