Dinner

Creamy Chicken Stew with Leeks, Mustard, and Peas Recipe

ByLuna Ryder November 19, 2025November 19, 2025

Introduction

This creamy chicken stew is a comforting dish perfect for any night of the week. Tender chicken thighs simmered with leeks, peas, and a rich sauce make for a deliciously satisfying meal. The crispy breadcrumb topping adds a wonderful texture contrast.

A black round pan filled with six golden-brown baked chicken pieces layered on a creamy white sauce with green peas scattered throughout; the chicken pieces have a crispy textured topping that is browned and slightly crunchy. The pan is held by a woman's hand on the bottom right corner and placed on a white marbled surface with a white napkin underneath it. A gold spoon lies beside the pan on top of the white napkin. The overall look is warm and inviting, with a mix of creamy, crispy, and smooth textures visible. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 leeks, halved and finely sliced
2 tbsp olive oil, plus extra if needed
1 tbsp butter
8 small chicken thighs
500ml chicken stock
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
75g crème fraîche
200g frozen peas
3 tbsp dried or fresh breadcrumbs
small bunch of parsley, finely chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Tip the leeks and olive oil into a flameproof casserole dish on low heat, add the butter, and cook gently for 10 minutes or until the leeks are soft.
Step 2: Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in a large non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Cook until the skin browns, then turn and brown the other side. Add a little oil if the skin begins to stick. Transfer the chicken to the casserole dish with the leeks, leaving any fat behind in the pan.
Step 3: Pour the chicken stock into the casserole dish and bring to a simmer. Season well, cover, and cook on low for 30 minutes.
Step 4: Stir in the Dijon mustard, crème fraîche, and frozen peas. Bring the stew back to a simmer; it should have a generous amount of sauce.
Step 5: When ready to serve, preheat the grill. Mix the breadcrumbs with the chopped parsley, sprinkle this mixture over the chicken, and grill until the topping is browned and crisp.

Tips & Variations

For extra depth of flavor, add a splash of white wine to the stock before simmering.
You can substitute crème fraîche with sour cream or Greek yogurt for a slightly tangier taste.
Fresh breadcrumbs provide a better texture but dried work well in a pinch.
Add some chopped carrots or mushrooms with the leeks for a more vegetable-rich stew.

Storage

Store any leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. To maintain the breadcrumb topping’s crispness, you may want to add it fresh before serving again.