Comfort Food Chicken And Biscuits
Highlighted under: Heartfelt Kitchen
I absolutely love making Comfort Food Chicken and Biscuits, especially when the weather turns chilly. The aroma that fills the kitchen as the chicken simmers with herbs and spices is simply irresistible. I savor each bite of the tender chicken, smothered in a rich, creamy sauce, paired with fluffy, homemade biscuits. This dish not only warms my heart but is also a family favorite, bringing everyone to the table with just a hint of nostalgia. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a cherished staple in your home too.
When I first tried my hand at Comfort Food Chicken and Biscuits, I was on a quest for warmth during a winter storm. This recipe quickly transformed a cold evening into a cozy family gathering. The key was slowly cooking the chicken, allowing it to absorb the flavors of the broth, making it tender and juicy. Using fresh herbs instead of dried brought a vibrancy to the dish that elevated it beyond the average comfort food.
As I perfected the biscuits, I learned that folding the dough gently keeps them light and fluffy. I’ve even had guests ask for the recipe, as they couldn't believe how easy it was to achieve such heavenly flavors. This dish doesn’t just fill your stomach; it fills your soul with warmth and satisfaction!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Tender chicken simmered in a flavorful sauce that warms the soul
- Fluffy biscuits that are perfect for soaking up every last drop
- A dish that's both comforting and satisfying, making it a family favorite
Mastering the Chicken Stew
The key to a flavorful chicken stew lies in the aromatics used during the initial cooking process. When you sauté the onions, carrots, and celery, ensure they are softened and slightly caramelized, which can take about 5-7 minutes. This step releases natural sweetness, enhancing the overall depth of the stew. Don't rush it; a little extra time at medium heat can lift your dish from good to great.
Making sure the chicken thighs are cooked properly is crucial. You want to achieve tender, fall-apart chicken, which typically takes around 20 minutes of simmering in the broth. Be mindful not to boil the stew vigorously; a gentle simmer helps maintain the meat's moisture. You might notice the chicken is done when it easily pulls apart with a fork, indicating it has absorbed all those rich flavors.
Perfecting Your Biscuits
To achieve flaky, airy biscuits, it's essential to work quickly and keep the butter cold. When cutting the butter into the flour mixture, use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to ensure the butter remains in small, pea-sized lumps. This technique creates layers that contribute to a light texture. After adding the milk, remember to mix until just combined; the dough should be slightly sticky and not overworked to prevent toughness.
Baking at the right temperature is equally important. Preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) ensures the biscuits rise quickly, leading to that sought-after golden-brown exterior. Keep an eye on them as they bake; they should be ready in about 15-20 minutes, but individual ovens can vary. Look for a light golden color and a slight bounce when you gently press the tops to confirm they're done.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to get started:
For the Chicken Stew
- 1 pound chicken thighs, skinless and boneless
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup frozen peas
For the Biscuits
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 3/4 cup milk
Once you have everything laid out, you’re ready to cook!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your delicious meal:
Cook the Chicken
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened. Add garlic, thyme, and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper. Place the chicken thighs in the pot and cover with the chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes, until chicken is tender.
Prepare the Biscuits
In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in milk until just combined. Do not overmix.
Bake the Biscuits
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). On a floured surface, gently pat the dough to about 1-inch thick. Cut out biscuits using a round cutter. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, until golden brown.
Finish the Chicken Stew
After 20 minutes, add frozen peas to the chicken pot. Cook for an additional 5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Serve
Spoon the chicken stew into bowls and top with freshly baked biscuits. Enjoy immediately!
Now that everything is ready, get ready to enjoy this comforting dish!
Pro Tips
- Using fresh herbs instead of dried can make a huge difference in flavor. Also, allowing the biscuits to rest on the counter for a few minutes before baking will lead to extra flaky layers.
Variations and Additions
Feel free to customize your chicken stew by adding your favorite vegetables such as potatoes, green beans, or mushrooms. Just be sure to chop them into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. If you prefer a little heat, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can lend a nice warming touch without overpowering the dish.
For greater richness, consider adding a splash of heavy cream to the stew right before serving. This adds an extra layer of creaminess that compliments the fluffy biscuits beautifully. Alternatively, if you're looking for a lighter version, you can use low-fat milk or even a dairy-free substitute like almond milk without compromising too much on flavor.
Make-Ahead Tips
If you’re planning to prepare this dish ahead of time, the chicken stew can be made and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just save the biscuits for baking right before serving; they’re best enjoyed fresh. When it’s time to eat, simply reheat the stew on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it's warmed through.
For long-term storage, both the stew and the biscuits freeze wonderfully. Cool the stew completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat, as mentioned above. The biscuits can be baked from frozen; just increase the baking time by a few minutes.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they tend to dry out more easily, so keep an eye on the cooking time.
→ Can I make the biscuits ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the biscuit dough in advance and refrigerate it. Bake just before serving.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave.
→ Can I add other vegetables to the stew?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like potatoes, bell peppers, or green beans for more variety.
Comfort Food Chicken And Biscuits
I absolutely love making Comfort Food Chicken and Biscuits, especially when the weather turns chilly. The aroma that fills the kitchen as the chicken simmers with herbs and spices is simply irresistible. I savor each bite of the tender chicken, smothered in a rich, creamy sauce, paired with fluffy, homemade biscuits. This dish not only warms my heart but is also a family favorite, bringing everyone to the table with just a hint of nostalgia. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a cherished staple in your home too.
Created by: Adeline Morris
Recipe Type: Heartfelt Kitchen
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken Stew
- 1 pound chicken thighs, skinless and boneless
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup frozen peas
For the Biscuits
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 3/4 cup milk
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened. Add garlic, thyme, and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper. Place the chicken thighs in the pot and cover with the chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes, until chicken is tender.
In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in milk until just combined. Do not overmix.
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). On a floured surface, gently pat the dough to about 1-inch thick. Cut out biscuits using a round cutter. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, until golden brown.
After 20 minutes, add frozen peas to the chicken pot. Cook for an additional 5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Spoon the chicken stew into bowls and top with freshly baked biscuits. Enjoy immediately!
Extra Tips
- Using fresh herbs instead of dried can make a huge difference in flavor. Also, allowing the biscuits to rest on the counter for a few minutes before baking will lead to extra flaky layers.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 700mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 22g