Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe

Welcome to your ultimate guide for a hearty and comforting Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe. If you’re looking for a dish that is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor, you’ve come to the right place. This slow cooker chicken stew is perfect for those chilly evenings when you want something warming and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can set it and forget it allowing the flavors to meld beautifully throughout the day.

Imagine coming home after a long day to the enticing aroma of this chicken stew wafting through your door. You’ll find tender pieces of chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a rich broth that’s ideal for cozying up with. Whether you’re feeding a family or just want to treat yourself, this stew is sure to satisfy. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe and how to make it your own.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe is not just another meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. Here’s why it’s bound to become a staple in your household:

• Effortless Preparation: The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With minimal chopping and prep, you can easily fit this dish into your busy schedule.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor. From the savory chicken thighs to aromatic herbs like thyme and rosemary, every bite is a delight.
• Customizable: Feel free to switch up the vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Add bell peppers, green beans, or even some corn for a pop of color and flavor.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This stew freezes well, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. Simply store in airtight containers, and you have a delicious homemade meal ready for those busy days.
• Healthy and Hearty: Packed with nutritious ingredients, this stew is a wholesome meal that won’t leave you feeling guilty. It’s a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

There are countless reasons to fall in love with this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe. Besides the convenience and flavor, it offers a unique opportunity to gather your loved ones around the dinner table. Here are a few reasons to give it a try:

• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the tender chicken and hearty vegetables. It’s a great way to introduce new flavors without overwhelming picky eaters.
• One-Pot Wonder: With everything cooked in a single slow cooker, cleanup is a breeze, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Comfort Food Redefined: There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of stew. It warms the soul and brings a sense of comfort that few other dishes can match.
• Time-Saving: The slow cooker does all the hard work for you. Just set it in the morning, and by the time you’re ready to eat, dinner is served!
• Budget-Friendly: Using affordable ingredients like chicken thighs and seasonal vegetables, this recipe is easy on the wallet while still being delicious.

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils

Before diving into this mouthwatering stew, let’s gather our ingredients and tools for success.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
• 4 medium potatoes, diced
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)

Recommended Tools or Utensils

• Slow cooker (6-quart or larger recommended)
• Large skillet for browning chicken
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon for stirring
• Small bowl for cornstarch slurry (if using)

With these ingredients and tools in hand, you’re ready to create a delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Detailed Recipe Steps

Now, let’s walk through each step to ensure your stew turns out perfectly.

1. Prepare the Chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken thighs and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they achieve a beautiful golden brown color. This step adds depth to the flavor.
2. Chop the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften. This helps release their natural flavors, enhancing your stew.
3. Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Transfer the diced potatoes, sautéed vegetables, and seared chicken thighs to your slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the dried thyme, dried rosemary, and add the bay leaf. Stir gently to combine everything.
4. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. The goal is to have the chicken cooked through and the vegetables tender.
5. Add Peas: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the frozen peas. They’ll heat through quickly and add a nice pop of color to your stew.
6. Thicken the Stew (Optional): If you prefer a thicker stew, mix the cornstarch with water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the stew and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes until thickened.
7. Serve: Before serving, don’t forget to remove the bay leaf. Ladle the chicken stew into bowls and enjoy the comforting flavors with crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal.

Remember, the key to a great stew is patience. Letting the flavors meld in the slow cooker truly elevates the dish!

FAQs

Conclusion

In summary, this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe is a delightful way to warm your soul and satisfy your cravings. With its simple preparation and comforting ingredients, it’s destined to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Don’t hesitate to share your experience in the comments below or share this recipe with friends who also love hearty meals. Enjoy your cooking and the delicious stew that awaits!

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For more amazing recipes, check out these links: Ovia Recipes, or try our High Protein Cottage Cheese Pasta Sauce or Taco Stuffed Peppers.

Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

A hearty and flavorful slow cooker chicken stew, perfect for a cozy dinner any night of the week.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 8 hours hrs

Total Time 8 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring Cups
• Measuring Spoons
• Wooden Spoon

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 2 lbs Chicken thighs, boneless and skinless Cut into large chunks
• 4 medium Potatoes, diced Any variety you prefer
• 3 medium Carrots, sliced
• 2 stalks Celery stalks, chopped
• 1 large Onion, diced
• 4 cloves Garlic, minced
• 4 cups Chicken broth Low sodium recommended
• 1 teaspoon Dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon Dried rosemary
• 1 Bay leaf
• to taste Salt and pepper
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 1 cup Frozen peas
• 2 tablespoons Cornstarch (optional for thickening)
• 2 tablespoons Water (optional for thickening)

Instructions

 

Instructions

• Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
• In the same skillet, add the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
• In the slow cooker, add the diced potatoes, sautéed vegetables, and seared chicken thighs. Pour in the chicken broth and add the dried thyme, dried rosemary, and bay leaf.
• Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
• About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the frozen peas and let them heat through.
• If you prefer a thicker stew, mix the cornstarch with water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the stew and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes until thickened.
• Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the chicken stew into bowls and enjoy your hearty meal!

Notes

Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preferences. This stew is great for meal prep and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keyword chicken stew, easy, hearty, slow cooker