This easy slow cooker chicken stew is a warm and cozy meal! With tender chicken, hearty veggies, and a flavorful broth, it’s perfect for busy days.
I love how the slow cooker does all the work while I can kick back and relax. Plus, who doesn’t enjoy coming home to the smell of dinner ready to go?
Just toss everything in, set the timer, and you’ll have a delicious stew waiting for you. It’s like a big hug in a bowl on chilly nights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like using chicken thighs for their juiciness and flavor, but chicken breasts work too. If you’re looking for a leaner option, go with breasts. You can even use rotisserie chicken to save time!
Vegetables: Carrots and potatoes are classics in stew. You can swap in any root vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes. If you have leftover veggies in the fridge, throw them in—zucchini or bell peppers could add a nice twist!
Broth: Chicken broth enhances the flavors, but vegetable broth is a great substitute for a lighter option. Homemade broth can add depth, so don’t hesitate to use what you have!
Herbs: Thyme, parsley, and rosemary create a wonderful aroma. If you don’t have dried herbs, fresh ones can work too—just use about three times the amount. No thyme? Oregano could be a good stand-in!
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Cooked Chicken in My Stew?
Cooking chicken in a slow cooker is simple but needs some attention for great results! Whether you brown the chicken first or not, the key is to monitor the cooking time.
- Brown the chicken for extra flavor, but it’s totally fine if you skip this step.
- Add everything to the slow cooker and ensure the lid fits tightly to keep the moisture in.
- Don’t open the lid during cooking unless needed, as this lets heat escape and can prolong cooking time.
- Check if the chicken is tender after the time is up. If it shreds easily with a fork, it’s ready!
With these tips, your chicken will be moist, flavorful, and perfect for a comforting stew!
Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stew:
- 1.5 pounds (700g) 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
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 4 cups (1 liter) chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
For Flavoring:
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Thickening (Optional):
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy slow cooker chicken stew takes about 15 minutes to prep. Once you’ve added everything to the slow cooker, you can set it to cook. If you use the low setting, allow about 6-8 hours, or just 3-4 hours on high. The longer you let it cook, the richer the flavors become! Perfect for busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Chicken (Optional):
If you have a few extra minutes, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken chunks and cook them for about 3-4 minutes, just until they’re lightly browned on all sides. This step enhances the flavor of the chicken, but you can skip it if you’re in a hurry!
2. Add to Slow Cooker:
Place the browned (or raw) chicken into your slow cooker. Don’t worry about it being raw; it will cook perfectly during the slow cooking process!
3. Toss in the Veggies:
Add the carrots, potatoes, onion, garlic, and celery to the slow cooker on top of the chicken. These veggies are packed with flavor and nutrition!
4. Pour in the Broth and Season:
Pour the chicken broth over the ingredients in the slow cooker. Sprinkle in the dried thyme, parsley, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir to help mix everything up a bit!
5. Set It and Forget It:
Cover the slow cooker with the lid. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender, and the vegetables should be soft when it’s done cooking.
6. Stir in Peas (If Using):
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, stir in the frozen peas for a pop of color and sweetness. They add that perfect finish!
7. Thicken the Stew (Optional):
If you like a thicker stew, mix the flour with 1/4 cup of cold water in a small bowl until smooth, then stir it into the stew. Be sure to cover it back up and let it cook on high for an extra 20-30 minutes to thicken.
8. Finish and Serve:
Once it’s time to eat, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot with some crusty bread on the side or over a scoop of rice. Enjoy your home-cooked warm bowl of comfort!
Enjoy your comforting and easy slow cooker chicken stew!
FAQ
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes! You can directly add frozen chicken pieces to the slow cooker. Just keep in mind that cooking time may increase by 1-2 hours, so ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before serving.
How Can I Make This Stew Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with hearty veggies like mushrooms or eggplant, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add canned beans or lentils for protein!
What Should I Do With Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a pot on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. You may need to add a splash of broth or water for the best texture!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Stew?
Absolutely! This stew is very versatile. You can add vegetables like parsnips, turnips, green beans, or even corn. Just be mindful of cooking times; softer veggies can be added in the last 30 minutes of cooking to keep their texture!
