When the air turns crisp and leaves begin to fall, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm, hearty bowl of chicken stew. This slow cooker chicken stew is a beloved classic that has been enjoyed around countless dinner tables. It’s a recipe that brings together the familiar, homey flavors of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs—all simmered slowly to create a rich, flavorful broth. Not only is it incredibly tasty, but it’s also easy to make, perfect for busy days when you want a filling meal with minimal fuss.
Chicken stew has long been a symbol of family gatherings and chilly autumn evenings, and this recipe takes that tradition up a notch with the magic of the slow cooker. Using a slow cooker allows the ingredients to blend together over hours, enhancing every bit of flavor while filling your home with an inviting aroma. Imagine coming home to a pot of this cozy stew, waiting to be ladled out and enjoyed. It’s as comforting as it is delicious, and it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe
- Hands-Off Cooking: This recipe is perfect for those days when you want a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Just toss in your ingredients, set the slow cooker, and let it do the work.
- Versatile and Nutritious: Packed with protein, vitamins, and fiber, this stew offers a balanced meal all in one bowl. Plus, you can easily add your favorite veggies or make substitutions to suit your tastes.
- Great for Meal Prep: This stew reheats wonderfully, making it ideal for leftovers or meal prepping for the week ahead.
- Cozy Comfort: The slow-cooked chicken and vegetables make for an incredibly cozy dish, perfect for cold-weather days or whenever you crave comfort food.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Chicken thighs or breast – Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts are perfect as they become tender and flavorful during slow cooking.
- Carrots – Chopped into bite-sized pieces, adding natural sweetness and heartiness.
- Celery – Adds a subtle flavor and a bit of crunch.
- Potatoes – Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best, providing creaminess to the stew.
- Onion – Yellow or white onion adds depth to the broth.
- Garlic – Minced fresh garlic infuses the stew with warm, aromatic flavor.
- Chicken broth – Use low-sodium chicken broth for control over the seasoning.
- Fresh thyme and bay leaves – These herbs add an earthy, comforting flavor that’s essential in a traditional stew.
- Salt and pepper – To taste, for seasoning.
- Fresh parsley – A bit of fresh parsley at the end adds brightness and a pop of color.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Start by washing and chopping all your vegetables. Cut the carrots, celery, and potatoes into bite-sized pieces, and chop the onion finely. Mince the garlic to get that fresh aromatic flavor.
- Sear the Chicken (Optional but Recommended): Although it’s optional, searing the chicken beforehand adds a deeper flavor to the stew. In a skillet, heat a little oil and sear the chicken on both sides until golden. This step only takes a few minutes and adds a richer, caramelized flavor to the stew.
- Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker: Place the seared chicken in the bottom of your slow cooker. Layer the chopped vegetables—carrots, celery, potatoes, and onion—on top of the chicken. Then, add the garlic, thyme, and bay leaves for that perfect herby aroma.
- Pour in the Broth and Season: Pour the chicken broth over the ingredients in the slow cooker, making sure everything is submerged. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste. Give everything a gentle stir to combine.
- Cook on Low: Set your slow cooker on low heat and let it cook for 6-8 hours. This long, slow cook time allows the flavors to develop and the chicken to become melt-in-your-mouth tender.
- Finish and Serve: Once the cooking time is up, remove the bay leaves and discard them. Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning if needed. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness before serving.
Helpful Tips
- Choose Your Potatoes Wisely: Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape well and don’t become overly mushy during slow cooking, making them perfect for stew.
- Thickening the Stew: If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of water and stir it into the stew about 30 minutes before it’s done cooking.
- Add Veggies Last: For vegetables that tend to soften quickly, like peas or green beans, add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking so they retain their color and texture.
- Boost the Flavor: Adding a splash of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar just before serving can brighten up the flavors in the stew.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours (on low)
- Total Time: 6-8 hours and 15 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes! While chicken thighs are more flavorful and tend to be more tender in slow-cooked recipes, you can absolutely use chicken breast if you prefer. Just be mindful that chicken breast may cook a bit faster.
