This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is a cozy meal that’s perfect for busy nights! Just toss in chicken, veggies, and a few spices, then let your slow cooker do the work.
I love how it makes my house smell amazing while cooking! Serve it with some crusty bread, and you’ve got a warm, comforting dinner ready with minimal effort.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I prefer boneless, skinless chicken thighs, as they remain juicy during cooking. However, you can use chicken breasts if you prefer lean meat. Rotisserie chicken works too; just add it in the last 30 minutes.
Vegetables: While carrots and potatoes are classic choices, feel free to swap in other veggies like green beans or peas. Frozen vegetables are a great time-saver too!
Broth: Homemade chicken broth adds flavor, but store-bought works just fine. If you need a low-sodium option, look for those varieties to better control the salt level in your stew.
Herbs: Thyme and rosemary add depth, but if you don’t have them, Italian seasoning is a good substitute. Use fresh herbs if you have them—they really brighten up the dish!
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Stew Has Lots of Flavor?
Flavor is key! Here are some tips to ensure your stew tastes great:
- Season your chicken with salt and pepper before adding it to the slow cooker.
- Don’t skip the garlic and onion; they enhance the base flavors.
- Let the stew cook long enough. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together.
- If you like a thicker stew, use the optional flour after a few hours of cooking.
With these tips and ingredients, your stew will be flavorful and satisfying. Enjoy your cozy meal!
Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stew:
- 2 lbs (900 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
- 4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 stalks celery, sliced
- 4 cups (960 ml) chicken broth
- 1 cup (240 ml) water
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
For Garnish:
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious chicken stew takes about 15 minutes of prep time. You’ll want to let it cook in your slow cooker for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Perfect for a busy day—you can set it and forget it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Ingredients:
Start by cutting your chicken into chunks and prepping the vegetables: slice the carrots, dice the potatoes, chop the onion, mince the garlic, and slice the celery. Having everything ready makes the cooking process smooth and quick!
2. Layer the Chicken and Veggies:
Place the chicken chunks directly at the bottom of your slow cooker. Then, layer the carrots, potatoes, onion, garlic, and celery right on top of the chicken. It’s all about creating those tasty layers!
3. Add Your Liquids and Seasonings:
Pour in the chicken broth and water, making sure everything is mostly covered. Then, sprinkle the thyme, rosemary, and a good amount of salt and pepper on top. Don’t forget the bay leaf—it adds great flavor!
4. Cook the Stew:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Set it on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the veggies are tender.
5. Thicken the Stew (Optional):
If you prefer a thicker stew, about 30 minutes before it’s done, mix the flour with a small amount of cold water to form a slurry. Stir this into the stew and cover it again to let it thicken up nicely.
6. Final Touches:
Once done, take out the bay leaf. Taste your stew and adjust the salt and pepper if needed. It should be flavorful and comforting!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your warm stew with chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Serve it hot with crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal. Enjoy this comforting dinner made with love!
This stew is a great way to enjoy a hearty meal with minimal fuss—perfect for busy nights!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to ensure it’s completely thawed before cooking for even cooking. You can thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the cold-water method. Just place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water until thawed.
How Can I Make This Stew Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, swap the chicken for chickpeas or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add in more vegetables like bell peppers or squash for extra nutrition and flavor!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prep all the ingredients the night before and store them in the fridge. In the morning, just add them to the slow cooker and let it cook while you’re busy with your day. The flavors will even deepen overnight!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave. If the stew seems a bit thick after refrigerating, adding a splash of water or broth can help restore its consistency.
