Welcome, fellow food lovers, to a culinary journey that promises warmth, flavor, and incredible ease! If you’re searching for the quintessential comfort food that practically makes itself, look no further than this delightful Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe. Imagine coming home after a long day to the savory aroma of tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth simmering away, ready to embrace you with its warmth. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl, a testament to the magic of set-it-and-forget-it cooking, and an absolute lifesaver for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Forget the endless stirring and constant vigilance of stovetop cooking. With your trusty slow cooker, this robust chicken stew transforms simple ingredients into a masterpiece of wholesome goodness with minimal effort. It’s the kind of dish that nourishes not just your body, but your soul, leaving you completely satisfied and planning leftovers for tomorrow. Perfect for meal prepping, feeding a crowd, or simply ensuring you have a delicious, nutritious dinner waiting for you, this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe is about to become a permanent fixture in your family’s meal rotation. Get ready to embrace the simplicity and deliciousness that only a slow-cooked stew can offer. Let’s dive into making this incredible dish that promises to be a new favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe
There are countless reasons why this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe is destined to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. First and foremost, its sheer convenience is unmatched. In today’s fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a wholesome, home-cooked meal can feel like a monumental task. This recipe eliminates that stress entirely. With just about 20 minutes of active prep time, you can have all your ingredients loaded into the slow cooker in the morning, and by evening, a piping hot, perfectly cooked dinner awaits. The hands-off nature of slow cooking means you’re free to focus on other tasks, whether it’s work, errands, or spending quality time with family, all while your dinner is expertly simmering to perfection.
Beyond convenience, the flavor profile of this chicken stew is simply phenomenal. Slow cooking allows the ingredients to meld together over hours, creating a depth of flavor that’s impossible to achieve with quicker cooking methods. The aromatic herbs like thyme and rosemary infuse deeply into the chicken and vegetables, while the diced tomatoes add a delightful tang that brightens the entire dish. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of savory chicken, earthy carrots, sweet celery, and tender potatoes, all bathed in a rich, savory broth. It’s comfort food at its finest, evoking memories of grandma’s kitchen and making new ones with every spoonful. The optional cornstarch slurry at the end allows you to customize the consistency, ensuring your stew is exactly as thick and hearty as you desire, truly making it your own.
Furthermore, this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe is incredibly versatile and forgiving. Don’t have Yukon Gold potatoes? Red potatoes or even russets will work just fine. Want to add more greens? Spinach or kale can be stirred in during the last hour. Its adaptability makes it perfect for using up whatever vegetables you have on hand, reducing food waste and encouraging creativity in the kitchen. It’s also a fantastic recipe for feeding a crowd, effortlessly scaling up to accommodate more servings for potlucks, family gatherings, or simply ensuring you have plenty of leftovers for meal prep throughout the week. The simplicity of the ingredients, combined with the profound flavors developed through slow cooking, makes this a recipe you’ll return to again and again, knowing it will always deliver a satisfying, delicious, and stress-free meal.
Why You Should Try This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe
If you’re still contemplating whether to add this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe to your culinary repertoire, let me convince you why it’s an absolute must-try. Firstly, it embodies the essence of wholesome, nutritious eating. Packed with lean protein from the chicken and a bounty of fiber-rich vegetables like carrots, celery, and potatoes, this stew offers a complete and balanced meal in one bowl. It’s a fantastic way to ensure your family gets their daily dose of essential vitamins and minerals without compromising on taste. Unlike many processed convenience foods, you know exactly what goes into this stew, allowing you to control the quality of ingredients and tailor it to any dietary needs, such as managing salt intake or ensuring it’s gluten-free if using certified broth.
Secondly, this recipe is incredibly budget-friendly. Chicken thighs are a more economical cut of meat compared to breasts, yet they become incredibly tender and flavorful when slow-cooked, making them ideal for this hearty stew. Combined with inexpensive staple vegetables, dried herbs, and pantry items like chicken broth and canned tomatoes, you can feed 6-8 people generously without breaking the bank. This makes it an excellent option for families looking to enjoy delicious, home-cooked meals without overspending on groceries. The ability to cook a large batch also means fewer meals to prepare throughout the week, saving both time and money in the long run.
