There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of creamy chicken stew to make everything feel right again. This Creamy Chicken Stew with Peas & Tarragon is rich, comforting, and full of flavor — the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out. With tender chicken thighs, simple vegetables, fragrant herbs, and a silky cream finish, this is the ultimate weeknight comfort meal.
Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting friends, or just treating yourself, this one-pot recipe delivers big flavor without complicated steps. It’s rustic, hearty, and effortlessly delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One pot, easy cleanup
- Budget-friendly ingredients
- Creamy, but not heavy
- Perfect for meal prep
- Freezes beautifully
- Tastes even better the next day
The combination of butter, olive oil, herbs, and cream creates a stew that feels elegant but is incredibly simple to make.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- Kosher salt and black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 carrots, thinly sliced
- 1 garlic clove, minced or shaved
- 4 cups chicken broth (plus more as needed)
- ¼ cup dry white wine
- 1–2 bay leaves
- 1 tbsp fresh tarragon, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
- ½ cup half-and-half
- Sweet paprika, to taste
Instructions
1. Cook the Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a heavy pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, chopped celery, and sliced carrots. Sauté for 6–8 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Add the Chicken and Liquids
Nestle the chicken thighs into the pot. Pour in broth and white wine. Add bay leaves, tarragon, paprika, salt, and pepper. The chicken should be mostly submerged.
3. Simmer
Cover the pot and allow the stew to simmer gently for 35–45 minutes, until the chicken is tender and easy to shred.
4. Shred the Chicken
Remove the chicken thighs, shred them with forks, then return them to the pot.
5. Finish the Stew
Add peas and cook for 5 minutes. Stir in the half-and-half and warm gently — do not boil or the cream may curdle.
6. Serve & Enjoy
Remove bay leaves, taste, and adjust seasoning. Serve hot with crusty bread, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Serving Ideas
This stew is wonderful with:
- Rustic sourdough or crusty French bread
- Steamed rice or buttery mashed potatoes
- Fresh green salad for balance
- Roasted vegetables on the side
Pro Tip
This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen overnight. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
If you’re craving something cozy, creamy, and satisfying, this Creamy Chicken Stew with Peas & Tarragon should be at the top of your list. It’s simple comfort food done right — the kind of meal that feels like home.Happy cooking,
Daphne Dishes