Why Make This Recipe
Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is a wonderful meal that warms you up on cold days. It’s comforting, filling, and easy to prepare. Using a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it. This stew is perfect for busy days when you want a home-cooked meal without much fuss. Plus, it’s a great way to use fresh vegetables and lean protein.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
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, optional)
Directions:
- Sear the chicken in a hot skillet until golden brown.
- Place the seared chicken, diced vegetables, potatoes, minced garlic, and bay leaves into the slow cooker.
- Sprinkle thyme, salt, and pepper over the ingredients and stir to distribute the flavors.
- Pour in the chicken broth. If using flour, whisk it with a little broth or water before adding or sprinkle it over and stir to thicken.
- Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until chicken and vegetables are tender.
- Remove bay leaves, taste and adjust seasoning, and serve garnished with fresh parsley.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Stew warm in bowls. It pairs well with crusty bread for dipping or over a bed of rice for a more filling meal. You can also top it with fresh parsley for an added touch of color and flavor.
How to Store Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
To store leftovers, let the stew cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will last for 3-4 days in the fridge. You can also freeze the stew for longer storage. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container and it will keep for about 2-3 months. Reheat before serving.
Tips to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
- Searing the chicken helps to lock in flavors and adds a nice color to the dish.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or green beans for extra nutrition.
- If you prefer a thicker stew, use the flour option or add more flour during cooking.
- Don’t skip the bay leaves; they add a lovely depth of flavor to the stew.
Variation
You can switch up the main protein by using beef or turkey instead of chicken. For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with diced firm tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You may also add herbs like rosemary or oregano for a twist on the flavor.
FAQs
Can I cook this on high in the slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook the stew on high for 3-4 hours if you need it ready sooner.
Is slow cooker chicken stew healthy?
Yes! It is packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables, making it a nutritious option.
What can I serve with chicken stew?
Crusty bread, rice, or a simple salad complement the stew nicely.
Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts Can use either thighs or breasts.
- 3 carrots, diced Adds sweetness and color.
- 3 stalks celery, diced Adds flavor and texture.
- 1 onion, diced Enhances flavor base.
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed Provides heartiness.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced Adds depth of flavor.
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth Keeps the stew healthy.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste Enhances the stew's richness.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves Adds flavor.
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening) Use to thicken the stew if desired.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional) For garnish and added flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Sear the chicken in a hot skillet until golden brown.
- Place the seared chicken, diced vegetables, potatoes, minced garlic, and bay leaves into the slow cooker.
- Sprinkle thyme, salt, and pepper over the ingredients and stir to distribute the flavors.
- Pour in the chicken broth. If using flour, whisk it with a little broth or water before adding or sprinkle it over and stir to thicken.
Cooking
- Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until chicken and vegetables are tender.
- Remove bay leaves, taste and adjust seasoning, and serve garnished with fresh parsley.