A hearty Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is the perfect meal for a chilly evening. This recipe not only brings comfort but also offers convenience, as it allows you to prepare a delicious dinner with minimal effort. With tender chicken and an array of vegetables simmered to perfection, this stew is ideal for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Its creamy texture comes without the cream, making it a unique twist on classic chicken stew.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: With minimal chopping and no complicated techniques, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of herbs and fresh vegetables creates a rich flavor profile that the whole family will enjoy.
- Versatile Meal: This stew can be served on its own or with crusty bread, making it adaptable for any occasion.
- Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with protein from chicken and nutrients from vegetables, it’s a wholesome choice for dinner.
- Leftover Friendly: It stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it great for meal prep or quick lunches later in the week.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into your cooking adventure, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and ensure your Slow Cooker Chicken Stew turns out perfectly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Large skillet
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Wooden spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: This is the star of the show! It allows for low-and-slow cooking, ensuring tender meat and flavorful broth without constant supervision.
- Large skillet: Perfect for searing the chicken before transferring it to the slow cooker, adding depth to the overall flavor.
- Cutting board & Sharp knife: These are essential for preparing your ingredients quickly and safely.
Ingredients
A creamy chicken stew without the cream, this hearty slow cooker chicken stew recipe is perfect for a cold day.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 1/2 pounds chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
– 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to season
– 6 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 large potatoes, cut into ½-inch cubes (1 pound)
– 3 cups chicken broth
– 1 bay leaf
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 cup green peas, frozen
– Black pepper, to season
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Place chicken on a cutting board, dice into 1-inch pieces, and season generously with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 4–5 minutes until browned on all sides. You don’t need to cook it completely; just sear it to lock in flavors.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker
Once browned, transfer the chicken to the slow cooker. Sprinkle in flour, thyme, rosemary, and salt. Stir until the chicken is well coated with flour and herbs.
Step 4: Add Vegetables and Broth
Add minced garlic, diced onion, sliced carrots, and cubed potatoes to the slow cooker. Stir everything together before pouring in chicken broth. Finally, add a bay leaf.
Step 5: Cook Low and Slow
Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for about 7–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
Step 6: Finish with Peas and Milk
When cooking time is up, add frozen peas and milk. Stir well and cook on high for an additional 10–15 minutes until peas are warmed through.
Step 7: Adjust Seasoning
Taste your stew after cooking. Adjust salt and pepper as needed before serving.
Step 8: Serve or Store
Serve hot! Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days or frozen for up to three months. Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Stew!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
This hearty slow cooker chicken stew is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking for comfort food or a light pairing, here are some great serving suggestions.
Serve with Fresh Bread
- Crusty Baguette: A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the rich stew.
- Garlic Bread: The buttery garlic flavor complements the savory notes of the chicken stew.
Add a Side Salad
- Mixed Greens: A simple salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette balances the flavors of the stew.
- Caesar Salad: For a more substantial option, try a classic Caesar salad to add some crunch.
Pair with Rice or Grains
- White Rice: Serving the stew over fluffy white rice helps absorb the flavorful broth.
- Quinoa: This protein-packed grain adds a nutty flavor and texture to your meal.
Top with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Parsley: Sprinkling fresh parsley on top enhances both the presentation and flavor.
- Thyme Sprigs: A few fresh thyme sprigs can elevate the dish with an aromatic touch.
How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
To ensure your slow cooker chicken stew turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Selecting fresh chicken and vegetables will enhance the overall flavor of your stew.
- Sear the Chicken First: Browning the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker adds depth and richness.
- Adjust Seasoning Mid-Cook: Taste your stew halfway through cooking; this allows you to adjust salt and spices as needed.
- Thicken with Flour or Cornstarch: If your stew is too thin at the end, mix flour or cornstarch with water and stir it in to thicken.
- Let it Rest Before Serving: Allowing the stew to sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking helps meld flavors together.
- Store Properly for Leftovers: Cool completely before storing in an airtight container to keep it fresh for up to 5 days.
Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Complement your slow cooker chicken stew with these delightful side dishes. Each option enhances your meal experience while keeping things simple.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting base for the savory stew.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition, making them a perfect accompaniment.
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs nicely with the rich flavors of chicken stew and is easy to prepare.
- Steamed Broccoli: A light side like steamed broccoli adds freshness and balances out the heaviness of the stew.
- Rice Pilaf: Flavored rice pilaf can bring an extra layer of taste that complements your dish beautifully.
- Oven-Baked Potatoes: Crisp-skinned baked potatoes offer a hearty option that can be topped with butter or sour cream for extra flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is a simple dish, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Skipping the Searing: Not browning the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker can lead to a less flavorful dish. Take the time to sear the chicken in olive oil for better depth of flavor.
- Overcooking Vegetables: Adding delicate vegetables like peas too early can result in mush. Wait until the last 10-15 minutes of cooking to add them for the best texture.
- Ignoring Seasoning: Under-seasoning your dish will make it bland. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper levels before serving.
- Using Low-Quality Broth: A poor-quality broth can make or break your stew’s flavor. Opt for a good quality chicken broth or homemade version for richness.
- Not Using Enough Liquid: Insufficient liquid can lead to dry chicken and thick stew. Make sure to follow the ingredient measurements closely, especially with broth.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Allow the stew to cool completely before sealing it in a container.
Freezing Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
- Freeze in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months.
- Leave space at the top of containers as liquids expand when frozen.
Reheating Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat gently over medium-low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Slow Cooker Chicken Stew.
How long does Slow Cooker Chicken Stew take to cook?
The cooking time depends on your slow cooker settings; typically, it takes about 7-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high.
Can I customize my Slow Cooker Chicken Stew?
Absolutely! You can add different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or substitute chicken thighs with breasts if you prefer.
What should I serve with Slow Cooker Chicken Stew?
This stew pairs beautifully with crusty bread, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes! You can replace the chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms and chickpeas while using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Final Thoughts
Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is not only comforting but also versatile. Its rich flavors and creamy texture without cream make it perfect for any day. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or herbs for a personal touch. Give this recipe a try next time you need a warm meal!
Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Enjoy the warmth and comfort of a delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Stew, perfect for chilly evenings. This hearty dish combines tender chicken with a medley of fresh vegetables, simmered to perfection in a rich, creamy broth—without the cream! Ideal for weeknight dinners or family gatherings, this recipe requires minimal prep time and allows you to enjoy the flavors as they meld together throughout the day. With nutritious ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a wholesome choice that will satisfy everyone at the table.
- Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 1/2 pounds chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to season
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 2 large potatoes, cut into ½-inch cubes (1 pound)
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup green peas, frozen
- Black pepper, to season
Instructions
- Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sear the chicken until browned (4–5 minutes).
- Transfer chicken to slow cooker; sprinkle with flour, thyme, rosemary, and salt; stir to coat.
- Add garlic, onion, carrots, potatoes, and chicken broth; mix well.
- Place bay leaf on top and cover; cook on low for 7–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
- Stir in frozen peas and milk in the last 10–15 minutes of cooking until warmed through.
- Adjust seasoning before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 hours (low)
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Feel free to customize with additional vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini. For thickening options, mix flour or cornstarch with water if needed.