Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is a comforting dish perfect for any day of the week. It combines tender chicken with hearty vegetables and a savory broth, making it a satisfying meal. The slow cooker allows all the flavors to blend beautifully, providing a delicious aroma as it cooks.
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Why make this recipe
Choosing to make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is a wonderful option for busy individuals or families. This recipe is simple, requires minimal effort, and the slow cooker takes care of the cooking while you attend to other tasks. It is also a great way to use up leftover vegetables and provides a wholesome meal that your entire family will enjoy.
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 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.
Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
A comforting Slow Cooker Chicken Stew that combines tender chicken with hearty vegetables in a savory broth.
- Total Time: 255 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
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)
Instructions
- 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 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.
Notes
For a richer flavor, add a splash of white wine. You can use other vegetables like peas or green beans, and adjust the thickness with more flour if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 240 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free Option Available
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
How to serve Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Stew hot in bowls. It’s delightful on its own, but you can add some crusty bread or rice on the side for a complete meal. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds a nice touch and extra flavor.
How to store Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
You can store any leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Place the cooled stew in a freezer-safe container, and it can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Tips to make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
- For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the broth.
- You can add in other vegetables such as peas or green beans for variety.
- If you like your stew thicker, don’t hesitate to add a bit more flour or cornstarch mixed with cold water.
Variations
For a spicy twist, you can add a few red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to give the stew some heat. Alternatively, swap out the chicken for beef or turkey for a different flavor experience.
If you love slow cooked chicken recipes, check out this Crock Pot Angel Chicken.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken in this recipe. Just increase the cooking time by a couple of hours.
2. Can I use other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
3. Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, avoid using flour for thickening, or use a gluten-free flour substitute.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is an easy and enjoyable recipe that brings comfort food to your table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend gathering, this dish is sure to please everyone. With its simple ingredients and hassle-free preparation, you’ll find yourself making this wholesome stew again and again.
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