Finally, and perhaps most importantly for many, this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe is incredibly forgiving and perfect for cooks of all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting your culinary journey, the steps are straightforward and the results are consistently excellent. There’s no complex technique, no need for precise timing (within the cooking window), and very little chance of burning or overcooking. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, ensuring a perfectly tender chicken and vegetables every time. It’s a wonderful entry point into the world of slow cooking, demonstrating just how easy and rewarding it can be to create deeply flavored, satisfying meals with minimal fuss. Embrace the simplicity, savor the rich flavors, and discover the joy of effortless cooking with this incredible stew. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s a pathway to stress-free, delicious dinners that will warm you from the inside out.
Ingredients and Necessary Utensils for Your Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Crafting the perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe begins with selecting quality ingredients and having the right tools at your disposal. While the beauty of slow cooking lies in its simplicity, a little attention to these details can elevate your stew from good to truly extraordinary. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of what you’ll need:
Essential Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces: Chicken thighs are the star of this stew. Their slightly higher fat content compared to chicken breasts means they remain incredibly tender and moist during the long cooking process, absorbing all the wonderful flavors of the broth and vegetables. Cutting them into uniform 1-inch pieces ensures even cooking and makes them easy to eat in a spoonful of stew. You can also use chicken breast if preferred, but keep in mind they might be slightly less tender.
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped: Onions form the aromatic base of many great stews. When slow-cooked, they soften and sweeten, adding a crucial layer of foundational flavor.
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced into ½-inch rounds: Carrots provide natural sweetness, vibrant color, and essential nutrients. Slicing them into ½-inch rounds ensures they become tender but still hold their shape, contributing to the stew’s hearty texture.
- 3 celery stalks, sliced into ½-inch pieces: Celery adds a subtle, earthy flavor and a pleasant texture. Like carrots, cutting them to a similar size promotes even cooking.
- 1.5 lbs Yukon Gold or red potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks: Potatoes are key to making this a truly satisfying and filling stew. Yukon Golds or red potatoes are preferred for their waxy texture, which means they hold up well during long cooking times without becoming mushy. Cutting them into 1-inch chunks provides substantial bites.
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is a flavor powerhouse. Minced garlic infuses the entire stew with its pungent, aromatic goodness, complementing the other savory ingredients.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Thyme is a classic herb for stews, offering a subtle, earthy, and slightly floral note that pairs beautifully with chicken and vegetables.
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary: Rosemary provides a robust, piney aroma and flavor that adds a sophisticated depth to the stew. Use dried for convenience, but fresh, finely chopped rosemary can also be lovely.
- 2 bay leaves: Bay leaves are essential for adding a subtle, underlying herbaceous note that enhances the overall savory profile of the stew. Remember to remove them before serving!
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste: Salt is crucial for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of all the ingredients. Always start with the recommended amount and adjust at the end.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste: Freshly ground black pepper adds a gentle warmth and aromatic kick, balancing the savory and sweet elements.
- 4 cups (1 standard 32-oz carton) chicken broth: The liquid base of our stew. High-quality chicken broth provides the savory foundation and helps cook the ingredients to tender perfection. Look for low-sodium options if you’re controlling salt intake.
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained: Diced tomatoes add a touch of acidity and sweetness, cutting through the richness of the stew and adding a pleasant texture. Using them undrained ensures all their flavorful juices are incorporated.
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional, for adding at the end): Peas add a pop of color, a hint of sweetness, and additional nutrients. Adding them at the very end ensures they remain bright green and tender-crisp.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening): If you prefer a thicker, more gravy-like consistency for your stew, cornstarch is your friend. It provides a smooth, lump-free thickening agent.
- ¼ cup cold water (optional, for thickening): Used to create a cornstarch slurry, ensuring it blends seamlessly into the stew without clumping.
Recommended Tools and Utensils for Recipe Success:
- 6-quart (or larger) Slow Cooker: This is, of course, the star appliance for this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe. A 6-quart capacity is ideal for this recipe’s yield of 6-8 servings, allowing enough space for all the ingredients to cook evenly without overflowing. Make sure your slow cooker is in good working order and has a tight-fitting lid to retain moisture and heat.
- Sharp Chef’s Knife: Essential for efficiently chopping the chicken, onion, carrots, celery, and potatoes. A sharp knife makes prep work safer and faster.
