Hey there! As the cold weather sets in, I want to share a creamy, comforting Holden’s Ranch Chicken Stew Recipe that really hits the spot.
Now, Holden got this recipe from his grandma who always had a pot bubbling away on chilly days back on their ranch. It’s loaded up with cubed chicken thighs, hearty veggies like potatoes and carrots, peas and broth, all simmered together into an old-fashioned style stew.
But here’s Holden’s special twist – he adds in a packet of Ranch seasoning mix! I know, it sounds kinda weird for a stew, but trust me the dried herbs and spices kick up the flavors beautifully. Then at the end you stir in a creamy flour-butter paste that makes the most luscious gravy ever.
In just 30 minutes this hearty Ranch Chicken Stew comes together, filled to the brim with cozy, nostalgic flavors. We’re talking soul-warming comfort food here! The second that steaming spoonful with tender veggies and juicy chicken hits your mouth…pure bliss!
So let’s get simmering on Holden’s famous family recipe. Perfect to whip up on a blustery winter night!
Holden's Ranch Chicken Stew Recipe
- 2 pounds boneless chicken thighs, cubed
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 carrots, sliced
- 3 potatoes, cubed
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 packet Ranch seasoning mix
- 3 tablespoons flour
In a large pot over medium heat, combine the chicken, broth, onions, carrots and potatoes.
Sprinkle in the dry Ranch seasoning packet and stir well. Bring to a gentle simmer.
As it simmers for 15-20 minutes, the potatoes and carrots will cook through and the chicken will cook and flavor the broth.
In a small bowl, whisk 3 tablespoons of flour into 2 tablespoons of melted butter until smooth.
Pour the flour mixture into the stew, stirring constantly. This will thicken up the stew with a creamy gravy.
Finally, add the frozen peas and simmer for just 5 more minutes until heated through.
Taste and add any extra salt, pepper or ranch seasoning if desired.
Tips for Holden’s Ranch Chicken Stew Recipe
Brown your chicken and veggies in the pan first before adding all the liquid. Gets more savory caramelization and flavor infusion
Add broth gradually and let it bubble away on low heat for maximum simmer time. This melds the flavors together beautifully
Use starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds for the best thickening and creamy texture in the broth
Whisk the butter and flour paste super smooth before adding to the stew. Any lumps will make the gravy gritty
The exact amount of thickening paste depends on how thick you want your gravy!
Stir the flour mixture in very slowly at the end, while the stew simmers. Fast stirring makes clumping!
Pick good crunchy veggies like carrots and celery for nice hearty bites. They hold up well and absorb all that yummy gravy
Finally, adjust your seasonings at the very end to balance flavors. You want savory, creamy, with just a little herby zing!
Serving Tips for Holden’s Ranch Chicken Stew
First up – I like to sprinkle a little extra chopped parsley over the top just before bringing it to the table. Gives it a nice pop of color and freshness. Oooh and shaved parmesan too for extra richness!
Be sure to use a big ol’ spoon to scoop out generous portions. We want juicy, tender chicken chunks and at least 2 hearty veggies in each serving! Drizzle all that creamy gravy right on top.
Serve with a loaf of freshly baked bread on the side so folks can tear off pieces and let it soak up the broth. Mmm, I can smell that deliciousness now!
You gotta have some crispy crackers too for crumbling over the stew to add another layer of texture. Plus they catch all that yummy gravy! Ranch water crackers or oyster crackers are perfect.
And finally, a little side salad of mixed greens, tomato and cucumber balances out this rich, hearty main meal. Trust me though, no one is worrying about calories here! Just pure comfort.
Alright now stop listening to me chatter and dig into this stick-to-your-ribs wonderfulness! Enjoy every last cozy bite :)
Holden’s Ranch Chicken Stew Recipe Ingredient Substitutes
Chicken: Can use bone-in chicken pieces, turkey, or even chickpeas!
Broth: Swap regular broth for vegetable or mushroom broth. Or use water.
Potatoes: Sub in sweet potatoes, cauliflower, parsnips instead.
Carrots: Good substitutes are celery, corn, bell peppers, or any veggie!
Peas: Replace with any frozen veggie like green beans, edamame or Brussels sprouts.
Ranch Packet: Use any dry soup mix packet – chicken, mushroom, vegetable, etc.
Flour: Can sub cornstarch, arrowroot powder, or quick cooking tapioca.
Butter: Instead of butter, use olive oil or bacon grease.
See? Tons of options for personalizing based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences! The stew foundation stays the same but flavors change.
Conclusion
And there you have it – a comforting, creamy ranch-flavored chicken stew chock full of tender chicken and veggies. Thanks to Holden’s clever yet easy simmering method and special seasoning twist.
Whipping up this hearty 30-minute stew is a no-brainer way to warmth on chilly nights. Loaded with cozy, nostalgic flavors everyone craves.
Thanks for cooking along! Now go relax and enjoy big soothing bowls of this soul-warming goodness.
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