When it comes to hearty comfort food, few dishes can rival Ina Garten’s Chicken Stew with Biscuits. This beloved recipe combines a creamy chicken stew filled with tender vegetables and flaky buttermilk biscuits baked to golden perfection. Perfect for cold nights or family dinners, this dish showcases Ina Garten’s mastery of creating simple yet elevated meals. Whether you are cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this stew promises warmth, satisfaction, and a touch of culinary elegance.

TL;DR

Ina Garten’s Chicken Stew with Biscuits is a classic comfort food.
Features tender chicken, creamy stew, and flaky biscuits.
Requires basic ingredients like chicken breasts, carrots, and butter.
Perfect for cozy dinners, entertaining, or meal prepping.
Recipe uses simple techniques with impressive results.

Recipe Overview

Key Components

Chicken Stew with Biscuits consists of two main elements: the creamy chicken stew and the buttery biscuits. The stew combines shredded chicken breasts, hearty vegetables like carrots, onions, and celery, and a velvety base made from chicken stock, heavy cream, and a roux. The biscuits, made with flour, butter, and buttermilk, are light and fluffy, adding the perfect textural contrast to the stew.

Preparation Time

The recipe takes about 30 minutes for preparation and 1 hour for cooking. This makes it manageable for a weeknight dinner while still feeling special enough for an occasion.

Servings

This dish serves 4-6 people, making it ideal for family meals or small gatherings. It also reheats well, making it a great make-ahead option.

Flavor Profile

The dish is savory and rich, with a creamy base and fresh herbaceous notes from thyme and parsley. The biscuits offer a buttery, slightly tangy flavor that perfectly complements the stew.

ina garten chicken stew with biscuits recipe

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Ingredients

4 chicken breasts cooked and shredded
2 cups carrots diced
1 cup onions diced
1 cup celery diced
4 tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic minced
1/3 cup flour
4 cups chicken stock
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup frozen peas
2 tablespoons fresh thyme chopped (or 2 teaspoons dried thyme)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped (or 2 teaspoons dried parsley)
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Biscuits
2 cups flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup cold butter diced
3/4 cup buttermilk

Instructions

Preparing the Stew

Sauté the onions, carrots, and celery in butter until tender. Add minced garlic for an extra layer of flavor.
Make a roux by sprinkling flour over the vegetables and stirring until combined. Gradually add chicken stock and simmer until the mixture thickens.
Stir in shredded chicken breasts, frozen peas, and heavy cream. Simmer for a few minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Season with salt, pepper, and chopped thyme.

Making the Biscuits

In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Stir in buttermilk until the dough just comes together.
Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut into rounds using a biscuit cutter.

Baking the Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F.
Transfer the stew to a Dutch oven or casserole dish.
Place the biscuit rounds on top of the stew.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and cooked through.

Essential Proteins and Vegetables

The stew uses chicken breasts as the main protein. They are cooked until tender, shredded, and added back into the stew. For those with dietary preferences, substitutions like turkey or tofu can work well as alternative proteins. Vegetables like carrots, onions, and celery provide flavor and texture, while frozen peas add a touch of sweetness and vibrant color.

Dairy and Thickeners

Butter and heavy cream form the base of the creamy stew. For those who are lactose intolerant or vegan, consider using dairy-free alternatives such as plant-based butter, coconut cream, or almond milk. A roux made with flour ensures a thick, luscious consistency. For the biscuits, buttermilk adds tanginess and moisture, but options like soy milk with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice can provide a similar effect. Baking powder ensures a fluffy texture.

Herbs and Seasonings

Thyme and parsley enhance the dish with their fresh, aromatic qualities. If fresh herbs aren’t available, dried thyme and parsley can be used as substitutes; use one-third the amount of dried herbs as you would fresh. Basic seasonings like salt and pepper balance the flavors, making the dish well-rounded and satisfying.

Presentation and Serving Tips

Plating Suggestions

Serve the dish straight from the Dutch oven or casserole dish for a rustic and cozy presentation. Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of freshness and color.

Pairings

This hearty dish pairs well with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. A glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay, complements the rich, creamy flavors.

Storing and Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F to maintain the biscuit’s texture, or microwave for a quicker option.

Why It’s a Crowd Favorite

Perfect for Any Occasion

Ina Garten’s Chicken Stew with Biscuits is versatile enough to fit any occasion. Its comforting nature makes it ideal for a cozy family dinner, while its elegant presentation works beautifully for entertaining guests.

Make-Ahead Friendly

The recipe’s components can be prepared ahead of time. The stew can be made and stored, and the biscuits can be pre-cut and refrigerated until ready to bake. This flexibility makes it a stress-free option for busy schedules.

A True Comfort Food

The combination of creamy stew and flaky biscuits embodies the essence of comfort food. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug on a cold day.

Conclusion

Ina Garten’s Chicken Stew with Biscuits is a timeless recipe that delivers on flavor, texture, and comfort. With its simple ingredients and straightforward techniques, it’s a dish that anyone can master. Whether you’re feeding your family, hosting a dinner, or simply craving something hearty, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. So grab your Dutch oven, roll out those biscuits, and enjoy a culinary classic that warms both heart and soul.