- Cutting Board: A sturdy and clean cutting board is crucial for safe and hygienic food preparation. Use one specifically for raw meats to prevent cross-contamination.
- Vegetable Peeler: For easily peeling the carrots and potatoes.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups: For accurate measurement of herbs, salt, pepper, broth, and water. Precision in measurements helps ensure consistent results.
- Large Mixing Spoon or Spatula: For gently stirring the ingredients in the slow cooker insert to combine them.
- Small Bowl: If you choose to thicken your stew, a small bowl is needed to whisk together the cornstarch and cold water to form a slurry.
- Whisk: To ensure the cornstarch and water are fully combined into a smooth slurry, preventing lumps in your stew.
- Ladle: For serving the hot, delicious stew into individual bowls.
Having these simple tools ready will make your preparation seamless and enjoyable, leading to a perfectly cooked, comforting bowl of chicken stew every time.
Detailed Recipe Steps for Your Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Making this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe is incredibly straightforward, designed for maximum flavor with minimal fuss. Follow these detailed steps to achieve a hearty, comforting meal that practically cooks itself.
- Prepare Your Ingredients: The Foundation of Flavor
Begin by ensuring all your ingredients are prepped and ready to go. This “mise en place” (everything in its place) approach makes the assembly process quick and easy.- Take your 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs and cut them into uniform 1-inch pieces. This size ensures they cook evenly and are perfect for a spoonful of stew.
- Chop your 1 large yellow onion. No need for a fine dice here; a rough chop is perfectly fine as it will soften considerably during cooking.
- Peel your 3 medium carrots and slice them into ½-inch rounds. Keep them relatively thick so they don’t turn to mush.
- Slice your 3 celery stalks into ½-inch pieces, matching the size of the carrots for consistent texture.
- Peel your 1.5 lbs Yukon Gold or red potatoes and cut them into 1-inch chunks. Remember, these waxy potatoes hold their shape best.
- Finally, mince your 3-4 cloves of garlic. The finer the mince, the more evenly its flavor will disperse.
Tip: Prep your harder vegetables first, then move to softer ones and finally the chicken to keep your cutting board clean or minimize washes.
- Layering the Flavor into Your Slow Cooker
Now it’s time to build your stew directly in the slow cooker insert. This layering helps ensure everything cooks evenly and the flavors meld beautifully.Carefully place the following ingredients into the slow cooker insert:
- The prepped chopped chicken pieces.
- The chopped onion, sliced carrots, and sliced celery.
- The cubed potatoes.
- The minced garlic.
- Your dried herbs: 1 teaspoon dried thyme and 1 teaspoon dried rosemary. Rubbing the dried herbs between your fingers before adding them can help release their essential oils and enhance their flavor.
- Add the 2 bay leaves. These are critical for that classic stew aroma.
- Season with 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Remember, you can always adjust seasoning later.
Cooking Trick: While not strictly necessary for this recipe, a quick sear of the chicken thighs in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker can add an extra layer of savory depth and color. However, for ultimate ease, skipping this step is perfectly fine and yields a delicious result.
- Adding the Liquid Gold and Gentle Stir
This step introduces the liquid base that will transform your raw ingredients into a rich, comforting stew.- Pour in the 4 cups (1 standard 32-oz carton) chicken broth. Ensure it covers most of the ingredients; if not, a little more is fine.
- Add the 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained. The liquid from the can adds even more flavor and acidity.
- Stir gently to combine all the ingredients. Don’t overmix; just ensure everything is well-distributed and submerged in the liquid as much as possible.
Practical Tip: Ensure your slow cooker insert isn’t overfilled. Generally, you want to fill it no more than two-thirds to three-quarters full to allow for proper heat circulation and prevent bubbling over.
- The Waiting Game: Cook to Perfection
This is where the magic of the slow cooker truly shines. Set it and let it do its work!- Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours.
- The goal is for the chicken to be cooked through and incredibly tender, and for the vegetables to be fork-tender but not mushy. Cooking on LOW generally yields slightly more tender results for the chicken.
- Bold Essential Point: Avoid lifting the lid too often during this cooking period, especially during the first few hours. Each time you lift the lid, you release accumulated heat, adding approximately 20-30 minutes to the overall cooking time.
