This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is super simple and packed with tender chicken, hearty veggies, and comforting flavors. Just toss everything in and let the slow cooker do the work!
You’ll love coming home to a warm, delicious meal that practically cooks itself. Plus, the smell? Oh boy, it makes your kitchen feel like a cozy haven! 🏡
I enjoy serving this stew with some crusty bread for dipping, making it a perfect dinner on a chilly night. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl—so satisfying!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their tenderness and flavor, but boneless breasts work too. If you want a lower-fat option, breasts are perfect. Feel free to use rotisserie chicken—just add it towards the end to warm it through!
Carrots: Fresh carrots give a nice sweetness, but you can use frozen if that’s what you have. Cut them into similar sizes so they cook evenly.
Potatoes: I like using russet or Yukon gold potatoes since they hold their shape well. If you’re looking for lower-carb options, you could try using cauliflower instead.
Herbs: Thyme and rosemary pair beautifully with chicken stew. If you’re out of dried herbs, fresh herbs work, just use about three times the amount!
Cornstarch: This is optional for thickening. If you prefer, you could use flour or even mashed potatoes will thicken the stew naturally!
How Do I Make Sure My Stew Has the Right Flavor and Texture?
The key to a flavorful stew is layering your ingredients properly. Start with the chicken to lock in its juices. Adding vegetables on top helps them cook gently without turning mushy. Timing is crucial too!
- Cook on low heat for hours to let flavors meld. High heat is faster but can make the chicken dry.
- Don’t skip the garlic; adding it near the end ensures it doesn’t become bitter.
- Stir in frozen peas just before serving to keep their bright color and fresh taste.
- To get the right texture, check if it thickens to your liking before serving. If not, add the cornstarch mixture toward the end and let it cook a bit more.
Your stew should be hearty and comforting, perfect for a cozy night in!
Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stew:
- 1.5 to 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
- 4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 stalks celery, sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Thickening (Optional):
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter (optional, for sautéing veggies)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious stew requires about 15 minutes of prep time and then you’ll set it for cooking. You can let it simmer on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. Total time varies based on your cooking speed and method but expect around 6-8 hours for a cozy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Start by peeling and chopping your vegetables. Slice the carrots, dice the potatoes, chop the onion, and slice the celery. Mince the garlic too. Having everything ready makes cooking easier!
2. Layer the Chicken:
Place the cut chicken pieces at the bottom of your slow cooker. This helps keep the chicken moist while it cooks.
3. Add the Vegetables:
Top the chicken with your prepared carrots, potatoes, onion, celery, and minced garlic. That’s where all the flavor starts to build!
4. Pour in the Broth:
Pour the chicken broth over your ingredients. Then add the dried thyme, rosemary, paprika, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. This is what gives the stew its rich flavor!
5. Cook the Stew:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is tender and the veggies are cooked through. No need to peek too often; let it work its magic!
6. Add the Peas:
About 20 minutes before you plan to serve the stew, stir in the frozen peas. They add a nice pop of color and sweetness!
7. Thicken the Stew (If Desired):
If you like your stew a bit thicker, mix the cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl until smooth. Stir it into the stew and let it cook for another 15-20 minutes to thicken up.
8. Final Touches:
Before serving, remove the bay leaf and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Taste it and make any tweaks you prefer!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your warm, comforting stew hot. It’s fantastic with crusty bread or over some fluffy rice for a complete meal. Enjoy!
There you have it, your delicious Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew. Enjoy this hearty and wholesome dish with your family!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but remember to thaw it first for even cooking. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or use the cold water method by sealing it in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water until thawed.
How Can I Make This Stew Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can chop the vegetables and chicken the night before and store them in the fridge. In the morning, just add everything to the slow cooker and let it cook during the day for a delicious ready-to-go dinner!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Consider adding a splash of broth or water if it seems too thick!
Can I Add Other Vegetables or Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to customize the stew with veggies like green beans, bell peppers, or even corn. Adding beans can also boost protein. Just make sure to keep the cooking times in mind so everything cooks evenly!