Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe

There’s something so comforting about a bowl of homemade chicken stew, don’t you agree? I still remember the first time I made this dish for a cozy gathering with friends. The aroma of simmering chicken and vegetables filled the kitchen, making it feel like a warm hug on a chilly evening. As we gathered around the table, the laughter and chatter were punctuated by the clinking of spoons against bowls, and each bite seemed to melt away the day’s stress.

If you’re looking for a recipe that’s simple yet utterly satisfying, this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is it. It’s the kind of dish that can turn an ordinary weekday dinner into something memorable. And the best part? It’s practically foolproof and calls for minimal active cooking time thanks to the magic of the slow cooker!

Why you’ll love this recipe

This chicken stew is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The layers of flavor from the sautéed chicken and garlic mingle beautifully with the sweetness of the carrots and the earthiness of the potatoes. Each ingredient contributes to a hearty, soul-warming blend that feels like home. What makes this recipe particularly special is its adaptability—perfect for a chilly evening or a last-minute get-together.

Cooking this dish tonight means you’ll be doing more than just filling your belly; you’ll be creating a comforting atmosphere. You can even toss in whatever vegetables you have lying around, making it a flexible staple in your kitchen. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, which means fewer dishes to wash. Now isn’t that something we can all appreciate?

Gather these ingredients

Let’s gather the stars of the show:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts: I prefer thighs for their rich flavor and tender texture, but feel free to use breasts if that’s what you have on hand.

• 3 carrots, diced: Their natural sweetness adds a lovely balance to the stew, and they hold up beautifully in the slow cooker.

• 3 celery stalks, diced: Celery doesn’t just bring crunch; it adds an aromatic backbone that makes the stew feel rustic.

• 1 onion, diced: A must for depth! Sauté it with the chicken for a sweet, caramelized essence.

• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed: You can use Yukon Gold or Russets here. They give the stew its heartiness, and they absorb all the delicious flavors.

• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Is there anything better than the smell of garlic simmering? It’s practically the definition of comfort in cooking.

• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Going low-sodium allows you to control the saltiness while still packing in flavor.

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste: This adds a subtle tang and richness to the broth, elevating the whole dish.

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Dried herbs are great for slow cooking; they release their flavor gradually, melding into the dish.

• 2 bay leaves: Don’t forget to remove these before serving—they’re great for flavor but not to be eaten!

• Salt and pepper, to taste: Seasoning is key to enhancing the beautiful flavors of the stew.

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (optional): For those who like a thicker stew, this can be a game-changer. Just mix it with some broth before adding.

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional): A sprinkle of fresh herbs not only looks beautiful but brightens the whole dish!

How this recipe comes together

Alright, let’s roll up our sleeves and get cooking:

1. Sear the chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of oil. Sear the chicken pieces until they’re golden brown on both sides. This step adds depth to the meat that you don’t want to skip!

2. Load up the slow cooker: Once your chicken is seared, transfer it to the slow cooker. Add the diced vegetables, cubed potatoes, minced garlic, and those lovely bay leaves.

3. Season generously: Sprinkle the thyme, salt, and pepper over everything. Give it a gentle stir. You want those aromatic qualities to spread across all the ingredients.

4. Pour in that broth: This is where the magic starts. Add the chicken broth to the mix. If you’re using flour for thickness, whisk it with a bit of the broth first, and then stir it into the pot.

5. Set it and forget it: Cover your slow cooker and set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. You want the chicken to be tender and the vegetables to be just right—not mushy!

6. Final touches: When it’s done, remove the bay leaves and taste for seasoning. You might want to adjust with a bit more salt or pepper. Serve up your hearty stew in bowls, garnished with chopped parsley for that finishing touch.

Best way to enjoy it

This stew is a hearty meal all on its own, but if you’re feeling a little extra fancy, why not serve it with some crusty bread? A warm baguette or a slice of sourdough makes for a perfect companion to soak up that delicious broth. You could also accompany it with a simple green salad drizzled with olive oil and a splash of vinegar. The freshness of the salad cuts through the richness of the stew, creating a dynamic meal.

