Name: Garten Chicken Stew and Biscuits Recipe for Cozy Nights
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 90 min
Ingredients: 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Adds richness and flavor; use margarine if needed.); 1 cup Chopped Yellow Onions (Provides sweetness and depth to the stew.); 1 cup Chopped Celery (Adds crunch and flavor for a well-rounded taste.); 1 cup Chopped Carrots (Offers natural sweetness and vibrant color.); 2 teaspoons Kosher Salt (Enhances and balances all other flavors beautifully.); 1 teaspoon Black Pepper (Introduces heat and depth to every spoonful.); 2/3 cup All-Purpose Flour (Thickens the stew and gives it a cozy texture.); 4 cups Chicken Stock (The foundational base; use low-sodium for lighter options.); 1 cup Heavy Cream (Adds decadent creaminess; substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version.); 3 cups Cooked Chicken (The heart of the stew; rotisserie chicken makes it easy and flavorful.); 1 cup Frozen Peas (Add sweetness and a pop of color.); 1/4 cup Chopped Parsley (Fresh herbs elevate the flavors significantly.); 1/4 cup Chopped Thyme (Fresh herbs elevate the flavors significantly.); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Creates the fluffy structure of the biscuits.); 1 tablespoon Baking Powder (Essential for achieving that perfect rise in the biscuits.); 1 tablespoon Sugar (Balances the flavors in the biscuits harmoniously.); 1/2 cup Cold Unsalted Butter (Keeps the biscuits flaky and tender.); 3/4 cup Cold Buttermilk (Moistens the dough for biscuits.); 1 large Egg (For egg wash to achieve golden-brown biscuits.); Optional Herbs (Parsley or chives for aromatic twist.)

As the evening chill settles in, there’s nothing quite like the warm embrace of a hearty meal. Today, I’m thrilled to share my take on Ina Garten’s Chicken Stew and Biscuits recipe, a true comfort food that transforms a simple weeknight into a cherished family gathering. This dish combines succulent chicken and a medley of fresh vegetables, all bubbling in a creamy sauce, topped by fluffy buttermilk biscuits that are golden and inviting. Not only is this recipe a breeze to whip up in just 1 hour and 30 minutes, but it also fills your home with mouthwatering aromas that beckon everyone to the table. It’s the perfect choice for those who crave homemade goodness without the hassle. Ready to create a dish that wraps your loved ones in warmth? Let’s dive in!

Why Is This Stew So Irresistible?

Comforting Delight: This Garten Chicken Stew and Biscuits recipe is the definition of cozy eating, with tender chicken and vibrant veggies swimming in a luscious cream sauce.
Quick & Effortless: In just 1 hour and 30 minutes, you can create a meal that feels like it took hours to prepare, allowing you more time with loved ones.
Family-Friendly: This recipe serves 6, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings and is sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
Fluffy Biscuit Heaven: The fluffy buttermilk biscuits crown the stew, adding a buttery, soft touch that everyone will love. Want more comforting ideas? Check out our easy Crockpot Chicken Gravy for another delightful twist!
Versatile Options: With suggestions for ingredient swaps and variations, like adding corn or going gluten-free, you can customize it to fit your family’s tastes.
Aromatherapy Included: The savory scents wafting through your kitchen will draw everyone in, turning mealtime into a heartwarming gathering.

Garten Chicken Stew and Biscuits Ingredients

For the Stew

Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and flavor; use margarine if needed.
Chopped Yellow Onions – Provides sweetness and depth to the stew.
Chopped Celery – Adds crunch and flavor for a well-rounded taste.
Chopped Carrots – Offers natural sweetness and vibrant color.
Kosher Salt – Enhances and balances all other flavors beautifully.
Black Pepper – Introduces heat and depth to every spoonful.
All-Purpose Flour (2/3 cup) – Thickens the stew and gives it a cozy texture.
Chicken Stock – The foundational base; use low-sodium for lighter options.
Heavy Cream – Adds decadent creaminess; substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version.
Cooked Chicken – The heart of the stew; rotisserie chicken makes it easy and flavorful.
Frozen Peas – Add sweetness and a pop of color, enhancing visual appeal.
Chopped Parsley & Thyme – Fresh herbs elevate the flavors significantly.

