This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is perfect for chilly days! Tender chicken mingles with hearty veggies and savory broth to create a warm, comforting dish.
I love making this stew because all I have to do is toss everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic. It fills the house with a cozy smell, making it hard to wait for dinner! 🥣
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless thighs are my go-to for tenderness, but you can use breasts if you prefer. They cook faster and are leaner. For a twist, you might try turkey or even a plant-based chicken substitute!
Vegetables: Carrots, celery, and onions create a great base. If you’re out of one, try adding parsnips or bell peppers to keep it colorful and nutritious. Sweet potatoes can replace regular potatoes for a sweeter touch.
Broth: Chicken broth adds depth, but vegetable broth works if you’re looking for a vegetarian version. Bone broth is another option for a heartier flavor!
Herbs: Thyme and rosemary are classic, but you could mix in herbs like oregano or basil for a different flavor. Fresh herbs work too if you have them on hand—just adjust the amounts accordingly!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Stew is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the stew to perfection relies on both timing and technique. The slow cooker is great for this because it cooks food evenly over time. Here’s how to get it right:
- Season the chicken before browning it in a skillet. This adds layers of flavor!
- Don’t rush the browning step; it enhances the stew’s richness.
- Layer your vegetables at the bottom of the slow cooker. They take longer to soften compared to chicken, so they’ll cook perfectly.
- Set the timer correctly; low heat for 6-8 hours and high for 3-4 hours will yield tender chicken and veggies.
- Stir in frozen peas only in the last 30 minutes to keep them vibrant and fresh!
- For thickness, add a slurry made with flour and water. It helps achieve a creamy texture.
Happy cooking, and enjoy your cozy chicken stew!
Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stew:
- 2 lbs 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 cut into chunks
- 1 cup frozen peas (added near the end)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cozy chicken stew takes approximately 15 minutes of preparation time and cooks in the slow cooker for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. It’s the perfect dish to prepare in the morning and have ready by dinner time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season and Brown the Chicken:
Start by lightly seasoning the chicken chunks with salt and pepper. If you want to add extra flavor, heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the chicken pieces for about 3-4 minutes per side until they are lightly golden. This step is optional, but it adds great depth to the stew.
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
In your slow cooker, place the sliced carrots, celery, chopped onion, minced garlic, and potato chunks. This creates a colorful base for your stew.
3. Combine Everything:
Add the browned chicken on top of the vegetables. Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything gently to incorporate the flavors.
4. Cook the Stew:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
5. Add Frozen Peas:
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the frozen peas. This will keep them vibrant and fresh while they warm through.
6. Thicken the Stew (Optional):
If you prefer a thicker stew, mix the all-purpose flour with a small amount of water to create a slurry. Stir this into the stew and let it cook for an additional 15-20 minutes.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Before serving, be sure to remove the bay leaves. Garnish your delicious chicken stew with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve it warm alongside crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a truly comforting meal.
Enjoy your cozy, flavorful slow cooker chicken stew!
FAQ about Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just toss it directly into the slow cooker without thawing in advance. It may require an extra hour of cooking time, so plan accordingly. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) before serving.
What Can I Substitute for Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth, vegetable broth is a great alternative! You can also use water with added seasonings or bouillon cubes to enhance the flavor. Just remember that these substitutions may slightly alter the taste.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Stew?
Absolutely! Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers, green beans, or even corn. Just keep in mind that some veggies may require slight adjustments in cooking time to ensure everything is tender and delicious!
