This easy slow cooker chicken stew is perfect for chilly days, bringing together tender chicken, hearty veggies, and a flavorful broth. Just toss everything in and let it do its magic!
The best part? It fills your home with a wonderful smell while you relax. I love to enjoy it with a slice of warm bread—you can’t go wrong! 🍞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using boneless, skinless thighs since they stay juicy and tender even after long cooking. If you prefer, chicken breasts can be used, but they might dry out more easily.
Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness and crunch. If you’re in a pinch, baby carrots are a great alternative. Just toss them in whole!
Potatoes: I prefer Yukon gold for their creamy texture. Russets work fine too. For a lower-carb option, try substituting with cauliflower florets.
Broth: Homemade broth is the best for rich flavors, but store-bought works well. If you want a lighter version, you can use vegetable broth instead.
Herbs: Dried thyme and rosemary give depth. If fresh herbs are available, they offer even better flavor, so feel free to use them! Just double the amount.
How Do You Get the Most Flavor from the Chicken in Your Stew?
Browning the chicken pieces before adding them to the slow cooker enhances the flavor significantly. This step isn’t mandatory, but it adds a nice richness. Here’s how:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chicken pieces and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer to the slow cooker and continue with the recipe.
This step boosts the savory taste of your stew and gives it color, making a noticeable difference in the end result!
Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stew:
- 1.5 lbs (700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
- 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups (1 liter) chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious slow cooker chicken stew takes about 15 minutes of prep time. You’ll then let it cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for about 3-4 hours. It’s a simple, hands-off recipe that will fill your home with warmth and delicious aromas!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Browning the Chicken (Optional):
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken chunks and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are lightly browned. This step isn’t necessary, but it adds extra flavor!
2. Assemble in the Slow Cooker:
Transfer the browned chicken into your slow cooker. Then, add the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, sliced celery, chopped onion, and minced garlic.
3. Add the Liquid and Seasonings:
Pour in the chicken broth, making sure everything is covered. Stir in the dried thyme, dried rosemary, bay leaf, and a little salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cooking Time:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender, and the vegetables should be cooked through by the end of the cooking time.
5. Adding Peas:
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the frozen peas. They don’t need long to cook and will add a lovely color to your stew!
6. Thicken the Stew (Optional):
If you’d like a thicker stew, mix the flour with a small amount of cold water to make a slurry, then stir it into the stew. Let it cook for a few more minutes until thickened to your liking.
7. Final Touches:
Remove the bay leaf before serving. Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning if needed. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a beautiful finish.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the hearty chicken stew warm, preferably with a piece of crusty bread for dipping. Enjoy your cozy meal!
This stew is perfect for and will surely become a family favorite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to add about an extra hour to your cooking time on high or an additional 2 hours on low. No need to thaw it beforehand—just toss it straight into the slow cooker.
What Can I Substitute for Chicken Thighs?
If you prefer, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead. Keep in mind they may cook faster and could dry out more easily, so monitor them closely toward the end of the cooking time.
Can I Make This Stew Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients the night before and store them separately in the fridge. In the morning, just toss everything into the slow cooker and set it to cook. It’s a great way to have a meal ready when you get home!
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken Stew?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over low heat until heated through, adding a splash of broth if it’s too thick. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months!
