Didier Drogba’s first goal since January 24 rescued a point for Carlo Ancelotti’s side after Jon Walters had fired Stoke ahead at the Britannia Stadium.
But the result almost certainly ended Chelsea’s remote title challenge, Ancelotti’s side now 11 points before leaders Manchester United with eight games remaining.
Manchester United’s 4-2 victory over West Ham earlier in the day meant Chelsea had to win all of their remaining nine games to stand any chance of retaining the title.