This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is a warm hug on a chilly day! Packed with tender chicken, veggies, and tasty spices, it simmers all day while you relax.
The best part? You just toss everything in the pot and let it do its magic! I love serving this stew with some crusty bread for dipping—it’s pure comfort! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their rich flavor and tenderness. However, you can easily use chicken breasts if you prefer. Just remember, thighs add more moisture!
Vegetables: This stew is flexible! Carrots, potatoes, and celery work wonderfully, but feel free to add peas, green beans, or even sweet potatoes. If you don’t have fresh, frozen veggies can work, too—just toss them in during the last hour of cooking.
Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth is great to control saltiness. You can substitute with vegetable broth for a lighter option or homemade broth if you have it! Using water will dilute flavor, so avoid that if you can.
Herbs: Dried thyme and rosemary are classic for this stew, but fresh herbs can add a brighter flavor. Use three times the amount of fresh herbs if you have them! If you’re out, Italian seasoning can be a good substitute.
How Do I Get the Stew to Thicken?
Thickening the stew can be super simple! If you prefer a thicker consistency, here’s what to do:
- About 30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, whip up a slurry by mixing 2 tablespoons of flour with a bit of cold water in a small bowl until smooth.
- Slowly stir the slurry into the stew. This will help thicken the broth nicely!
- For a creamy touch, stir in some heavy cream or milk after thickening, then heat through.
Just make sure to stir well and let it sit for a bit; the heat from the stew will help it thicken up further. Now you’re ready for a cozy dinner! 😊
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 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or milk (for creaminess)
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This yummy chicken stew takes about 15-20 minutes to get everything prepped and into the slow cooker. Cooking time will be either 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high, so plan for that cozy wait while it simmers its way to deliciousness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant. This step adds a lovely flavor base to our stew.
2. Prepare the Slow Cooker:
Dump the chicken chunks into your slow cooker, then add the sautéed onions and garlic right on top. This is where the magic starts!
3. Add the Veggies:
Next, toss in the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, and sliced celery. Get ready for a colorful mix of healthy goodness!
4. Pour in the Broth:
Now, it’s time to pour in the chicken broth! Make sure every ingredient is covered. Then sprinkle in the dried thyme, rosemary, paprika, and a dash of salt and pepper. If you want, you can add a bay leaf for extra flavor.
5. Let It Cook:
Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is tender and the veggies are cooked through. Ah, the smell will be amazing!
6. Thicken the Stew (Optional):
About 30 minutes before you plan to serve, if you like a thicker stew, mix 2 tablespoons of flour with a small amount of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the slow cooker to help thicken the broth.
7. Creamy Finish (Optional):
For a creamy touch, you can stir in some heavy cream or milk with about 15 minutes left in the cooking time, just to warm it through. It makes the stew feel all cozy and comforting!
8. Final Touches:
Before serving, don’t forget to take out the bay leaf! Give everything a taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the stew hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley. It pairs perfectly with crusty bread or over some rice. Enjoy your cozy dinner! 😊
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Stew?
Yes, you can! Just ensure to thaw the chicken completely before adding it to the slow cooker. It’s best to thaw in the refrigerator overnight or in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for a quick method.
How to Store Leftover Chicken Stew?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Vegetables?
If you’re short on fresh veggies, frozen vegetables work great! Just add them during the last hour of cooking to prevent mushiness. You can also get creative and add whatever veggies you have on hand, like peas or green beans!
Can I Make This Stew in a Regular Pot Instead of a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! You can make this stew on the stovetop. Sauté your veggies, add the chicken and broth, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
