Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

© Original Recipe By Whisk & Wander ©

Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew 🍲🐔✨

1. Introduction

If you’re searching for a hearty, comforting, and incredibly easy chicken recipe, look no further than this slow cooker chicken stew. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this one-pot chicken dinner combines tender chicken, vegetables, and flavorful herbs cooked to perfection in your slow cooker. As one of the best comfort food stews, it offers a warm, savory dish that needs minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. Ready to fill your home with the aroma of tender, slow-cooked chicken? Let’s start cooking!

2. Ingredients for a Delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

• 2 lbs (900 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into chunks
• 4 large carrots, sliced
• 3 medium potatoes, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 1 teaspoon rosemary
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Optional: 1 cup frozen peas or corn for extra sweetness

3. How to Prepare the Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of thyme. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken until browned on all sides. This step enhances the flavor but can be skipped for an even easier, dump-and-go method.

Step 2: Layer the Vegetables

Place the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, chopped onion, and sliced celery at the bottom of the slow cooker. These vegetables will add richness and texture to your stew.

Step 3: Add the Chicken and Seasonings

Layer the seared chicken on top of the vegetables. Sprinkle with minced garlic, rosemary, and additional salt and pepper as desired.

Step 4: Pour in the Chicken Broth

Pour the chicken broth over the ingredients. This liquid will help create a hearty, flavorful stew as it cooks.

Step 5: Cook Low and Slow

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The long, slow cooking process ensures the chicken becomes tender and absorbs all the delicious flavors.

Step 6: Add Final Touches

About 30 minutes before the end of cooking, add the optional frozen peas or corn for a touch of sweetness and color. Stir gently and let it finish cooking.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months for longer shelf life. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to revive the stew’s consistency.

5. Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Chicken Stew

This comfort food stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, warm dinner rolls, or a side of steamed rice or mashed potatoes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or thyme for a fresh burst of flavor. Want an extra creamy vibe? You can stir in a dollop of sour cream or a splash of heavy cream right before serving.

Looking for similar hearty recipes? Check out this creamy Parmesan spinach mushroom pasta or this cheesy slow cooker crack chicken soup.

6. FAQs about Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Can I make this stew with chicken breasts or thighs?

Yes! Both work well. Thighs will be more tender and moist, but breasts are perfectly fine if you prefer leaner meat. Adjust cooking time slightly if needed.

What are good substitutions for the vegetables?

You can include green beans, parsnips, or peas depending on your preferences. Just keep in mind the cooking times, so adding quick-cooking vegetables near the end is ideal.

How long does it take to prepare and cook?

The prep time is approximately 15 minutes, and the slow cooker cooking time is around 6-8 hours on low. It’s an incredibly easy, dump-it-and-forget-it meal.

Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?

To make it low-carb, reduce or eliminate the potatoes and serve with cauliflower rice or a side salad.

7. Essential Kitchen Tools for Making the Best Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

• Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker: Perfect for making a large batch of hearty stew effortlessly. Its programmable settings save you time and keep your stew at the optimal serving temperature.
• Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer: Useful if you want to sear your chicken quickly before slow cooking, giving that extra flavor punch.
• Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo: Adds versatility to your kitchen, perfect for preparing sides to serve alongside this stew.

Investing in quality tools like these ensures your slow cooker chicken stew turns out perfectly every time and streamlines your cooking process.

8. Final Tips for the Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

• Use fresh herbs for maximum flavor, or dried herbs if fresh aren’t available.
• Do not lift the lid frequently during cooking, as it releases heat and lengthens cooking time.
• Adjust seasoning at the end of cooking, since flavors develop over long periods.
• Make extra — leftovers taste even better the next day!

9. Conclusion

Enjoy the warm, satisfying nature of this easy chicken recipe with minimal effort. The slow cooker chicken stew is a fantastic example of comfort food stew, perfect for cozy nights or meal prep. With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a nourishing, flavorful dish that everyone will love. Try it today for a delightful, one-pot chicken dinner that’s both easy and delicious!

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