- Optional Thickening and Final Additions (30 Minutes Before Serving)
This step is for those who prefer a heartier, thicker stew.- About 30 minutes before you plan to serve, if you prefer a thicker stew, prepare your cornstarch slurry. In a small bowl, whisk together the 2 tablespoons cornstarch and ¼ cup cold water until completely smooth and no lumps remain. This is crucial for a lump-free stew.
- Stir this slurry into the stew in the slow cooker.
- Now is also the time to add your 1 cup frozen peas (if using). They will quickly heat through and retain their vibrant color and texture.
Cooking Trick: Always use cold water for your cornstarch slurry. Hot water will cause the cornstarch to clump immediately.
- Final Simmer and Serving
Just a few more minutes to reach perfection.- Continue to cook on HIGH for another 30 minutes, or until the stew has thickened to your desired consistency. The peas should also be heated through.
- Before serving, remove and discard the bay leaves. They have done their job of infusing flavor and are not meant to be eaten.
- Ladle the hot stew into bowls and serve immediately. This stew is wonderful on its own, or with a side of crusty bread or a light salad.
Enjoy your delicious, homemade Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe, a true testament to effortless comfort food!
Tips and Variations for Your Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe
This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe is incredibly adaptable, allowing you to customize it to your taste, dietary needs, or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Here are some tips and variations to make this recipe truly your own:
Ingredient Alternatives and Specific Versions:
- Vegetable Swap-Outs:
- Root Vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other root vegetables. Sweet potatoes or parsnips can add a different kind of sweetness and earthy flavor. Cut them into similar 1-inch chunks.
- Greens: For an extra boost of nutrition, stir in a few handfuls of fresh spinach, kale, or collard greens during the last 30 minutes to an hour of cooking. They will wilt beautifully into the stew.
- Other Veggies: Mushrooms, bell peppers (added an hour before serving to retain some texture), or green beans can also be wonderful additions.
- Protein Power-Ups:
- Beef/Pork: While this is a Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe, you can easily adapt it for other meats. Use beef chuck roast (cut into 1-inch cubes) or pork shoulder (also cubed). These meats will likely require the full 8 hours on LOW to become truly tender.
- Legumes: For a more plant-forward or budget-friendly option, you could replace half the chicken with a can of drained and rinsed chickpeas or cannellini beans, added in the last hour of cooking.
- Herb and Spice Experimentation:
- Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh herbs, use them! Roughly 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped thyme and rosemary can replace the dried versions. Add them at the beginning.
- Spice It Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick. For a smoky flavor, a tiny bit of smoked paprika works wonders.
- Broth Variations:
- Instead of all chicken broth, you could use half broth and half red wine for a richer, more complex flavor profile, especially if using beef or pork.
- For a creamier stew, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Gluten-Free Version: This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure your chicken broth is certified gluten-free. Most broths are, but always check the label. The cornstarch is also naturally gluten-free.
- Vegan/Vegetarian Adaptation: While challenging to replicate the chicken flavor, you could create a delicious vegetable stew using this recipe as a base. Replace chicken with extra potatoes, mushrooms, and perhaps some hearty beans (like kidney or cannellini). Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For protein, consider adding firm tofu or tempeh, cubed and browned before adding to the slow cooker, or just rely on legumes.
Advice to Avoid Common Mistakes:
- Don’t Lift the Lid Too Often: This is the golden rule of slow cooking. Every time you peek, you release heat and steam, which significantly extends the cooking time. Trust your slow cooker!
- Cut Vegetables Uniformly: While it doesn’t have to be perfect, try to cut your carrots, celery, and potatoes into similar sizes. This ensures they cook evenly. If some pieces are too small, they might become mushy, while larger pieces could remain undercooked.
- Don’t Overfill: As mentioned, filling your slow cooker more than two-thirds to three-quarters full can lead to uneven cooking or even overflow. Stick to the recipe’s ingredient quantities, or adjust them if scaling up significantly.
- Seasoning: Taste and adjust! While the recipe provides initial salt and pepper amounts, broth brands vary in sodium, and personal preferences differ. Always taste the stew towards the end of the cooking process (after adding peas/thickener) and adjust seasoning as needed. A final pinch of salt or pepper can make all the difference.
