This cozy slow cooker chicken stew is packed with tender chicken, delicious veggies, and tasty herbs. It’s super easy to make—just toss everything in and let it cook!
I love coming home to the wonderful smell of stew waiting for me. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly nights! Plus, leftovers make a great lunch the next day.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts are great for this stew. If you’re looking for a leaner option, go with chicken breasts. Alternatively, you can use bone-in chicken—just remember to remove the bones before serving.
Vegetables: Carrots and potatoes are classics in stews. If you’re short on time, you can use frozen mixed vegetables instead, but add them towards the end of cooking to retain some crunch. Sweet potatoes also make a tasty substitute for regular potatoes!
Chicken broth: Homemade broth tastes best, but store-bought is totally fine. Use low-sodium broth if you’re watching your salt intake. For a richer flavor, you could also use vegetable broth as a vegetarian option.
Herbs: Dried herbs like thyme, parsley, and rosemary add depth to the dish. If fresh herbs are available, use them for an even brighter flavor. Just remember to use about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried.
How Can I Get the Perfect Stew Consistency?
Getting the right thickness for your stew can be tricky, but don’t worry! Here are some steps to help you achieve the perfect consistency:
- Cook your stew thoroughly so the vegetables break down slightly, naturally thickening the mixture.
- If you want a thicker stew, make a flour slurry: mix flour with a bit of cold water until smooth, and stir into the stew. This prevents clumps.
- Let the stew simmer uncovered for a bit to allow steam to escape and thicken it up.
- Keep taste-testing! Add salt and pepper to agree with your preferences.
These tips will help ensure your stew is just the right texture and flavor! Enjoy warming up with each bowlful!
Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 to 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil (optional, for sautéing)
- 2 tbsp flour (optional, for thickening)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This slow cooker chicken stew takes about 10 minutes of prep time and then cooks for either 6 to 7 hours on low heat or 3 to 4 hours on high heat. Just set it and forget it! After cooking, you’ll need an additional 15 minutes for the optional thickening, totaling around 7 to 8 hours for the stew to be ready.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Ingredients:
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Make sure to peel and chop the carrots and potatoes, chop the celery, and dice the onion. Mince the garlic as well; this will enhance the flavor of your stew!
2. Layer the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts or thighs at the bottom of your slow cooker. This helps with even cooking and ensures the chicken stays juicy!
3. Add the Vegetables:
Next, pile on the chopped carrots, potatoes, celery, onion, and minced garlic over the chicken. It’s a colorful mix!
4. Pour in the Broth and Seasonings:
Carefully pour the chicken broth over the vegetables and chicken. Then, sprinkle the thyme, parsley, rosemary, salt, and pepper evenly over everything. These herbs will make your stew taste delicious!
5. Set and Cook:
Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook. You can choose low for 6 to 7 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. Just let it work its magic until the vegetables are tender and the chicken is fully cooked!
6. Shred the Chicken:
When the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken pieces using tongs. Shred them with two forks, and then return the shredded chicken back into the slow cooker. It’s going to be so flavorful!
7. Add Peas and Thicken (Optional):
Stir in the frozen peas and cook uncovered on high for an additional 10-15 minutes. If you like a thicker stew, mix the flour with a little cold water to create a slurry, then stir it in. Let it cook for another 15 minutes to thicken up.
8. Final Touches:
Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if you feel it needs a bit more salt or pepper. It should be bursting with flavor!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the warm stew into bowls, sprinkle with some extra chopped fresh parsley for a nice touch, and serve it hot with crusty bread. Enjoy your hearty, comforting meal!
This slow cooker chicken stew is perfect for a chilly day and will leave you feeling cozy and satisfied!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely first. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or use the quick method by placing it in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. This ensures even cooking and proper texture in your stew!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything the night before, then store it in the fridge. In the morning, just pop it into the slow cooker. The flavors meld beautifully and it’s a great meal prep option!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. If it thickens too much, simply add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your stew with other vegetables like green beans, corn, or bell peppers. Just remember to cut them into similar-sized pieces, so they cook evenly.
