Introduction

There are moments in life when food becomes more than just nourishment — it becomes love served on a plate. I still remember the day my daughter-in-law surprised me with a meal so thoughtful, it brought tears to my eyes. It wasn’t an extravagant feast; it was a simple, comforting dish made with patience, warmth, and genuine care. That day, I learned that true care doesn’t always come through grand gestures — sometimes, it’s found in a bowl of home-cooked comfort.

The recipe she made — Creamy Chicken and Vegetable Stew — has since become a family favorite, not only for its delicious taste but for the love that inspired it.

Ingredients

For the Stew:

2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 carrots, peeled and diced

2 celery stalks, chopped

1 cup diced potatoes

1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)

3 cups low-sodium chicken broth

1 cup milk or cream

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Salt and pepper to taste

½ teaspoon dried thyme

Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until lightly browned. Remove and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables begin to soften and release their aroma.

Build the Base:
Stir in the flour, coating the vegetables evenly. Slowly add chicken broth while stirring to avoid lumps.

Simmer the Stew:
Return the chicken to the pot. Add potatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

Add Creaminess:
Pour in milk or cream and stir in peas. Simmer for another 5–7 minutes, allowing the stew to thicken.

Serve with Love:
Ladle the stew into bowls and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve warm with crusty bread or rice.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving: Best served hot, right off the stove. Pair with a green salad or freshly baked biscuits for a cozy meal.

Storage: Allow the stew to cool before refrigerating in an airtight container. It keeps well for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess.

Freezing: This stew can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Variations