- Thickening the Right Way: If using cornstarch, ensure you mix it with cold water to form a smooth slurry BEFORE adding it to the hot stew. Adding dry cornstarch directly will result in lumps. Stir it in thoroughly and allow it 30 minutes to thicken. If it’s still not thick enough, you can repeat with a smaller slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch to 2 tablespoons cold water) and cook for another 15-20 minutes.
- Bay Leaves: Remember to remove the bay leaves before serving. They’ve done their job infusing flavor and are not meant to be consumed.
By keeping these tips in mind and feeling free to experiment, your Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe will be a consistent success, tailored perfectly to your taste buds every time. Enjoy the journey of creating this delicious and adaptable comfort food!
Nutritional Values and Benefits of Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe is not just incredibly delicious and convenient; it’s also packed with nutritional benefits, making it a wholesome choice for any meal. While precise nutritional values can vary based on exact ingredient brands, portion sizes, and optional additions, we can provide estimated ranges and highlight the key contributions of its components.
Estimated Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. 1.5 cups):
For a stew yielding 6-8 servings, a single serving (approximately 1.5-2 cups) could typically contain:
- Calories: 300-400 calories (depending on chicken fat content and potato quantity)
- Protein: 25-35 grams (primarily from chicken thighs)
- Fats: 10-15 grams (mostly from chicken, with healthy fats being dominant)
- Carbohydrates: 30-40 grams (from potatoes, carrots, peas, and a small amount from tomatoes/onion)
- Fiber: 5-8 grams (from all the vegetables)
- Sodium: 600-900 mg (can be significantly reduced by using low-sodium broth and controlling added salt)
- Vitamins & Minerals: Excellent source of Vitamin A (carrots), Vitamin C (potatoes, tomatoes, peas), Potassium (potatoes, broth), and various B vitamins (chicken).
These figures demonstrate that this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe offers a well-rounded meal, providing energy, muscle-building protein, and essential micronutrients.
Benefits of Certain Ingredients:
- Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are an excellent source of lean protein, which is vital for muscle repair, growth, and overall bodily function. They also provide essential amino acids and B vitamins like Niacin (B3) and B6, crucial for energy metabolism. The slight fat content in thighs helps keep them moist and flavorful during slow cooking, making the protein more palatable.
- Potatoes (Yukon Gold/Red): These hearty root vegetables are a fantastic source of complex carbohydrates, providing sustained energy. They are also rich in Vitamin C, an important antioxidant for immune health, and Potassium, an electrolyte vital for blood pressure regulation and nerve function. Choosing waxy varieties like Yukon Gold or red potatoes means they retain more nutrients and texture after long cooking times compared to starchy potatoes.
- Carrots: Known for their vibrant color, carrots are exceptionally rich in beta-carotene, which the body converts into Vitamin A. Vitamin A is crucial for good vision, immune function, and skin health. They also provide dietary fiber, which aids digestion and promotes satiety.
- Celery: A low-calorie vegetable, celery contributes a refreshing crunch (before it softens) and is a good source of Vitamin K, important for blood clotting and bone health, and Vitamin C. It also provides antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
- Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes are a powerhouse of antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which is associated with heart health and protection against certain cancers. Cooking tomatoes, especially with a bit of fat (from the chicken), enhances the bioavailability of lycopene. Tomatoes also provide Vitamin C and potassium.
- Peas (Frozen): Although optional, frozen peas are a quick and easy way to boost the nutritional content. They are a good source of plant-based protein, fiber, and multiple vitamins, including Vitamin K, Vitamin C, and several B vitamins. Their bright color also adds visual appeal to the stew.
- Herbs (Thyme, Rosemary, Bay Leaves): Beyond adding incredible flavor, these herbs also contain various antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, contributing to the overall health benefits of the dish.
In summary, this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe is a nutrient-dense meal that supports overall well-being. It’s a smart choice for anyone looking for a satisfying, wholesome, and easy-to-prepare dinner that delivers on both taste and health benefits. It’s truly a complete meal in a bowl, perfect for fueling your body and comforting your soul.
FAQs about Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs in this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe?
Yes, you can absolutely use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. However, keep in mind that chicken breasts are leaner and may become slightly drier than thighs during the long cooking process. If using breasts, ensure they are cut into 1-inch pieces to cook evenly and remain as tender as possible.
How can I make this chicken stew thicker without cornstarch?
