Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
- Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes to 8 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is the ultimate comforting, one-pot meal, featuring tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and aromatic herbs. Made effortlessly in the slow cooker, this wholesome dish is perfect for busy weeknights, cozy fall evenings, or meal prep. Serve it warm for a nutritious, satisfying dinner that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 3 carrots, diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Optional Searing:
In a skillet over medium-high heat, sear the chicken pieces until golden brown for added flavor. - Assemble in Slow Cooker:
Place the chicken (seared or raw), carrots, celery, onion, potatoes, garlic, and bay leaves into the slow cooker. - Season:
Sprinkle dried thyme, salt, and pepper over the ingredients. Stir gently to combine. - Prepare the Broth:
In a bowl, whisk together the chicken broth and tomato paste until smooth. Pour this mixture over the ingredients in the slow cooker. - Optional Thickening:
For a thicker stew, sprinkle the flour over the contents and stir well to incorporate. - Cook:
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and the vegetables are cooked through. - Final Steps:
Before serving, remove the bay leaves. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. - Serve:
Ladle the stew into bowls, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and enjoy warm with crusty bread or a side salad.
Notes
- Substitute potatoes with sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter flavor.
- For a gluten-free option, thicken the stew with cornstarch instead of flour.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly days or cozy family dinners. Tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and flavorful herbs simmer together in a rich broth to create a wholesome, one-pot meal that’s easy to prepare. This recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- A set-it-and-forget-it meal that requires minimal effort.
- Packed with protein, vegetables, and warm, savory flavors.
- Customizable for dietary preferences with easy swaps and add-ins.
- Perfect for meal prep or make-ahead dinners.
- A hearty, satisfying dish that’s both comforting and healthy.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 3 carrots, diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
1. Sear the Chicken (Optional)
For enhanced flavor, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken pieces until golden brown on both sides. This step is optional but adds a rich depth to the stew.
2. Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker
Place the seared chicken (or raw chicken, if skipping the searing step) in the slow cooker. Add the diced carrots, celery, onion, potatoes, minced garlic, and bay leaves.
3. Season and Combine
Sprinkle the dried thyme, salt, and pepper over the ingredients, and gently stir to combine.
4. Prepare the Broth
In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth and tomato paste until smooth. Pour the mixture over the contents in the slow cooker.
5. Optional Thickening
If you prefer a thicker stew, sprinkle 1/4 cup all-purpose flour over the mixture and stir until fully incorporated.
6. Cook
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
7. Final Touches
Before serving, remove the bay leaves. Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
8. Serve
Ladle the stew into bowls, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve warm.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
- Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes to 8 hours 20 minutes
Variations
- Gluten-Free Option: Omit the flour or thicken the stew with a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water).
- Add More Veggies: Toss in green beans, peas, or mushrooms for added nutrition and variety.
- Herb Boost: Use fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs for more vibrant herbal notes.
- Creamy Twist: Stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk during the last 15 minutes for a creamy stew.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a bit of heat.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Allow the stew to cool completely, then freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
FAQs
1. Can I use bone-in chicken?
Yes, bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks work well and add extra flavor. Remove the bones before serving for easier eating.
2. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes add a subtle sweetness and pair beautifully with the savory broth.
3. How can I make the stew dairy-free?
This recipe is already dairy-free. Simply skip any optional creamy additions if avoiding dairy.
4. Can I substitute tomato paste?
If you don’t have tomato paste, you can use 1/4 cup of tomato sauce or skip it for a lighter broth.
5. Can I make this stew in a pressure cooker?
Yes, cook on high pressure for 15 minutes and allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
6. What can I serve with this stew?
Serve with crusty bread, biscuits, or a side salad for a complete meal.
7. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, frozen chicken can be used, but extend the cooking time by about 30 minutes. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8. How do I prevent mushy vegetables?
Cut vegetables into larger chunks to help them hold their shape during the long cooking time.
9. Can I add pasta or rice?
Yes, cook pasta or rice separately and stir it into the stew just before serving.
10. How can I make the stew more flavorful?
Searing the chicken, adding extra herbs, or using homemade chicken broth can all enhance the flavor.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is the perfect meal for busy days when you want a hearty, comforting dish without much effort. Packed with tender chicken, wholesome vegetables, and savory herbs, this stew is satisfying, nutritious, and easy to make. With simple ingredients and endless variations, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home. Try it today for a cozy, delicious dinner!
