Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is a wholesome recipe that brings together tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and aromatic herbs, all cooked slowly to create rich flavors. Using a slow cooker makes this meal simple to prepare while still delivering comforting, homemade taste. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or whenever you want a satisfying dish with minimal effort. With carrots, potatoes, celery, and peas, it provides a complete balance of protein and vegetables in one bowl. It’s a healthy, filling option that can easily become part of your weekly menu.
Why You’ll Love This Stew
- Effortless cooking: Everything goes into the slow cooker, and it does the work for you while you go about your day.
- Nutritious and filling: Packed with lean chicken, vegetables, and herbs, this stew offers a balanced meal without the need for additional side dishes.
- Versatile recipe: You can customize it by adding different vegetables or adjusting the seasoning to suit your taste.
- Perfect for leftovers: It tastes even better the next day, making it a great option for meal prep and weekly lunches.
- Family-friendly flavor: The combination of tender chicken, potatoes, and carrots creates a mild yet flavorful dish that both adults and kids will enjoy.
Ingredients Needed
To prepare a flavorful and hearty slow cooker chicken stew, gather the following ingredients. These are simple, everyday items that come together to create a balanced and nutritious dish:
- Chicken thighs (1 lb, cubed): Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal for slow cooking because they stay tender and juicy.
- Carrots (4, sliced): Add natural sweetness and texture to the stew.
- Potatoes (3, diced): A filling base that makes the stew hearty and satisfying. Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work well.
- Celery stalks (2, sliced): Provide subtle flavor and a slight crunch.
- Onion (1, chopped): Enhances depth of flavor and adds a savory foundation.
- Garlic cloves (3, minced): Brings aromatic richness to the broth.
- Chicken broth (4 cups): Low-sodium broth is best to control salt levels while delivering rich flavor.
- Thyme (1 tsp): A classic herb that pairs well with chicken and vegetables.
- Rosemary (1 tsp): Adds a fragrant, earthy taste.
- Bay leaf (1): Infuses the broth with subtle, layered flavor.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for balancing and enhancing flavors.
- Flour (2 tbsp): Used to thicken the broth into a stew-like consistency.
- Frozen peas (1/2 cup): Stirred in at the end for color, texture, and a touch of sweetness.
Optional additions for extra flavor:
- Tomato paste (1 tbsp): For richer color and taste.
- Olive oil (1 tbsp): If you prefer to sear the chicken before slow cooking.
- Fresh parsley: For garnish just before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious slow cooker chicken stew:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Wash, peel, and chop all the vegetables. Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized cubes. Mince garlic and chop the onion finely to release maximum flavor during cooking.
Step 2: Layer in the Slow Cooker
Place chicken cubes at the bottom of the slow cooker, followed by carrots, potatoes, celery, onion, and garlic. This layering ensures the chicken cooks evenly and the vegetables absorb flavor.
Step 3: Season and Add Herbs
Sprinkle thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper over the ingredients. Add the bay leaf to the pot. These herbs will slowly release their aroma and enhance the broth.
Step 4: Add Broth and Thickener
Pour in the chicken broth. In a small bowl, mix the flour with a few tablespoons of broth until smooth, then stir this mixture into the slow cooker. This step prevents lumps and helps the stew develop a thicker texture.
Step 5: Set the Slow Cooker
- On Low: Cook for 6–8 hours.
- On High: Cook for 3–4 hours.
During this time, the chicken becomes tender, and the vegetables soften while absorbing the flavors of the broth and herbs.
Step 6: Add Peas
About 20 minutes before serving, stir in the frozen peas. They cook quickly and retain their bright green color and sweetness.
Step 7: Final Touches
Remove the bay leaf. Taste the stew and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Step 8: Serve
Ladle the stew into bowls and serve warm. It pairs perfectly with crusty bread, rice, or a light salad.
Cooking Tips
- For extra flavor, sear chicken in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker.
- If you prefer a thicker stew, add 1 more tablespoon of flour or cornstarch slurry.
- Leftovers keep well in the fridge for 3–4 days or freeze up to 2 months.
Comforting Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe
Description
A hearty and comforting slow cooker chicken stew made with tender chicken thighs, carrots, potatoes, celery, and peas. Slow-cooked with aromatic herbs and a savory broth, this easy recipe delivers a wholesome meal perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or cozy evenings.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Wash, peel, and chop the vegetables. Cut chicken into bite-sized cubes.
-
Add chicken, carrots, potatoes, celery, onion, and garlic to the slow cooker.
-
Season with thyme, rosemary, salt, pepper, and add the bay leaf.
-
Pour in the chicken broth. In a small bowl, mix flour with a few tablespoons of broth until smooth, then stir into the slow cooker.
-
Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours until chicken is tender and vegetables are cooked through.
-
Stir in frozen peas 20 minutes before serving.
-
Remove bay leaf, adjust seasoning if needed, and garnish with parsley.
-
Serve hot with bread, rice, or salad.
