Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that warms your heart and fills your belly, then this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is just the ticket! This recipe has been a staple in my home, especially on those chilly evenings when all you want is something hearty and satisfying. The best part? It’s so simple to prepare that you can throw everything into the slow cooker and let it do the magic while you go about your day!

This stew is perfect for busy weeknights when time is tight but also makes an appearance at family gatherings because everyone loves a good bowl of stew. With tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a rich flavor without the cream, it’s an instant classic in my book.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Just toss your ingredients in the slow cooker and let it do all the work for you!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this hearty meal, making it a great choice for family dinners.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for meal prep! Make it on the weekend and enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week.
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of herbs, garlic, and chicken broth creates a comforting taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

In this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew, we use simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Each component adds its unique touch to create a warm, delicious meal.

For the Stew Base

• 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

For Creaminess

• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup green peas, frozen
• Black pepper, to season

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand or personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: If you’re not in the mood for chicken, try using turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
• Add extra veggies: Sneak in some bell peppers or green beans for added nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of chili flakes or some diced jalapeños if you like a kick of heat.
• Change up the herbs: Feel free to experiment with different herbs like oregano or basil to suit your taste.

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by placing your chicken thighs on a cutting board. Dice them into 1-inch pieces and season generously with salt and pepper. This step ensures that every bite of chicken is flavorful right from the start!

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, warm up the olive oil over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes until they are browned on all sides. Searing locks in those juicy flavors, giving your stew an amazing depth.

Step 3: Coat with Flour and Herbs

Once seared, transfer the chicken into your slow cooker. Sprinkle in the flour, thyme, rosemary, and salt. Stir well until all pieces of chicken are coated with flour—this will help thicken your stew later on!

Step 4: Add Vegetables

Now it’s time to add some color! Toss in the garlic, onion, carrots, and potatoes to the slow cooker. Give everything a good stir before pouring in the chicken broth and adding that bay leaf. Each vegetable adds its own unique flavor that melds beautifully during cooking.

Step 5: Slow Cook Away!

Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for 7-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The long cooking time allows all those wonderful flavors to develop while making sure your chicken is tender and succulent.

Step 6: Final Touches

When it’s almost ready, stir in those frozen peas along with half a cup of milk. This addition brings creaminess without any heavy dairy! Let it cook on high for another 10-15 minutes until everything is warmed through. Don’t forget to taste before serving; adjust salt and pepper as needed!

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!

Once everything is perfectly cooked, scoop yourself out a hearty bowl of this delightful stew! It’s great served immediately but also stores well for quick meals later on—perfect for those busy days ahead!

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Making a hearty slow cooker chicken stew is simple, but these tips will ensure you achieve the best results every time!

• Choose the Right Chicken: Opting for chicken thighs instead of breasts adds more flavor and tenderness to your stew. Thighs are less likely to dry out during the long cooking process.
• Searing is Key: Always sear your chicken before adding it to the slow cooker. This step enhances the depth of flavor by creating a beautiful golden crust that locks in juices.
• Layer Ingredients Thoughtfully: When adding ingredients to the slow cooker, layer them from hardest to softest (potatoes and carrots on the bottom, chicken on top). This ensures even cooking and prevents mushy vegetables.
• Adjust Thickness Wisely: If you prefer a thicker stew, mix a bit of extra flour with water (or broth) before adding it in. This will prevent clumping while giving your stew that comforting creamy consistency without cream!
• Let It Rest: After cooking, let your stew sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to marry beautifully, making every bite a savory delight.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Presenting your slow cooker chicken stew beautifully can enhance the dining experience. Here are some lovely ideas for serving this delicious dish!

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up each bowl.
• Cracked Black Pepper: A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper not only enhances flavor but also adds an appealing visual contrast.
• Lemon Zest: A touch of lemon zest can provide a refreshing citrus note that balances out the richness of the stew.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: A loaf of crusty bread is perfect for sopping up every last drop of your hearty stew. Choose sourdough or whole grain for added texture and flavor.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light mixed green salad with vinaigrette provides a crisp contrast to the warm stew, keeping your meal balanced and refreshing.
• Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans add color and crunch while being a nutritious addition to your plate.
• Quinoa or Brown Rice: Serve your stew over fluffy quinoa or brown rice for a wholesome grain option that complements the dish’s heartiness perfectly.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy an incredibly satisfying meal with your slow cooker chicken stew! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is a fantastic choice for meal prep. It’s not only easy to make in large batches, but it also tastes even better after sitting for a day, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Here’s how you can store and maximize this delicious stew.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• If you prefer, divide the stew into individual portions for quick lunches or dinners.

Freezing

• Portion out the stew into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some room for expansion.
• Label with the date and contents before placing in the freezer.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months—perfect for those busy days when you need a comforting meal on hand!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Alternatively, use the microwave: heat in short intervals, stirring between bursts until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Slow Cooker Chicken Stew.

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

Absolutely! While chicken thighs add a rich flavor and tenderness, chicken breasts can also work well. Just be cautious not to overcook them, as they can become dry.

How do I thicken my Slow Cooker Chicken Stew?

If your stew turns out too thin, simply mix a tablespoon of flour with a little cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into your stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking or until desired thickness is achieved.

What other vegetables can I add to my Slow Cooker Chicken Stew?

Feel free to get creative! Vegetables like bell peppers, celery, or even green beans can add extra flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking.

How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Chicken Stew on high?

Cooking your Slow Cooker Chicken Stew on high typically takes about 3-4 hours. This is perfect if you’re short on time but still want that comforting home-cooked flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew as comforting and satisfying as I do! It’s truly special because it’s not only simple to make but also packed with wholesome ingredients that warm you from the inside out. Enjoy creating this dish that’s perfect for any night of the week or for meal prepping. I can’t wait for you to try it—happy cooking!