Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Warm, comforting, and packed with flavor, this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is the perfect meal for a cozy night in.
Tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a rich, savory broth come together effortlessly in the slow cooker, making this dish both delicious and convenient.
With minimal prep and a hands-off cooking process, it’s an ideal recipe for busy days when you want a satisfying homemade meal without the hassle. Serve it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete, comforting dinner the whole family will love!
Ingredients :
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 1/2 pounds chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces.
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary.
1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to season
6 cloves garlic, minced
1 onion, diced.
3 carrots, peeled and sliced
2 large potatoes, cut into 1/2-inch cubes (1 pound).
3 cups chicken broth
1 bay leaf
1/2 cup milk.
1 cup green peas, frozen
Black pepper, to season.
Instructions for Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Prepare the Ingredients
Cut the chicken thighs into 1-inch pieces.
In a bowl, toss the chicken with flour, thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
Sauté for Extra Flavor (Optional but Recommended)
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly golden (don’t cook through).
Transfer the chicken to the slow cooker.
Assemble the Stew in the Slow Cooker
Add garlic, onion, carrots, and potatoes to the slow cooker.
Pour in the chicken broth, then add the bay leaf.
Stir to combine all ingredients.
Cook the Stew
Cover and cook on:
Low for 6-7 hours (for tender, slow-cooked flavors).
High for 3-4 hours (if short on time).
Final Touches
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the milk and frozen peas.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
Serve and Enjoy
Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Ladle into bowls and enjoy with crusty bread or a side salad.
This stew is rich, hearty, and perfect for a comforting meal!
Variations & Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Variations
Protein Options:
Swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts for a leaner option.
Try beef chunks for a heartier, beef stew variation.
Use chickpeas or white beans for a vegetarian alternative (replace chicken broth with vegetable broth).
Vegetable Variations:
Add celery, parsnips, or mushrooms for extra depth of flavor.
Stir in kale or spinach at the end for a nutritional boost.
Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a touch of sweetness.
Creamier Stew:
Replace the milk with heavy cream or coconut milk for a richer texture.
Mash some of the potatoes after cooking to naturally thicken the broth.
Flavor Enhancements:
Add a splash of white wine or Worcestershire sauce for more depth.
Stir in a tablespoon of tomato paste for a subtle umami boost.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley or thyme before serving for added freshness.
Tips for the Best Chicken Stew
Sear the Chicken First: Browning the chicken in olive oil before adding it to the slow cooker enhances the flavor.
Layer Ingredients Properly: Place root vegetables at the bottom since they take longer to cook, with chicken on top.
Avoid Overcooking the Peas: Add frozen peas in the last 15 minutes of cooking to keep them vibrant and tender.
Thicken the Broth: If the stew is too thin, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it in during the last 30 minutes.
This stew is delicious as-is but can be easily customized to suit different tastes. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and ingredients!
How to Store Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Refrigeration (3-4 Days)
Allow the stew to cool completely before storing.
Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals, adding a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much.
Freezing (Up to 3 Months)
Let the stew cool completely.
Store in freezer-safe containers or zip-top freezer bags (lay bags flat for easy stacking).
Freeze for up to 3 months.
To reheat: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm on the stovetop over medium heat or in a slow cooker on low.
Tips for Best Storage
Avoid freezing if using milk or cream, as dairy can separate upon thawing. Instead, add milk when reheating.
Label containers with the date to keep track of freshness.
If the stew thickens too much when reheating, add a bit of broth or water to restore consistency.
Enjoy your delicious homemade stew even on busy days with these simple storage tips!
How to Store Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Refrigeration (3-4 Days)
Allow the stew to cool completely before storing.
Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals, adding a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much.
Freezing (Up to 3 Months)
Let the stew cool completely.
Store in freezer-safe containers or zip-top freezer bags (lay bags flat for easy stacking).
Freeze for up to 3 months.
To reheat: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm on the stovetop over medium heat or in a slow cooker on low.
Tips for Best Storage
Avoid freezing if using milk or cream, as dairy can separate upon thawing. Instead, add milk when reheating.
Label containers with the date to keep track of freshness.
If the stew thickens too much when reheating, add a bit of broth or water to restore consistency.
Enjoy your delicious homemade stew even on busy days with these simple storage tips!