This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is perfect for cozy nights! It features tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a flavorful broth that warms you from the inside out.
I love how simple it is—just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work. It’s like having a delicious hug waiting for you at dinner time! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless thighs are my go-to for their tenderness. However, chicken breasts work just fine too. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use skinless breasts, but remember they might be less juicy.
Vegetables: Carrots and potatoes are classic, but feel free to add other veggies like green beans or peas. For a low-carb option, swap potatoes for cauliflower. You can also use frozen veggies if time is tight!
Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth helps control salt levels. For a richer flavor, consider using homemade broth, or vegetable broth if you want a vegetarian twist.
Herbs: Dried thyme and rosemary are staple flavors here. If you have fresh herbs, use them! Just double the amount as fresh herbs are less concentrated.
How Do I Achieve the Best Flavor When Cooking in a Slow Cooker?
Achieving flavor in a slow cooker is all about layering ingredients right. While browning the chicken is optional, it does add depth. Here are a few tips:
- Always sauté onions, garlic, and meats first. It enhances flavors!
- Add hearty vegetables that can hold up to long cooking, like carrots and potatoes.
- Use a good amount of liquid. The slow cooker needs it to create steam and keep things moist.
- Season throughout cooking. A pinch of salt here and there while prepping can make a big difference.
Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew for Cozy Dinners
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stew:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
- 4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes for prep and cooking time can take anywhere from 3 to 8 hours depending on whether you set your slow cooker to high or low. It’s perfect for letting flavors simmer while you go about your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Browning the Chicken:
Begin by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken chunks and brown them lightly for about 2-3 minutes on each side. This step is optional but really helps to boost the flavor of the stew!
2. Load the Slow Cooker:
Transfer the browned chicken into your slow cooker. Then, add in the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, chopped onion, sliced celery, and minced garlic. It’s a colorful mix!
3. Add Broth and Seasonings:
Pour the chicken broth into the slow cooker, followed by the thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper. Gently stir everything together to combine all those lovely flavors.
4. Cooking Time:
Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook. If you’re in a hurry, choose high for 3-4 hours. For a slower, more developed flavor, set it on low and let it simmer for 6-8 hours. Either way, you’ll end up with tender chicken and veggies!
5. Optional Thickening:
If you prefer a thicker stew, about 30 minutes before serving, mix the flour with a small amount of cold water to create a slurry. Stir it into the stew and let it cook a bit longer until thickened.
6. Final Touches:
Before serving, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning if needed. Sometimes it just needs a pinch more salt or pepper!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your warm stew in bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Enjoy every cozy bite!
This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is perfect for those chilly nights when all you want is a comforting meal waiting for you at the end of the day. Cozy up and enjoy!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to cook it on high for about 5-6 hours, as frozen chicken takes longer to reach safe cooking temperatures. Alternatively, thaw it overnight in the fridge before adding it to the slow cooker for even cooking.
Can I Substitute the Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other veggies like green beans, corn, or even mushrooms if you prefer. Just ensure they are cut into similar sizes for even cooking. If you’re short on time, frozen vegetables can be a great option too!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or use the microwave until heated through. You can add a splash of broth if it thickens too much during storage.
Can I Make This Stew Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare this stew a day in advance! Just follow the recipe up to the cooking step, refrigerate it, and then cook it the next day in the slow cooker. This also allows the flavors to develop more as they sit together!
