Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe

This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe is pure comfort in a bowl, brimming with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a savory, herby broth that comes together almost effortlessly. The slow cooker works its magic, transforming basic pantry staples into a cozy meal that warms you from the inside out. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family on a busy weeknight or wanting a hearty Sunday supper with leftovers to spare, you’ll come back to this classic again and again.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this dish is in its simplicity—every ingredient has a specific role in building luscious layers of flavor, color, and wholesomeness. These staples come together in perfect harmony, making the Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe satisfying and reliable every time.

• Chicken thighs: These provide deep, rich flavor and stay succulent after hours of slow cooking—try boneless, skinless for easy prep.
• Yukon Gold potatoes: Creamy and buttery, these hold their shape without turning mushy, soaking up every drop of savory broth.
• Carrots: Their natural sweetness balances the savoriness, and they add beautiful color and tender texture.
• Celery: Provides an aromatic base with gentle crunch, boosting both flavor and freshness.
• Onion: The backbone of any great stew, it melts down for sweetness and depth.
• Garlic: Just a few cloves lift the entire stew with their earthy perfume.
• Chicken broth: The essential liquid foundation, creating a flavorful, soul-soothing sauce as it cooks.
• Tomato paste: Adds a touch of tang and builds a rich, hearty color—you only need a couple tablespoons.
• Frozen peas: Tossed in at the end, they add pop and brightness to every bite.
• Bay leaf & fresh thyme: These herbs bring subtle fragrance and make your kitchen smell incredible while the stew simmers.
• Salt & freshly ground black pepper: Enhance all the other flavors—don’t forget to taste and adjust at the end.
• Olive oil: A quick sear in oil can help deepen flavors from the start—completely optional, but a nice touch if you have the time.

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Slice the carrots and celery, dice the onion, mince the garlic, and cut potatoes into hearty chunks for even cooking. Trim any excess fat from the chicken and cut into large bite-sized pieces. The chopping may feel like a little bit of work, but it’s all hands-off from here!

Step 2: Optional Sear for Extra Flavor

If you have a few extra minutes, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken pieces for just 2-3 minutes per side until they develop some golden color. This step is optional, but it can add another level of richness to your Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe.

Step 3: Layer Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

Add the potatoes, carrots, celery, and onion to the bottom of your slow cooker. Layer the seared or raw chicken pieces over the vegetables, then sprinkle on the garlic. Dollop the tomato paste, tuck in the bay leaf and thyme, and season generously with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Add Broth and Set the Timer

Pour chicken broth evenly over the top, making sure everything is lightly submerged but not soupy. Stir gently, if you’d like, but layering the ingredients ensures the chicken juices drip down and flavor the vegetables as they cook. Cover and set the slow cooker to low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Step 5: Stir in Peas and Finish Cooking

About 20-30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, fish out the bay leaf and thyme stems. Stir in the frozen peas and cover again—the peas will bring color, a subtle pop of sweetness, and won’t get mushy since they’re cooked right at the end.

Step 6: Taste and Adjust

Right before serving, taste the stew and add more salt or pepper if needed. The potatoes should be fork-tender and the chicken incredibly juicy. The Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe is now ready to ladle into bowls and enjoy!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle bowls with fresh chopped parsley, a crack of black pepper, or even a swirl of olive oil. A lemon wedge on the side works magic for those who love a little brightness—it lifts the flavors of the hearty stew without overpowering.

Side Dishes

Serve this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe alongside crusty bread, dinner rolls, or fluffy mashed potatoes to soak up every last spoonful of the savory sauce. A simple green salad with a sharp vinaigrette is a lovely, refreshing contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the stew in hollowed-out sourdough bread bowls for a rustic twist, or in small mugs as a cozy appetizer. Ladle leftovers over cooked brown rice or egg noodles for a completely different but equally satisfying meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the stew cool a bit before transferring it to airtight containers. Leftovers will keep beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days—the flavors get even better as they mingle overnight, making weekday lunches a treat!

Freezing

The Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe freezes well, making it a fantastic meal prep option. Simply portion into single-serve containers (leaving a little space for expansion), label, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.

Reheating

Reheat the stew gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of broth or water if it’s become too thick. Taste and season as needed—a squeeze of lemon or a handful of fresh herbs can wake up those slow-cooked flavors instantly.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs in this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe?

Absolutely! Breasts work if you prefer leaner meat, but be careful not to overcook, as they can become a bit drier than thighs. Cut them into large chunks and check for doneness towards the end of cooking time.

Can I add other vegetables?

Feel free to get creative! Parsnips, sweet potatoes, green beans, or bell peppers are delicious additions, just keep the pieces large so they hold up in the slow cooker.

How do I thicken the stew if it’s too brothy?

If you like a thicker stew, mix a spoonful of cornstarch with a splash of cold water and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 20 minutes. Alternatively, mash a couple of cooked potato cubes right into the broth to add body naturally.

Is this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as written. Just double-check your chicken broth and any seasonings if you’re serving someone with a gluten allergy.

Can I prepare this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe the night before?

Definitely. You can chop all the vegetables, trim the chicken, and layer everything in the insert the night before. Cover and refrigerate, then set it in the slow cooker and add broth in the morning.

Final Thoughts

Nothing beats a homemade meal bubbling away while you go about your day, and this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe delivers the kind of comfort and flavor that brings everyone to the table. Give it a try—I promise your house will smell amazing and your taste buds will thank you!

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