If you prefer not to use cornstarch, you have a few options. You can mash some of the cooked potatoes directly into the stew, which will naturally thicken it. Alternatively, at the very end of cooking, you could carefully remove about 1 cup of the broth, whisk in 1-2 tablespoons of flour, and return it to the slow cooker for another 30 minutes on HIGH.
Can I add other vegetables to this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe?
Absolutely! This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe is very versatile. Feel free to add chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, green beans, or even some spinach or kale. For harder vegetables like bell peppers or green beans, add them with the other vegetables at the beginning. For leafy greens, stir them in during the last 30 minutes of cooking so they don’t overcook.
How long does homemade chicken stew last in the refrigerator?
Homemade Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe can be safely stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. It often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. For longer storage, it freezes exceptionally well for up to 3 months.
Is it necessary to brown the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker?
No, it is not necessary to brown the chicken first for this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe. While browning can add an extra layer of caramelized flavor, this recipe is designed for maximum convenience, allowing you to simply add all ingredients directly to the slow cooker for a delicious and easy meal.
Can I freeze leftover Slow Cooker Chicken Stew?
Yes, this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe freezes beautifully! Allow the stew to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a little headspace. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Conclusion: Your New Favorite Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe
There you have it – a comprehensive guide to crafting the most comforting and convenient Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe you’ll ever make. We’ve explored why this dish is an absolute game-changer for busy households, offering unparalleled ease without sacrificing an ounce of flavor. From its hands-off cooking method that frees up your precious time, to the incredible depth of flavor that only hours of simmering can achieve, this stew is designed to deliver maximum satisfaction with minimal effort. It’s a testament to the power of simple, wholesome ingredients coming together to create something truly magical.
We’ve walked through each ingredient, understanding its role in the symphony of flavors, and detailed every step of the cooking process, ensuring your success from start to finish. We’ve also armed you with valuable tips and creative variations, empowering you to make this recipe uniquely yours, adapting it to suit different tastes or dietary needs. And let’s not forget the robust nutritional profile of this hearty stew, packed with lean protein and an abundance of vegetables, making it a meal you can feel good about serving to your family, knowing it nourishes both body and soul. Its budget-friendly nature and impressive yield also make it an ideal choice for meal prepping or feeding a crowd, truly making your life in the kitchen easier and more delicious.
So, what are you waiting for? Embrace the simplicity and rewarding experience of slow cooking. This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s an invitation to reclaim your evenings, allowing you to come home to the delightful aroma of a perfectly cooked dinner, ready to be enjoyed. We genuinely hope this recipe becomes a cherished favorite in your home, bringing warmth, comfort, and effortless joy to your dining table. Give it a try this week, and prepare to be amazed! Once you experience the ease and deliciousness, we’d love to hear from you. Please share your thoughts, photos, and any creative twists you add in the comments below. Your feedback inspires us and helps our community of food lovers. Don’t forget to share this article with friends and family who are looking for their next favorite easy meal. And for more easy and delicious recipe inspiration, explore our site, like our Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo for another quick chicken fix, or dive into comforting classics like our Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole. Happy cooking!
Hearty Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Equipment
- Slow Cooker (6-quart or larger)
- Whisk (optional)
- Small bowl (optional)
Ingredients
Stew Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large yellow onion chopped
- 3 medium carrots peeled and sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 3 celery stalks sliced into ½-inch pieces
- 1.5 lbs Yukon Gold or red potatoes peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
- 3-4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper or to taste
- 4 cups chicken broth 1 standard 32-oz carton
- 1 can diced tomatoes 14.5 oz, undrained
Optional Thickening & Finishing
- 1 cup frozen peas optional, for adding at the end
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch optional, for thickening
- ¼ cup cold water optional, for thickening
Instructions
Preparation
- Place the chopped chicken, onion, carrots, celery, potatoes, minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, bay leaves, salt, and black pepper into the slow cooker insert.
- Pour in the chicken broth and the undrained diced tomatoes.
- Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.
Cooking
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
- About 30 minutes before serving, if you prefer a thicker stew, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the stew. Add the frozen peas (if using).
- Continue to cook on HIGH for another 30 minutes, or until the stew has thickened to your desired consistency and the peas are heated through.
- Remove and discard the bay leaves before serving. Ladle the hot stew into bowls and serve immediately.
