If you want a warm, comforting meal that practically makes itself, slow cooker chicken stew is a great choice. It combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and simple herbs into a creamy, flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare. Using a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, giving you more time for other things while dinner cooks.
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This stew is perfect for busy days when you need something healthy and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables and seasonings, making it a meal everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re meal prepping or just want a cozy dinner, this recipe fits the bill.
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How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
To make a tasty slow cooker chicken stew, you’ll need the right ingredients, clear instructions for cooking, and the proper tools. Each part helps you create a flavorful and easy meal that cooks over several hours with little effort.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ to 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
- 4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas (add at the end)
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear the chicken pieces until lightly browned, then transfer them to the slow cooker. Add carrots, potatoes, celery, onion, garlic, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine.
Cover and cook on low for 7–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken and vegetables are tender. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the peas. If you prefer a thicker stew, whisk the flour with a little water to make a slurry and stir it in, letting it cook until thickened. Remove bay leaves before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.
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Recommended Equipment
You’ll need a slow cooker with at least a 4-quart capacity. This size fits enough ingredients for a family meal and helps everything cook evenly.
A large cutting board and a sharp knife will make chopping vegetables quick and safe.
Use a large skillet to brown the chicken before cooking. It’s not required but improves the stew’s flavor.
A wooden spoon or heat-safe spatula helps you stir ingredients without scratching your slow cooker.
Finally, a measuring cup and measuring spoons ensure you get the right amounts of broth and seasonings.
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Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
To make your chicken stew taste its best, focus on boosting the fl
avor and choosing the right sides. Simple adjustments can bring out the rich taste of your stew. Pairing it with complementary dishes can also make your meal feel complete and satisfying.
Flavor Enhancement Ideas
Start by using bone-in, skinless chicken thighs. They stay juicy and add more flavor than chicken breasts. Brown the chicken in a pan before adding it to your slow cooker to build a richer taste.
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Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves early in cooking. These release their flavor slowly and deeply. Also, don’t forget to season well with salt and pepper during and after cooking.
For extra depth, try adding a splash of white wine, apple cider vinegar, or soy sauce. These acids balance the stew’s richness. You can also include garlic and onions to layer the flavors.
Finally, add vegetables like carrots, celery, and potatoes in chunks for texture. Add quick-cooking veggies such as green beans near the end to keep them firm.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your slow cooker chicken stew with crusty bread or warm dinner rolls to soak up the broth. Mashed potatoes or cooked rice also work well if you want a heartier meal.
A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables give your meal a bright contrast. Simple steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach add color and nutrition.
Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh parsley or chopped green onions on top. They add a pop of color and fresh flavor before serving.
If you want to keep leftovers interesting, turn the stew into a pot pie or mix it with pasta for a new dinner option.
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