For the Biscuits

All-Purpose Flour (2 cups) – Creates the fluffy structure of the biscuits.
Baking Powder – Essential for achieving that perfect rise in the biscuits.
Sugar – Balances the flavors in the biscuits harmoniously.
Cold Unsalted Butter – Keeps the biscuits flaky and tender; essential for texture.
Cold Buttermilk – Moistens the dough for biscuits; substitute with milk + lemon juice if needed.
Egg – For egg wash to achieve golden-brown biscuits.
Optional Herbs (parsley/chives) – Adds an aromatic twist to the biscuits if desired.

Embrace the goodness of this Garten Chicken Stew and Biscuits recipe—easy to prepare and perfect for cozy nights with family!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Garten Chicken Stew And Biscuits Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Stew Base
In a large pot, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat until it sizzles. Add chopped yellow onions, celery, and carrots, sautéing for 7-10 minutes until the vegetables soften and onions are translucent. This fragrant base will enhance the flavors of your Garten Chicken Stew, creating a savory foundation.

Step 2: Add Flavorings
Stir in 2 teaspoons of kosher salt, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, and 2/3 cup of all-purpose flour. Cook this mixture for 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously to create a roux. This will thicken the stew and add a rich flavor profile, preparing it for the next delicious ingredients.

Step 3: Incorporate Liquids
Gradually pour in 4 cups of chicken stock and 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens and bubbles gently. The creamy texture will bring your Garten Chicken Stew to life, making it comforting and hearty.

Step 4: Add Chicken and Peas
Fold in 3 cups of cooked chicken and 1 cup of frozen peas, stirring gently to combine. Let the stew simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the chicken to warm through and the peas to soften. You’ll see the colors harmonizing beautifully in this luscious stew.

Step 5: Make the Biscuit Dough
In a separate bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Cut in 1/2 cup of cold unsalted butter using a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial for achieving the fluffy texture of your biscuits.

Step 6: Assemble Biscuits
Stir in 3/4 cup of cold buttermilk until just combined; be careful not to overmix the dough. Drop spoonfuls of the biscuit mixture onto the bubbling stew, evenly distributing it over the surface to create fluffy biscuit tops as they bake. This delightful topping will bake right above the savory stew.

Step 7: Bake
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake the stew uncovered for 25-30 minutes. The biscuits should be golden brown and the stew bubbling joyfully at the edges. This final step transforms your Garten Chicken Stew and Biscuits into a warm, inviting dish ready to be savored.

Expert Tips for Garten Chicken Stew and Biscuits

Choose Quality Chicken: Use high-quality, cooked chicken for richer flavor. Rotisserie chicken is perfect, saving preparation time.
Avoid Overmixing: When making the biscuit dough, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough biscuits, ruining their fluffiness.
Cold Ingredients: Keep butter and buttermilk cold to ensure flaky biscuits. Warm ingredients can lead to dense, chewy textures instead of light and airy ones.
Egg Wash Boost: For an attractive golden brown top, brush the biscuit dough with an egg wash before baking. This simple step enhances presentation.
Season Generously: Don’t skimp on seasonings in the stew; they enhance the dish’s overall flavor. Taste and adjust salt and pepper for your preference.
Flavorful Herbs: Feel free to add extra herbs like thyme or rosemary for a more aromatic experience in your Garten Chicken Stew and Biscuits recipe.

Make Ahead Options

This Garten Chicken Stew and Biscuits recipe is perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weeknights! You can prepare the stew base (steps 1-4) up to 3 days in advance. Simply let it cool, transfer it to an airtight container, and refrigerate. For the biscuits, you can mix the dry ingredients (steps 5-6) and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to enjoy your delicious stew, simply reheat the stew on the stove and drop the biscuit dough on top (do not forget to adjust cooking times slightly), baking until golden and inviting. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have a warm, comforting meal with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Ina Garten Chicken Stew and Biscuits?

Imagine a table set for comfort and warmth, where every bite feels like a hug from home.