Keeping leftovers fresh

So, what about the leftovers? If you’re lucky enough to have some, storing your stew is a breeze. Transfer it to airtight containers and keep it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to make it last longer, this stew freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers—just remember to label them! It’ll keep for about 2-3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, let it thaw overnight in the fridge and heat it up in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Helpful cooking tips

Here are a few pro tips to elevate your stew experience:

• Don’t rush the searing: Let your chicken get a nice crust before you toss it in the slow cooker. It makes all the difference!

• Season in layers: You can season your broth with additional herbs or spices, like a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne if you’re looking for a kick.

• Explore your veggies: Feel free to sneak in some parsnips, green beans, or even mushrooms if you have them handy. It’s like giving your stew a little personality!

Creative Twists

Want to experiment? Here are a few ideas:

• Herb swaps: Swap out the thyme for rosemary or oregano for a different flavor profile.

• A little heat: Toss in some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicier version.

• Coconut curry twist: Replace the broth with coconut milk and add curry powder. It’s an adventurous take that’s incredibly satisfying!

Common questions

1. Can I use frozen chicken? Absolutely! Just throw it in the slow cooker; it will thaw and cook beautifully over those long hours.

2. Is this stew gluten-free? You can easily make it gluten-free by omitting the flour or using a gluten-free flour blend.

3. How do I know when it’s done? The chicken should shred easily with a fork, and the veggies should be tender but still maintain their shape.

4. How do I adjust the serving size? This recipe can easily be halved or doubled based on your needs; simply keep the same ratios.

5. Can I add beans? Yes, adding canned beans in the last hour of cooking can boost protein and add texture!

This chicken stew is more than just a dish; it’s a chance to create memories and gather around the table. With each bite, you can feel the love and effort poured into it. You’ll find it to be not only delicious but also nourishing for the soul. I can’t wait for you to try it! Don’t be shy—experiment, play with the flavors, and let me know how it goes in the comments! Happy cooking!

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Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time Cook Time Total Time 21 hrs

Cooking Temp: low  C Servings: 6 Estimated Cost: $ 15 Calories: 300

Best Season: any

Description

A comforting Slow Cooker Chicken Stew that's easy to prepare and perfect for chilly evenings.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

Main Ingredients

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts (Chicken thighs are recommended for flavor.)
• 3 carrots, diced (Adds natural sweetness.)
• 3 celery stalks, diced (Brings aromatic flavor.)
• 1 onion, diced (For depth and sweetness.)
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed (Yukon Gold or Russets recommended.)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced (Defines comfort in cooking.)
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth (Control the saltiness.)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste (Adds richness to the broth.)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (Releases flavor gradually.)
• 2 bay leaves (Remove before serving.)
• Salt and pepper, to taste (Enhances flavors.)
• ¹⁄₄ cup all-purpose flour (optional) (For thickening the stew.)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional) (Adds freshness and color.)

Cooking Instructions

Preparation Steps

1. Sear the chicken

   Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of oil. Sear the chicken pieces until they are golden brown on both sides.
   This adds depth to the meat.
   Mark as complete

2. Load up the slow cooker

   Transfer the seared chicken to the slow cooker. Add the diced vegetables, cubed potatoes, minced garlic, and bay leaves.
   Mark as complete

3. Season generously

   Sprinkle thyme, salt, and pepper over everything and give it a gentle stir.
   Ensure all ingredients are seasoned.
   Mark as complete

4. Pour in the broth

   Add the chicken broth to the mix. If using flour, whisk it with some broth first before adding it.
   Mark as complete

5. Set it and forget it

   Cover and set the slow cooker to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
   Chicken should be tender and veggies not mushy.
   Mark as complete

6. Final touches

   Once done, remove bay leaves, check seasoning, and adjust as necessary. Serve with fresh parsley on top.
   Mark as complete

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 300kcal

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 10g16%

Saturated Fat 2g10%

Cholesterol 80mg27%

Sodium 500mg21%

Potassium 800mg23%

Total Carbohydrate 30g10%

Dietary Fiber 5g20%

Sugars 4g

Protein 25g50%

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Vitamin A 2000 IU

Vitamin C 15 mg

Calcium 30 mg

Iron 3 mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Great for using leftover veggies.

Keywords: chicken stew, slow cooker, comfort food, healthy