This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is a warm hug in a bowl! With tender chicken, hearty veggies, and a savory broth, it’s perfect for chilly evenings.
The best part? Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic. I love coming home to that amazing smell! Plus, it’s great for leftovers. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I love using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their tenderness and flavor. However, if you prefer a leaner option, boneless, skinless chicken breasts work just fine. You can also use leftover rotisserie chicken; just add it in the last hour of cooking to heat through.
Carrots and Celery: These veggies add great flavor and texture. If you’re in a pinch, you could swap in frozen mixed vegetables or even use parsnips instead of carrots for a twist.
Potatoes: I recommend using Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for creaminess. If you’re low-carb, diced cauliflower makes a good substitute—they’ll soften well during cooking!
Herbs: Dried thyme and rosemary give the stew a warm, comforting aroma. If you have fresh herbs, use those! Just double the amount for the best flavor. If you’re out of thyme or rosemary, Italian seasoning could be a good alternative.
How Can I Ensure My Stew Has Lots of Flavor?
To boost the flavor in your stew, follow these steps:
- **Browning the Chicken:** Searing the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker enhances its flavor. Don’t skip this step if you have the time!
- **Layering Ingredients:** Add your vegetables, aromatics, and spices before the broth. This helps everything cook evenly and develop deeper flavors.
- **Let it Simmer Long:** Cooking on low for the full time lets all the flavors meld together beautifully. Try not to open the lid while it’s cooking, as this releases heat and lengthens cooking time.
- **Taste Before Serving:** Adjust seasoning at the end. If it needs a little kick, a splash of hot sauce or a squeeze of lemon can brighten the flavors.
This way, you’ll have a hearty, flavorful chicken stew that everyone will love!
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 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 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?
This comforting chicken stew takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus cooking time of 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the slow cooker. Allow about 30 minutes to stir in the peas and thicken, if desired. Perfect for enjoying a cozy dinner at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Chicken:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken chunks and cook until they are lightly browned on all sides (about 3-4 minutes). This step is optional but adds a nice flavor to your stew.
2. Prepare the Slow Cooker:
Transfer the browned chicken into the slow cooker. Add in the sliced carrots, celery, chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced potatoes. This creates a beautiful base for your stew!
3. Add Broth and Spices:
Pour in the chicken broth, then sprinkle in the thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, paprika, and season with salt and pepper. Give everything a gentle stir to combine the ingredients.
4. Cook It Up:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender, and the vegetables should be cooked through. Don’t forget to smell that delicious aroma as it cooks!
5. Add the Peas:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the frozen peas. They’ll add sweetness and color to your stew.
6. Thicken the Stew (Optional):
If you want a thicker stew, mix the flour with 1/4 cup of cold water to make a slurry. Stir it into the slow cooker and cook uncovered for the last 20-30 minutes.
7. Final Touch:
Before serving, remember to remove the bay leaf. Garnish your stew with freshly chopped parsley to add a touch of brightness!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your cozy chicken stew warm, alongside crusty bread or over a bed of rice. Enjoy this hearty meal with family or friends!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but for best results, thaw it first! The easiest way to thaw is to place it in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re short on time, you can also use the cold water method: seal the chicken in a plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about an hour.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken 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 for even heating. You may need to add a little water or broth to loosen it up.
Can I Make This Stew Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stew in advance and just reheat it. This can actually enhance the flavors as they continue to meld together. Just make sure to cool it completely before storing it in the fridge.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
This stew is very versatile! You can include vegetables like green beans, corn, or even bell peppers. Just keep in mind that some veggies may cook faster than others, so add them in accordingly to avoid overcooking.
