This easy slow cooker chicken stew is warm, hearty, and the perfect meal for chilly evenings! With tender chicken, colorful veggies, and delicious seasonings, it’s great for the whole family.
Honestly, the best part is how simple it is! Just toss everything in, let it cook, and there’s a cozy meal waiting for you. I love serving it with some crusty bread for that extra comfort! 🥖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I love using chicken thighs for their extra juiciness, but chicken breasts work just fine too. If you’re looking for a leaner option, go for the breasts. You can even use leftover rotisserie chicken—just add it in the last hour to heat through!
Vegetables: Carrots, celery, and potatoes are classic for stews, but feel free to swap them with other veggies like green beans, peas, or sweet potatoes. Use what you have on hand, and don’t be afraid to get creative!
Broth: I recommend low-sodium chicken broth, which you can adjust for taste. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, vegetable broth works perfectly as a substitute, giving a nice flavor as well!
Herbs and Spices: Thyme and rosemary give great depth to the stew, but feel free to replace them with Italian seasoning or even a bay leaf. Adjust to your taste—experimenting with herbs can give it your own twist!
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Stew Consistency?
The consistency of your chicken stew can really make a difference. If you like a thicker stew, here’s what to do:
- Use the optional flour to thicken. Mix it with a bit of cold water to make a slurry before adding it to the stew.
- Cook the stew uncovered for a little while towards the end if it’s still too thin.
- If you want a naturally thick stew, mash a few potato chunks with a fork and stir them back in. It gives great texture!
Just keep an eye on it as it cooks, and you’ll be able to get the texture that you enjoy. Happy cooking!
Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe for Cozy Meals
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 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious chicken stew takes about 15 minutes to prep, and then cooks for either 6 to 8 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high in the slow cooker. You’ll have some wonderful smells filling your kitchen, and a wholesome meal ready to enjoy when you’re done with your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Chicken (Optional):
Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken chunks and lightly brown them for about 3-4 minutes. This step is optional but helps to lock in flavor. If you’re short on time, feel free to skip this and put the raw chicken straight into the slow cooker!
2. Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker:
Transfer the browned chicken (or raw chicken if you skipped the browning) into the slow cooker. Next, add the sliced carrots, celery, chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced potatoes. Give it a little stir to mix everything together nicely.
3. Pour in Liquid and Seasoning:
Now, pour in your chicken broth and diced tomatoes. This will help keep everything moist and delicious as it cooks. Then add the dried thyme, rosemary, paprika, and season with salt and pepper. Stir gently to combine all those lovely flavors.
4. Cook Away:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid, and let it work its magic! Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and the veggies are tender. You’ll love how your home smells!
5. Add Peas and Thicken the Stew (Optional):
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the frozen peas. If you prefer a thicker stew, you can take 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and mix it with a small amount of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the stew, and let it cook for an additional 20-30 minutes until thickened.
6. Taste and Serve:
Before serving, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning if needed. Once everything is perfect, serve it hot garnished with fresh parsley. It’s delicious on its own, or you can enjoy it with some crusty bread or over rice!
Enjoy your comforting slow cooker chicken stew! It’s perfect for cozy meals with family and friends. 💕🍲
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to add an extra hour of cooking time. It’s best to ensure the chicken is fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when finished.
How Do I Store Leftover Stew?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the consistency.
Can I Modify the Vegetables in This Stew?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute or add any vegetables you like, such as green beans, corn, or bell peppers. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking!
What If I Don’t Have Dried Herbs on Hand?
No worries! If you don’t have dried thyme or rosemary, you can use Italian seasoning or any herb blend you prefer. Fresh herbs can also be used—just remember to use about three times the amount since they are less concentrated than dried ones!
