Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms your heart and fills your home with delicious aromas, then this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is just what you need! This recipe has been a favorite in my household for years. On busy weeknights or chilly weekends, it’s the perfect dish to come home to after a long day. The tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and flavorful broth create a comforting blend that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

What makes this stew special is its simplicity. You can throw everything into the slow cooker and let it do all the work while you focus on what matters most—spending time with loved ones. Whether you’re hosting family gatherings or simply enjoying a quiet night in, this stew is sure to impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless preparation: Just toss everything into your slow cooker and let it work its magic.
• Family-friendly: With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, everyone—kids included—will want seconds!
• Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch on the weekend and enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week.
• Comforting flavor: The blend of herbs and tender chicken creates a stew that tastes like home.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the joy of cooking. You probably have many of them in your kitchen already! Here’s what you’ll need for this delightful Slow Cooker Chicken Stew:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 1/2 pounds chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to season
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 large potatoes, cut into ½-inch cubes (1 pound)
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup green peas, frozen
• Black pepper, to season

Variations

One of the best parts about this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is how flexible it is! You can easily tweak it to suit your tastes or use up what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option!
• Add more veggies: Throw in some green beans, bell peppers, or corn for added color and nutrition.
• Spice it up: A pinch of red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce can give this stew an exciting kick.
• Herb alternatives: If you’re out of thyme or rosemary, feel free to experiment with other herbs like parsley or basil.

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by placing your chicken on a cutting board. Dice it into 1-inch pieces and season generously with salt and pepper. This step helps build flavor right from the beginning!

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook for about 4-5 minutes until they are browned on all sides. Searing locks in juices so that your chicken stays tender while cooking slowly in the crockpot.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Once the chicken is seared, transfer it to your slow cooker. Sprinkle flour, thyme, rosemary, and salt over the chicken, stirring until everything is well coated. This will help thicken your stew later.

Step 4: Add Vegetables and Broth

Now it’s time for all those lovely veggies! Add garlic, onion, carrots, and potatoes to the slow cooker. Stir everything together before pouring in the chicken broth and adding that bay leaf for extra flavor.

Step 5: Cook Low & Slow

Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for about 7-8 hours or high for around 3-4 hours. Letting it cook slowly allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Final Touches

When it’s almost done cooking, stir in frozen peas and milk for a creamy finish. Cook on high for another 10-15 minutes until everything is heated through. Don’t forget to taste before serving; adjusting salt and pepper makes all the difference!

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy

Your hearty Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is ready! Serve it hot with crusty bread or over rice—whatever makes you happiest! And don’t worry about leftovers; they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days or frozen for three months.

Enjoy making this comforting dish as much as I do!

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Making this slow cooker chicken stew can be even more enjoyable with a few handy tips to elevate your dish.

• Sear the Chicken: Browning the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker adds depth of flavor to the stew. This step helps develop rich, savory notes that really enhance the overall taste.
• Use Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh thyme or rosemary, consider using them instead of dried. Fresh herbs provide a brighter and more vibrant flavor that can make your stew feel special.
• Cut Vegetables Consistently: Chop your vegetables into uniform sizes to ensure they cook evenly. This way, every bite has the same delicious texture and flavor.
• Adjust Seasoning Before Serving: Always taste your stew just before serving. A little sprinkle of salt or a dash of black pepper can make all the difference in balancing flavors.
• Add More Veggies: Don’t hesitate to throw in additional veggies like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and color. It’s a great way to customize your stew based on what you have on hand!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Serving your slow cooker chicken stew is as delightful as making it! Here are some ideas to present this comforting dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, brightening up the dish.
• Lemon Zest: A little lemon zest sprinkled on top brings a refreshing citrus note that complements the creaminess of the stew.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of the delicious broth.
• Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf with herbs makes an excellent base for serving your stew over, absorbing those fantastic flavors.
• Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans add a nice crunch and vibrant color, providing contrast to the creamy texture of the stew.
• Simple Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance to the hearty stew, making for a well-rounded meal.

Now you’re all set to enjoy this cozy meal! Grab a bowl, sit back, and savor every spoonful of warmth from your slow cooker chicken stew. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is not only hearty and comforting, but it’s also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch, store it for later, or enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to keep your stew fresh and delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stew to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the stew into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• Let the stew cool down before freezing to prevent ice crystals.
• Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Label containers with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen stew overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• You can also reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious stew!

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs in Slow Cooker Chicken Stew?

Absolutely! While chicken thighs add a rich flavor, boneless chicken breasts can work well too. Just be mindful that they may become slightly drier if cooked too long.

How long does it take to make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew?

The cooking time depends on your slow cooker settings: 7-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Either way, you’ll have a hearty meal waiting for you!

Can I add other vegetables to my Slow Cooker Chicken Stew?

Yes! Feel free to customize your stew with vegetables like green beans, corn, or bell peppers. Just adjust cooking times accordingly for firmer veggies.

Is this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew healthy?

Yes! This recipe is packed with protein from chicken and loaded with nutritious vegetables. Plus, it’s made without cream, making it a healthier option compared to traditional stews.

Can I make this stew gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply swap out the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for thickening. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew as much as I do! It’s a cozy dish that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends or enjoying as leftovers during a busy week. Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and finding what works best for you. So grab those ingredients, fire up your slow cooker, and let the comforting aroma fill your home. Happy cooking!