What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
Dried thyme works as a substitute for fresh thyme. Use about half the amount if you’re substituting dried for fresh herbs. Bay leaves, however, are best used fresh or in dried form as indicated in the recipe.
Can I make this stew ahead of time?
Absolutely. This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. It’s great for meal prep or planning ahead.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm it in a saucepan on the stove over medium-low heat until heated through, or microwave in 1-minute increments until hot.
If you want to freeze it, let the stew cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.
Related Recipes
If you liked this slow cooker chicken stew, you’ll love these other cozy, satisfying dishes:
Conclusion
This slow cooker chicken stew is more than just a recipe—it’s a comforting hug in a bowl. With its tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and aromatic herbs, this stew is a guaranteed hit that brings warmth to any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, it’s sure to fill you up and keep you cozy. So grab your slow cooker and get ready for some delicious, homemade comfort that’s as easy as it is satisfying. Enjoy!
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Slow Cooker Chicken Stew: A Cozy Classic for Chilly Days
Description
When the air turns crisp and leaves begin to fall, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm, hearty bowl of chicken stew. This slow cooker chicken stew is a beloved classic that has been enjoyed around countless dinner tables. It’s a recipe that brings together the familiar, homey flavors of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs—all simmered slowly to create a rich, flavorful broth. Not only is it incredibly tasty, but it’s also easy to make, perfect for busy days when you want a filling meal with minimal fuss.
Chicken stew has long been a symbol of family gatherings and chilly autumn evenings, and this recipe takes that tradition up a notch with the magic of the slow cooker. Using a slow cooker allows the ingredients to blend together over hours, enhancing every bit of flavor while filling your home with an inviting aroma. Imagine coming home to a pot of this cozy stew, waiting to be ladled out and enjoyed. It’s as comforting as it is delicious, and it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- Chicken thighs or breast – Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts are perfect as they become tender and flavorful during slow cooking.
- Carrots – Chopped into bite-sized pieces, adding natural sweetness and heartiness.
- Celery – Adds a subtle flavor and a bit of crunch.
- Potatoes – Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best, providing creaminess to the stew.
- Onion – Yellow or white onion adds depth to the broth.
- Garlic – Minced fresh garlic infuses the stew with warm, aromatic flavor.
- Chicken broth – Use low-sodium chicken broth for control over the seasoning.
- Fresh thyme and bay leaves – These herbs add an earthy, comforting flavor that’s essential in a traditional stew.
- Salt and pepper – To taste, for seasoning.
- Fresh parsley – A bit of fresh parsley at the end adds brightness and a pop of color.
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Start by washing and chopping all your vegetables. Cut the carrots, celery, and potatoes into bite-sized pieces, and chop the onion finely. Mince the garlic to get that fresh aromatic flavor.
- Sear the Chicken (Optional but Recommended): Although it’s optional, searing the chicken beforehand adds a deeper flavor to the stew. In a skillet, heat a little oil and sear the chicken on both sides until golden. This step only takes a few minutes and adds a richer, caramelized flavor to the stew.
- Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker: Place the seared chicken in the bottom of your slow cooker. Layer the chopped vegetables—carrots, celery, potatoes, and onion—on top of the chicken. Then, add the garlic, thyme, and bay leaves for that perfect herby aroma.
- Pour in the Broth and Season: Pour the chicken broth over the ingredients in the slow cooker, making sure everything is submerged. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste. Give everything a gentle stir to combine.
- Cook on Low: Set your slow cooker on low heat and let it cook for 6-8 hours. This long, slow cook time allows the flavors to develop and the chicken to become melt-in-your-mouth tender.
- Finish and Serve: Once the cooking time is up, remove the bay leaves and discard them. Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning if needed. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness before serving.