Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe
Looking to warm up your dinner table with a comforting, hearty meal? This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew recipe is your answer. It’s the kind of dish that hugs you from the inside out after a long day, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. What sets this stew apart is the marriage of tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and aromatic herbs, all simmered to perfection while you go about your day. Trust me, once you get a whiff of this stew as it cooks, you’ll be counting down the hours until dinner!
Why you’ll love this dish
There are countless reasons to try this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew recipe. For one, it’s incredibly easy to make—with minimal prep and hands-off cooking, you can whip up a nourishing meal without missing a beat. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, making it perfect for families or anyone looking to stretch their grocery dollars. This stew is particularly great for chilly evenings when you want something warm and filling. The flavors meld beautifully, and it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies for picky eaters.
“I made this chicken stew last week, and my kids couldn’t get enough of it! The flavors were so rich and comforting—it’s now a staple in our home!"
The cooking process explained
Making this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is simpler than you might think! Start by searing the chicken to lock in those delicious juices and enhance the taste. Next, toss everything into the slow cooker and let time work its magic. You’ll have a hearty stew ready to serve without slaving away in the kitchen.
What you’ll need
Gather these items to get started:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 3 carrots, diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Feel free to mix it up with substitutions, like using sweet potatoes instead of regular ones, or adding in your favorite vegetables.
Step-by-step instructions
- Start by searing the chicken in a hot skillet for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. This crucial step builds a depth of flavor you won’t want to miss!
- Place the seared chicken in your slow cooker. Add the diced vegetables, cubed potatoes, minced garlic, and bay leaves.
- Sprinkle thyme, salt, and pepper generously over the mix. Stir gently to distribute those lovely flavors.
- Pour in the chicken broth. If you prefer a thicker stew, whisk the flour with a bit of broth before adding, or simply sprinkle flour on top and stir to avoid clumps.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken and vegetables are tender.
- Once done, remove the bay leaves, taste, and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve with a garnish of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.
Best ways to enjoy it
This stew is delicious on its own, but why stop there? Serve it alongside a fresh crusty loaf of bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with a scoop of creamy mashed potatoes, or over a bed of rice for a heartier serving.
Storage and reheating tips
Leftover chicken stew can be a lifesaver on busy days. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Just make sure to cool the stew completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Tips for success
- Don’t skip the searing step! This is vital for enhancing the stew’s flavor.
- Consider using chicken thighs for more moisture and flavor. They’re forgiving and tender even after long cooking times.
- For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when seasoning.
Creative twists
Feel like changing it up? Try adding different herbs like rosemary or oregano. You can also swap in your choice of beans for extra protein. For a heartier twist, consider adding some green peas or corn during the last half-hour of cooking.
Common questions
How long does this recipe take to prep?
Prep time is about 15-20 minutes, and the cooking time will depend on your slow cooker settings (low for 6-8 hours, high for 3-4 hours).Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken directly in the slow cooker, just remember that it may require additional cooking time to reach the proper temperature.How can I make this stew gluten-free?
Substitute the all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend for thickening (just be sure to whisk it beforehand).
Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Ingredients
Method
- Start by searing the chicken in a hot skillet for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Place the seared chicken in your slow cooker. Add the diced vegetables, cubed potatoes, minced garlic, and bay leaves.
- Sprinkle thyme, salt, and pepper generously over the mix. Stir gently to distribute the flavors.
- Pour in the chicken broth. If you prefer a thicker stew, whisk the flour with a bit of broth before adding, or sprinkle flour on top and stir to avoid clumps.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken and vegetables are tender.
- Once done, remove the bay leaves, taste, and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve with a garnish of freshly chopped parsley.