Steamed Green Beans: These crisp-tender veggies add a fresh, vibrant contrast to the creamy stew, balancing flavors beautifully. Their bright green color lifts the dish visually, making it even more inviting.
Mixed Greens Salad: A light, refreshing salad with a zesty vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the stew. The crunch of fresh greens adds a delightful texture that complements each bite.
Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with roasted garlic provide a luxurious pairing, enhancing the hearty flavors of the chicken stew while keeping the comfort theme alive. They’re perfect for scooping up those delicious stew juices!
Cheesy Garlic Bread: Golden, buttery slices with a hint of garlic and rich cheese offer a warm, indulgent side that pairs excellently with the stew. Plus, who can resist a bit of bread for dipping?
Savory Cornbread: This slightly sweet and crumbly bread channels Southern charm and enhances the comfort food experience. Serve it with honey butter for a delightful twist.
Chardonnay or Light White Wine: A chilled glass of white wine beautifully complements the creamy richness of the stew. Its crisp acidity balances flavors, making each sip a refreshing interlude.
Apple Crisp for Dessert: End the meal on a sweet note with a warm apple crisp topped with vanilla ice cream. The warm spices echo the comforting feel of the stew, making it a perfect finish.
Herb-Infused Water: Refreshing herbal-infused water with lemon or mint keeps hydration light and invigorating, enhancing the comfort of your meal without being overpowering.

How to Store and Freeze Garten Chicken Stew and Biscuits

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days, ensuring the flavors of your delicious Garten Chicken Stew remain intact.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions of the stew (without biscuits) in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave when ready to enjoy.

Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your stew, reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Bake fresh biscuits if desired for that freshly baked taste!

Biscuit Storage: If you have leftover biscuits, store them separately at room temperature in a resealable bag for up to 2 days; reheating them in the oven restores their fluffiness.

Garten Chicken Stew And Biscuits Variations

Feel free to take this comforting recipe beyond the basics and explore new flavors and textures!

Puff Pastry Top: Substitute puff pastry for biscuit topping for a flaky, buttery twist. Just roll out the pastry and cover the stew before baking.
Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut milk or almond milk in place of heavy cream and buttermilk to create a creamy, dairy-free version. This adds a unique flavor and keeps it comforting!
Gluten-Free Goodness: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for both the stew and biscuits without sacrificing flavor or texture. Gluten-free options can be just as delicious!
Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to give your stew a little heat. This twist transforms it into a cozy, warming dish for chilly nights.
Veggie Medley: Toss in seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and color. It turns this dish into a hearty garden stew while maintaining that comforting feel.
Herb-Infused: Experiment with different herbs, like rosemary or dill, to elevate the flavor profile. Fresh herbs truly make the dish pop with aromatic goodness!
Rotisserie Alternative: Use leftover turkey instead of chicken for a post-holiday twist! It adds a great flavor and takes advantage of holiday leftovers.
Biscuit Flavors: Mix 1/2 cup of shredded cheese (like cheddar or parmesan) into the biscuit dough for delightful gooeyness. Everyone will be asking for more biscuits!

For additional comforting meal inspiration, don’t forget to try our easy Apple Cider Chicken or whip up a cozy Chicken and Vegetables Skillet. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Garten Chicken Stew and Biscuits Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to choose ripe vegetables for the stew?
Absolutely! When selecting vegetables, look for vibrant colors and firm textures. For onions, aim for ones without dark spots or soft areas. Carrots should be bright orange and crisp, while celery should be sturdy and crunchy. Freshness is key to enhancing the stew’s overall flavor.

How should I store leftovers from this recipe?
For the best quality, store any leftover Garten Chicken Stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This keeps the flavors intact while allowing you to enjoy this cozy meal multiple times.

Can I freeze the chicken stew? How?
Yes! To freeze the stew, let it cool completely first, then pour it into airtight containers, leaving some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply reheat on the stove over medium heat, giving it a good stir until heated through. For the best experience, bake fresh biscuits just before serving!

What should I do if my biscuit dough is too sticky?
If you find that your biscuit dough is too sticky, don’t worry; just sprinkle a little more flour over the surface and gently fold it in until the dough is manageable. Avoid overmixing to ensure your biscuits stay deliciously fluffy.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very much so! This Garten Chicken Stew can be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for both the stew and the biscuits. Additionally, if anyone in your family has dairy allergies, you can substitute the heavy cream and buttermilk with coconut milk or a dairy-free milk alternative, ensuring everyone can enjoy a hearty meal.

Can I use raw chicken instead of cooked chicken in the stew?
While it’s possible to start with raw chicken, your cooking time will increase. If you choose to use raw chicken, be sure to sauté the chicken cubes in Step 1 with the vegetables. Cook until the chicken is browned and fully cooked before adding flour and liquids. This will ensure everything is safe and delicious!