This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is warm, hearty, and super easy to make! Just toss in chicken, veggies, and spices, and let the slow cooker do all the work while you relax.
The best part? Your home will smell amazing, and you’ll have a tasty meal waiting for you. I love pairing it with some crusty bread to soak up all that delicious broth!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: You can use chicken breasts or thighs. Thighs are juicier and add more flavor. If you want a healthier alternative, use skinless chicken, or for a vegetarian option, substitute with hearty chickpeas or a mix of mushrooms.
Vegetables: Carrots, potatoes, and celery are classic in this dish. Feel free to swap in parsnips, sweet potatoes, or turnips if you prefer. Frozen mixed veggies can also work in a pinch.
Seasonings: Dried thyme and rosemary give great flavor. If you don’t have them, Italian seasoning can be a good substitute. For a kick, you might even add some red pepper flakes!
Chicken Broth: Homemade is best, but store-bought works too! For a lighter option, you can use vegetable broth. Just check the sodium content if you’re watching your salt intake.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Tender in the Stew?
Tender chicken is crucial for a great stew! Here are some tips to keep it juicy:
- Brown the chicken first, if you can! This adds flavor and moisture.
- Cook it low and slow. The long, slow cooking helps break down the meat, making it tender.
- Don’t rush the cooking time; it’s key to ensure everything is cooked perfectly.
If you’re going for a thicker stew, adding that cornstarch mixture helps, but do it towards the end to avoid overcooking your chicken. Happy stewing!
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stew:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3-4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 3 stalks celery, sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary (plus additional fresh rosemary for garnish, optional)
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water (optional, for thickening)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew requires about 15 minutes of prep time and cooks for either 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. That means in just a little over 3 hours, you can have a warm, hearty meal ready for your family!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Begin by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. If you like a richer flavor, lightly brown the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side, then transfer it to the slow cooker. If you prefer, you can place the raw chicken directly in the slow cooker.
2. Add the Vegetables:
On top of the chicken in the slow cooker, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, cubed potatoes, and sliced celery. This makes sure all those yummy flavors blend together during cooking!
3. Pour in the Broth:
Pour 4 cups of chicken broth over the ingredients. This will help to create a comforting stew as it cooks.
4. Season It Up:
Add salt, black pepper, thyme, rosemary, paprika, and the bay leaf. Stir everything gently to combine so that the spices are evenly distributed.
5. Cook It:
Cover the slow cooker and let it do its magic! Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender.
6. Thicken the Stew (Optional):
If you like your stew thicker, about 30 minutes before serving, stir in the cornstarch-water mixture. Increase the heat to high and leave the lid off to let it thicken up nicely.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, make sure to remove the bay leaf. You can garnish with fresh rosemary if you’d like. This stew is perfect served hot with crusty bread or over a bed of rice. Enjoy the comforting, hearty flavors!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure it’s cooked thoroughly. It’s best to thaw it beforehand in the fridge overnight or using a cold water bath. If using frozen chicken, you may want to extend the cooking time by an hour.
Can I Make This Stew in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prep and assemble the stew ingredients the night before and store them in the fridge. Just add the chicken broth the next morning and start cooking. This way, you can enjoy a warm meal when you come home!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating!
What Can I Serve with This Chicken Stew?
This chicken stew pairs well with crusty bread for dipping, rice, or even a simple side salad. If you want to keep it low-carb, serve it with roasted vegetables or cauliflower rice for a satisfying yet healthier option.
