This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is just perfect for chilly days! With tender chicken, colorful veggies, and a rich broth, it’s a warm hug in a bowl.
Making this stew is a breeze! Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do its magic while you kick back. I love coming home to that delicious smell! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I love using chicken thighs in this stew because they stay juicy and flavorful. However, if you prefer chicken breasts for a leaner option, feel free to swap. Just keep an eye to avoid overcooking!
Carrots and Potatoes: These root veggies add heartiness to the stew. You can replace carrots with parsnips or sweet potatoes if you like. For the potatoes, Yukon gold or red potatoes work well; just avoid starchy ones like Russets for this dish.
Seasonings: The herbs bring wonderful flavor. If you’re out of thyme or rosemary, Italian seasoning could be a good substitute. Fresh herbs add brightness, but dried works just fine!
Flour for Thickening: If you want a gluten-free option, use cornstarch instead. Just mix it with cold water and stir it in the last 30 minutes, just like flour.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Stew?
Building layers of flavor is key! Searing the chicken first really brings out its taste. If you’re in a hurry, you can skip this step, but you’ll miss that deep flavor!
- Always taste your broth before adding extra salt. Different broths vary in saltiness.
- For more depth, consider adding a splash of white wine or a bit of Worcestershire sauce for a touch of umami.
During cooking, the longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together. So take that time if you can!
Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stew:
- 1.5 pounds (700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
- 4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 stalks celery, sliced
- 1 cup frozen peas (added near the end)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Time Estimate:
This hearty stew takes about 15-20 minutes for prep and cooking time of 3-8 hours, depending on if you set it on high or low. It’s a perfect set-it-and-forget-it meal for your cozy evenings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sear the Chicken (Optional):
In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Season your chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and paprika. Place the chicken in the hot skillet and sear until lightly browned on all sides, around 3-4 minutes per side. This step boosts flavor but can be skipped if you’re in a hurry.
2. Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker:
Transfer the seared chicken to the slow cooker. Now, add in the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, and sliced celery to the pot.
3. Pour in the Broth and Season:
Next, pour the chicken broth over everything in the slow cooker. Sprinkle in the thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, and any additional salt and pepper. Give everything a gentle stir to mix it up a bit!
4. Cooking Time:
Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. You want the chicken to be tender and the vegetables fully cooked. You can go about your day while this cooks!
5. Thicken and Add Peas:
If you’d like a thicker stew, about 30 minutes before serving, mix the flour with a little cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the stew. Then, add the frozen peas as well for a pop of color and sweetness.
6. Final Touches:
After the final 30 minutes, remove the bay leaves from the stew and adjust the seasoning if needed. Give it a good stir before serving!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your warm, comforting chicken stew hot in bowls. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for that extra touch. Enjoy your cozy meal!
This easy chicken stew is perfect for family dinners or when you have guests over, and it makes great leftovers too! Happy cooking! 😊
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to increase the cooking time by about an hour if cooking on low, as frozen chicken takes longer to cook. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before serving.
Can I Make This Stew in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stew in advance, but it’s best to store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days after cooking. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
What Can I Substitute for the Potatoes?
If you want to change things up, you can substitute potatoes with sweet potatoes, parsnips, or even turnips. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
How Can I Thicken the Stew Without Flour?
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can thicken the stew with a cornstarch slurry instead. Mix 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with cold water and add it to the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking, stirring well to combine.
