This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is perfect for cozy nights! It’s packed with tender chicken, hearty veggies, and yummy spices that warm you up from the inside.
Cooking it is a breeze—just toss everything in and let it do its thing. I love coming home to the delicious smell! It’s like a big hug in a bowl. 🥣
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Chicken thighs are great for this stew because they stay moist and flavorful after slow cooking. If you prefer, you can use chicken breasts, but keep an eye on the cooking time, as they can dry out more easily.
Veggies: Carrots, celery, and potatoes are classic choices. However, feel free to swap in other root vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes for a different twist!
Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth keeps this stew healthier. You can also use homemade broth or vegetable broth for a lighter option if you’re vegetarian.
Herbs: Thyme and rosemary are perfect for flavoring. If you don’t have these exact herbs, Italian seasoning or Herbes de Provence can work well instead.
Flour: Using flour to thicken the stew is optional. You can skip it for a brothier stew or use cornstarch mixed with water as a gluten-free option.
How Do I Get My Chicken and Veggies Perfectly Cooked?
Getting everything perfectly cooked is key. Start by browning the chicken in a skillet. This adds extra flavor that makes your stew really pop!
- Heat olive oil over medium-high heat and brown chicken pieces for about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Place the chicken in the crockpot, then add your chopped veggies on top.
- Make sure to cover and cook on low for a longer time (6-8 hours) to enhance the flavors, or high for a quicker cook (3-4 hours).
- Adding frozen peas near the end keeps them bright and vibrant while remaining tender.
Don’t forget to remove the bay leaf before serving! A sprinkle of fresh parsley gives a nice touch of color, too. Enjoy your cozy stew!
Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
- 4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen peas
Spices and Seasonings:
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Other Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time and then simmers in the slow cooker for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. It’s perfect for starting in the morning and coming home to a warm, cozy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Chicken:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and brown them on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step is optional, but it adds a lot of flavors to your stew!
2. Assemble in the Slow Cooker:
Transfer the browned chicken to the bottom of your slow cooker. Add the sliced carrots, celery, chopped onion, minced garlic, and cubed potatoes right on top of the chicken.
3. Season Your Stew:
Sprinkle the dried thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper over your ingredients. Give it a gentle stir to combine everything a bit.
4. Add the Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaf. Make sure all the ingredients are submerged in the broth for even cooking!
5. Let it Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
6. Stir in the Peas:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, stir in the frozen peas. They will add a lovely pop of color and sweetness!
7. (Optional) Thicken the Stew:
If you want a thicker stew, mix the flour with a little cold water to form a slurry. Stir this into the stew and let it cook for an additional 15-30 minutes.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, remember to remove the bay leaf. Garnish your stew with fresh chopped parsley for a nice touch. Serve warm with crusty bread or over rice to soak up all the delicious flavors!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s essential to thaw it first to ensure even cooking. Thaw the chicken overnight in the fridge or quickly in a sealed bag submerged in cold water before adding it to the slow cooker.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
You can customize your stew by adding other vegetables like bell peppers, green beans, or sweet potatoes. Just make sure to chop them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This stew also freezes well! Just let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container—thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Can I Make This Stew Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare all the ingredients the night before, place them in the slow cooker, and store it in the fridge. In the morning, just add the broth and start cooking! This way, it’s ready when you come home in the evening.
