This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is cozy and packed with flavor. Just toss in chicken, veggies, and seasonings, then let the magic happen while you go about your day!
The best part? You can come home to a warm, hearty meal without lifting a finger. It’s my go-to for busy nights—and let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a good stew? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I prefer boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness, but breasts work too. You could also use shredded rotisserie chicken if you’re short on time; just add it during the last hour of cooking.
Vegetables: Carrots, celery, onions, and potatoes give the stew a nice base. If you don’t have one, feel free to swap in whatever veggies you like, such as parsnips or green beans. Just adjust the cook time a bit if needed.
Broth: Chicken broth adds flavor, but vegetable broth is a great substitute if you’re looking for a vegetarian option. Homemade broth can elevate the taste even more if you have some on hand.
Seasonings: Thyme and rosemary are classic, but you can mix it up! Try Italian seasoning or your favorite herbs. A dash of lemon juice at the end brightens the flavors beautifully.
How Do You Achieve Tender Chicken and Perfectly Cooked Vegetables?
The key to perfectly tender chicken and vegetables is the slow cooking process. Here are steps to ensure everything cooks just right:
- Start on high heat if you’re short on time, but the low setting (6-7 hours) is best for flavor and tenderness.
- Brown the chicken first! It caramelizes the meat and enhances the overall taste.
- Cut your veggies uniform in size for even cooking. You want everything to be fork-tender!
- Thickening the stew is easier with cornstarch. Mixing it in 30 minutes before serving ensures it won’t clump.
Make sure to taste it before serving! You might want to add a pinch more salt or pepper for that perfect balance.
Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stew:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
- 4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Thicker Stew:
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
For Browning:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew will take you about 15 minutes to prep and then you can let it cook! You’ll need to allow 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high for the flavors to meld together perfectly. So, you can set it in the morning and come home to a lovely dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Chicken (Optional):
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and lightly brown them on all sides, which should take about 4-5 minutes. This step is optional, but it adds a great depth of flavor to your stew!
2. Combine Ingredients:
Once browned, place the chicken in your slow cooker. Then add the sliced carrots, celery, chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced potatoes. Mix them together gently.
3. Add Liquids and Seasonings:
Pour the chicken broth into the slow cooker. Next, sprinkle in the dried thyme, rosemary, paprika, and season with salt and pepper. Stir everything a little to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed.
4. Cooking Time:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You want the chicken and vegetables to be tender and flavorful!
5. Thicken the Stew:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, mix the cornstarch with cold water in a small bowl to make a slurry. Slowly stir this slurry into the stew to thicken the broth and make it richer. Cover again and let it cook for the remaining time.
6. Add Peas and Serve:
Don’t forget the peas! Add the frozen peas to the stew, cover, and cook for an additional 30 minutes. Lastly, taste your stew and adjust the seasoning if necessary before serving.
Enjoy your hearty, comforting slow cooker chicken stew! Feel free to serve it with some crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal. 😊
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! However, make sure to thaw it beforehand for even cooking. Thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight or in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water before adding it to the slow cooker.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stew and add all the ingredients to the slow cooker the night before. Just store it in the refrigerator and set the cooker in the morning to have a hot meal waiting for you. If you prefer, you can also cook it completely and refrigerate the leftovers to enjoy later!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the stew for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
What Can I Serve with Chicken Stew?
This stew is great on its own, but for a complete meal, serve it with crusty bread, rice, or mashed potatoes. A simple green salad on the side adds a nice touch as well!
