This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is warm and hearty, perfect for cozy dinners. Just toss in chicken, veggies, and some seasonings, then let it cook all day!
There’s something magical about coming home to the smell of stew bubbling away. I love serving it with crusty bread—it’s like a warm hug on a chilly day! 🥰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs add rich flavor and stay tender. If you prefer chicken breasts, they work too, but can dry out a bit. You can even use diced rotisserie chicken to save time—just add it in the last hour of cooking.
Vegetables: Carrots, celery, and potatoes are classics here, but feel free to mix it up! Sweet potatoes or parsnips can add a nice twist, and you could add bell peppers for more color. Frozen mixed vegetables can also work in a pinch.
Seasonings: Thyme and rosemary pair beautifully, but if you have Italian seasoning or herbs de Provence on hand, those can also add great flavor. Fresh herbs are lovely if you have them, just add them at the end for freshness.
Chicken Broth: Homemade broth is fantastic if you have some, but store-bought works well too. For a lighter version, use low-sodium broth. If you’re looking for a swap, vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian option.
How Do I Make Sure My Stew Gets Thick and Creamy?
Thickening your stew can make it feel heartier and more satisfying. Here are a few tips to help you achieve that perfect consistency:
- Start by sautéing the onions and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker. This enhances their flavor and helps with texture.
- If you want a thicker stew, mix a couple of tablespoons of flour with cold water to create a slurry. Stir this in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Another option is to mash some of the potatoes against the side of the slow cooker before serving. This will help thicken the stew naturally.
Remember, letting it cook longer also helps thicken the mixture as it reduces and develops a deeper flavor!
Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew for Comfort Meals
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 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Cooking:
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy chicken stew recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, followed by 6-7 hours of slow cooking on low or 3-4 hours on high. You can set it and forget it while your home fills with comforting aromas, making it perfect for busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
Start by heating the olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant. This step helps to develop more flavor in your stew!
2. Assemble the Stew Ingredients:
In your slow cooker, place the chunks of chicken. Add in the sautéed onion and garlic, along with the carrots, celery, diced potatoes, dried thyme, dried rosemary, bay leaves, and some salt and pepper. Make sure everything is nicely mixed together.
3. Add the Chicken Broth:
Pour the chicken broth over the mixture, ensuring everything is submerged. This will help all the flavors meld beautifully during cooking.
4. Cook the Stew:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
5. Add Peas Before Serving:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, stir in the frozen peas. This will warm them up quickly and add a pop of color to your stew.
6. Thicken the Stew (Optional):
If you’d like a thicker consistency, mix the flour with a little cold water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the stew and cover it for another 20-30 minutes. This will give your stew a heartier texture.
7. Finish and Season:
Before serving, remember to remove the bay leaves. Taste your stew and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh parsley for a bright finish. This stew goes wonderfully with crusty bread or can be served over rice. Enjoy every warm, comforting bite!
FAQ – Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking. If you’re in a hurry, you can add the frozen chicken directly into the slow cooker; just make sure to extend the cooking time by about an hour.
Can I Make This Stew Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stew in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. The flavors may deepen with time, making it even tastier!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the stew for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stove.
What Can I Substitute for Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth, you can use vegetable broth as a great alternative, especially if you’re looking for a lighter or vegetarian option. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning since vegetable broth can sometimes be less salty than chicken broth.
