Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe

Oh, the joy of a slow cooker simmering away in the kitchen! I still remember the first time I stumbled upon my now-beloved slow cooker chicken stew recipe. It was a chilly autumn day; the leaves were turning golden, and the air was crisp with the promise of the season. As I rifled through my grandmother’s old recipe box, I found a handwritten card that read “Comfort in a bowl.” That day, I decided to give it a whirl, and let me tell you—the captivating aromas of garlic, thyme, and tender chicken filled my cozy kitchen. That first taste was pure magic—the stew was rich, hearty, and teeming with flavor. I knew I’d found a treasure that would keep me warm for many autumn and winter nights to come.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

I’ve made this stew for friends, family, and of course, for myself on those quiet evenings when the world outside is buzzing. The way it wraps you in a comforting embrace is something special, and I can’t wait for you to experience it too. So grab your slow cooker, and let’s create a dish that fills your home with warmth and your belly with joy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Just pop everything into the slow cooker and let it do its magic!
• Healthful Choice: Packed with veggies, lean chicken, and wholesome ingredients.
• Flavorful Comfort: A medley of herbs and spices transforms simple ingredients into a hearty feast.
• Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
• Leftover Heaven: Tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients

For the Stew:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts: Thighs are juicier and add wonderful flavor; either works just fine.
• 3 carrots, diced: Sweet and earthy, they’ll add nice color and flavor.
• 3 celery stalks, diced: For that classic aromatic base; it brings a wonderful crunch and fresh taste.
• 1 onion, diced: The aromatic powerhouse, bringing all the flavors together.
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed: These will make your stew hearty and satisfying.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: For that deliciously uplifting aroma and flavor; it’s a must!
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Builds the base of your stew—choose low-sodium for better control over seasoning.
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste: A little sweetness and depth—don’t skip this!
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Earthy notes that add warmth—perfect for this dish.
• 2 bay leaves: They work wonders in infusing flavors; just remember to remove them before serving!
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for bringing out all these wonderful flavors.
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening): If you like a thicker stew, this is your secret weapon.
• For garnish: Fresh parsley, chopped: A pop of color and freshness to brighten up each bowl.

Full recipe card is below.

How to Make It

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Start by heating a skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil and sear your chicken pieces until they’re golden brown—about 5-7 minutes per side. This step adds a rich flavor that will elevate your stew to the next level, filling your kitchen with mouthwatering smells!

Step 2: Load the Slow Cooker

Once the chicken is seared, place it into the slow cooker along with the diced vegetables, potatoes, minced garlic, and bay leaves. Stir them together like you’re inviting all your friends to a cozy gathering.

Step 3: Season It Up

Sprinkle your dried thyme, salt, and pepper over the top of the contents in the slow cooker. Give it a gentle stir to combine the flavors, and feel free to sneak a taste of the veggies—they’re irresistible!

Step 4: Pour in the Broth

Gently pour in the chicken broth. If you like your stew a little thicker, whisk in the 1/4 cup of flour in a small bowl before adding it to the pot. This will create a velvety stew that coats every ingredient beautifully.

Step 5: Let it Cook

Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours. As it cooks, your home will be filled with the most delightful aroma, beckoning you to come back for more.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Once the chicken is cooked through and the veggies are tender, remove the bay leaves. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, then ladle your stew into bowls. Don’t forget to sprinkle fresh parsley on top—it’s like a warm hug for your stew!

Pro Tips for Success

• Prep Ahead: Dice your veggies the day before to easily toss everything in when you’re ready to cook.
• Don’t Rush on Searing: Take your time to get a good golden brown on the chicken to maximize flavor.
• Season Throughout: Don’t be shy—taste your stew throughout the cooking process to ensure the perfect seasoning.
• Add a Splash of Wine: A splash of white wine or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar can deepen the flavor even more!

Flavor Variations

Feel free to play around! Swap out the chicken for turkey or even add diced tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist. Seasonal vegetables like green beans or squash add freshness, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes brings in a little heat if you’re feeling adventurous.

Serving Suggestions

This stew pairs beautifully with a crusty loaf of bread or over fluffy rice. Serve it with a simple side salad and your favorite glass of red wine for a cozy dinner, or enjoy it alone while wrapped up in a soft blanket on the couch.

Make-Ahead & Storage

You can prep all your veggies and chicken the night before and store them in the fridge. Once everything is ready, it’s as simple as tossing it in the slow cooker! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Leftovers

One of the best parts of a good stew is the leftovers! Use them to create a hearty soup by adding some broth or water, or transform it into a tasty pot pie by topping it with pastry and baking until golden.

Freezing

Absolutely! This chicken stew freezes beautifully. Just make sure it’s cooled completely before transferring it to airtight freezer bags. Lay them flat in the freezer for easy storage. To thaw, simply leave it in the fridge overnight.

Reheating

The best way to reheat your stew is on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also use the microwave—just be sure to cover it to keep the moisture in!

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to add an extra hour or so to the cooking time since it takes longer for frozen chicken to cook through.

Can I add beans to this stew?
Absolutely! Beans like white beans or chickpeas can create a more hearty texture and add protein.

What if I don’t have a slow cooker?
No worries! You can easily make this stew in a large pot on the stovetop. Just simmer it on low, stirring occasionally, until the chicken and veggies are tender.

Can I use other vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite vegetables—just remember that harder veggies will take longer to cook.

Final Thoughts

As you whip up this soothing slow cooker chicken stew, I hope the delightful aromas brighten your day and fill your heart with warmth. This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of love, comfort, and togetherness. I can’t wait for you to create delicious memories around your dinner table with each bowl of this hearty stew. Happy cooking, dear friends! ✨