Best 7 Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe For Comfort

As the temperature drops, nothing satisfies the soul quite like a warm, hearty meal that fills your home with delicious aromas. The Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe we’re sharing today combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs in a rich, flavorful broth. This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a nutritious, homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With minimal prep time and your trusty slow cooker doing most of the work, you’ll have a comforting dinner ready when you need it most.

Ingredients & Kitchen Tools for Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe

For the stew:
– 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 large yellow onion, diced
– 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 3 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 pound baby potatoes, halved
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Seasonings:
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
– 2 bay leaves
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For thickening:
– 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 3 tablespoons cold water

Kitchen tools:
– 6-quart slow cooker
– Cutting board
– Chef’s knife
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Wooden spoon
– Small bowl for mixing flour slurry

Prep & Cooking Time for a Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe Dish

– Prep time: 20 minutes
– Cooking time: 4 hours on high or 7-8 hours on low
– Total time: 4 hours 20 minutes (high setting) or 8 hours 20 minutes (low setting)
– Servings: 6

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe Easily

1. Prep the ingredients: Cut chicken thighs into 1-inch pieces. Chop all vegetables according to the ingredient list.

2. Layer the ingredients: Place the chicken pieces at the bottom of your slow cooker. Add the onions, carrots, celery, potatoes, and garlic on top.

3. Add liquids and seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth. Add tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper.

4. Cook the stew: Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until chicken is tender and vegetables are cooked through.

5. Add the peas: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the frozen peas.

6. Thicken the stew: In a small bowl, whisk together flour and cold water until smooth. Stir this mixture into the Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe and cook uncovered for an additional 30 minutes until thickened. This final step transforms your Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew into a rich, hearty meal.

7. Remove bay leaves: Before serving, find and remove the bay leaves.

8. Serve warm: Ladle into bowls and serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Nutritional Benefits of This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe Recipe

This nutrient-packed stew offers numerous health benefits:
– High-quality protein from chicken thighs supports muscle maintenance
– Complex carbohydrates from potatoes provide sustained energy
– Fiber-rich vegetables aid digestion
– Vitamins A, C, and K from carrots, celery, and peas boost immunity
– Low-sodium broth helps maintain healthy blood pressure
– Approximately 350 calories per serving
– 28g protein, 30g carbohydrates, 12g fat per serving

Variations, Substitutions & Cooking Tips for Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe Lovers

– Protein options: Substitute chicken breast for a leaner option, or try turkey, beef, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian version
– Vegetable variations: Add mushrooms, sweet potatoes, parsnips, or bell peppers
– Herb alternatives: Fresh herbs can be used instead of dried (use three times the amount)
– Dairy addition: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream at the end for a richer stew
– Gluten-free option: Use cornstarch instead of flour for thickening
– Instant Pot conversion: Use the sauté function first to brown the chicken, then pressure cook for 15 minutes with a 10-minute natural release

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Preparing Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe

1. Cutting vegetables inconsistently: Ensure uniform sizes for even cooking
2. Overfilling the slow cooker: Never fill beyond 3/4 capacity
3. Lifting the lid frequently: This releases heat and extends cooking time
4. Adding dairy too early: Milk or cream can curdle during long cooking
5. Using frozen chicken: Always thaw meat completely before cooking
6. Underseasoning: Slow cooking can mellow flavors, so check seasoning before serving

Storage & Reheating Tips to Keep Your Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe Fresh

– Refrigeration: Store cooled stew in airtight containers for up to 4 days
– Freezing: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months
– Thawing: Defrost overnight in the refrigerator
– Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or microwave until heated through
– Revitalizing: Add fresh herbs or a splash of lemon juice when reheating

Conclusion: Final Thoughts on Making Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe at Home

This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. The hands-off cooking method makes this Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew perfect for busy days, while the rich flavors and hearty ingredients satisfy even the hungriest appetites. By mastering this versatile recipe, you’ll have a reliable go-to meal for family dinners, meal prep, or feeding a crowd during the colder months.

FAQs About Cooking Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe

Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Yes, bone-in chicken pieces work well and add extra flavor. Just remember to remove the bones before serving or alert your diners.

How can I make this stew thicker?
For a thicker consistency, increase the flour-water slurry to 4 tablespoons each, or reduce the liquid by using only 3 cups of broth.

Can I prep this the night before?
Absolutely! Chop all vegetables and chicken, store separately in the refrigerator, then combine everything in the morning.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes, this stew freezes excellently. Just cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.

What sides pair well with this stew?
Crusty bread, dinner rolls, a simple green salad, or mashed potatoes make excellent accompaniments to this hearty stew.