Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is a warm, hearty dish that embodies comfort food at its finest. This recipe showcases tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and a rich broth, all simmered together to create a perfect meal for any occasion. Whether it’s a busy weekday or a leisurely weekend dinner, this stew makes cooking effortless, allowing you to enjoy quality time with family while your slow cooker does the hard work.
Why We Love This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe
There are plenty of reasons to love this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew. For one, it’s incredibly versatile. You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences. The slow cooking method brings out the flavors of each ingredient, ensuring a delicious outcome every time. Plus, it’s an excellent way to make a nutritious meal with minimal effort, making it ideal for busy lifestyles. The aroma wafting through your home will have everyone eagerly awaiting dinner!
Ingredients about Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
To create a delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Stew, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 ½ pounds chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- ½ teaspoon salt, plus more for seasoning
- Black pepper, to taste
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 large potatoes, cut into ½-inch cubes (about 1 pound)
- 1 cup green peas, frozen
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 bay leaf
- ½ cup milk
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Directions
Making Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is an easy process that allows you to enjoy a homemade meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. Here is how you create this delicious dish step by step.
Start by preparing the chicken thighs. Cut them into 1-inch pieces and season them generously with salt and pepper. This step helps lock in flavor as they cook.
Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken pieces to the skillet. Sear them for about 4 to 5 minutes until they are browned on all sides. This browning step adds depth to the flavor of your stew, creating a richer taste experience.
After browning the chicken, transfer it to a slow cooker. In the same bowl, coat the chicken with flour, thyme, rosemary, and an additional pinch of salt. The flour will help thicken the stew and create a luscious broth.
Now, add the garlic, onion, sliced carrots, and diced potatoes into the slow cooker with the chicken. Stir everything together to ensure that all the ingredients are well mixed. This not only combines the flavors but also allows every ingredient to absorb the seasoning.
Next, pour in three cups of chicken broth. The broth adds moisture and flavor, making your stew hearty and satisfying. Don’t forget to toss in the bay leaf, which provides an aromatic essence as the stew cooks.
Once you’ve added all the ingredients, give it another gentle stir to mix everything well. Now, cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. If you have the time, slow cooking on low will give your stew the best flavor.
About 15 minutes before the cooking time is done, add the frozen peas and milk to the pot. Stir them in and cook uncovered for the remaining time. This last-minute addition enhances the creaminess and adds a delightful pop of color.
Before serving, taste the stew and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Ladle the stew into bowls for serving. Garnishing it with fresh herbs, if you desire, can give it an extra touch and a burst of freshness.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Serving your Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is just as delightful as making it. A bowl of warm stew is inviting and perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, allowing you to dip and savor every last drop of the thick, flavorful broth.
As you serve, consider adding a side salad for some crunch and freshness. A simple green salad with light vinaigrette complements the heartiness of the stew beautifully. Alternatively, you might want to serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside buttery mashed potatoes for extra comfort.
When it comes to presentation, a few sprigs of fresh parsley or thyme on top of each bowl can elevate it visually and add an aromatic touch that enhances the overall eating experience. Set the table with some warm bread and butter for a complete meal that your family will rave about for days!
Expert Tips: Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
To ensure your Slow Cooker Chicken Stew turns out perfect every time, consider these expert tips:
- Choose the Right Cut of Chicken: While chicken thighs are the recommended choice for their juiciness, you could also use chicken breasts. Keep in mind that they may become drier if overcooked.
- Brown the Chicken: Searing the chicken enhances the flavor of the stew. Don’t skip this step! It adds a nice depth by developing a rich taste.
- Veggie Variations: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables based on your personal preferences or seasonal availability. Sweet potatoes, parsnips, or even green beans can work well.
- Thicken the Stew: If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can remove about a cup of the liquid before serving, mix it with a tablespoon of cornstarch, and stir it back into the slow cooker. This quick adjustment can achieve your desired thickness.
- Make Ahead: This stew can be prepared ahead of time. Simply chop your ingredients the night before and refrigerate them separately. When you’re ready to cook, you can load the slow cooker in just minutes.
How to Store Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Storing your Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is a breeze. Allow the stew to cool completely at room temperature. Once cool, transfer any leftovers into airtight containers. This method will help prevent spoilage and keep the flavors intact.
You can keep the stew in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 5 days. If you want to store it for a longer period, consider freezing it. Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. The stew can be frozen for up to 3 months.
To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Simply heat it on the stove over medium heat until it’s warmed through. You might want to add a splash of additional broth or milk to help reacquaint the consistency.
Variation of Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
One of the best aspects of Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to make it your own! Here are a few tasty variations to consider:
- Herb-Infused Stew: Add fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or basil instead of dried herbs toward the end of cooking for a fresher taste.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a little heat, consider adding a chopped jalapeño or a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy variation.
- Curry Flavor: Stir in a tablespoon of curry powder for a different flavor profile. You’ll have a delightful fusion that adds a warm, spicy aroma.
- Southwestern Flair: Incorporate corn, black beans, and diced green chilies for a southwest twist. You can also substitute some of the chicken broth with salsa for additional flavor.
- Creamy Delight: For a creamier version, incorporate a can of cream of chicken soup alongside the broth for a luscious consistency.
FAQ
What makes this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew so easy to prepare?
This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is simple because you can prepare it with minimal effort. Once the ingredients are prepped and added to the slow cooker, you can go about your day, knowing your meal is cooking itself.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs in this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but chicken thighs are recommended because they remain juicier during cooking. If you do use breasts, be sure to monitor the cooking time to avoid drying them out.
How do I know when the Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is done cooking?
Your stew is done when the chicken is tender and fully cooked through, typically after cooking on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. You can check the chicken with a meat thermometer, which should read 165°F.
Can I make this stew gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for thickening. Just be sure to check all other ingredient labels to ensure gluten-free compliance.
How can I add more protein to my Slow Cooker Chicken Stew?
You can incorporate beans or lentils for additional protein. Adding chickpeas or navy beans can give your stew a nutritious boost while keeping it hearty and satisfying.
Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1.5 pounds chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces Recommended for juiciness
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For browning the chicken
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour To help thicken the stew
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme For flavor
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary For flavor
- 0.5 teaspoon salt Plus more for seasoning to taste
- Black pepper, to taste For additional seasoning
Vegetables
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1 pound large potatoes, cut into ½-inch cubes About 2 large potatoes
- 1 cup green peas, frozen Added later in cooking
Broth
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 bay leaf Provides aromatic essence
- 0.5 cup milk For creaminess added at the end
Instructions
Preparation
- Cut chicken thighs into 1-inch pieces and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and add the seasoned chicken pieces. Sear for about 4 to 5 minutes until browned on all sides.
- Transfer the chicken to a slow cooker. Coat with flour, thyme, rosemary, and an additional pinch of salt.
- Add garlic, onion, carrots, and potatoes into the slow cooker with the chicken and stir well.
- Pour in chicken broth and add the bay leaf. Stir to combine.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
Final Steps
- About 15 minutes before cooking time is done, add frozen peas and milk to the pot and stir.
- Taste the stew and adjust salt and pepper as needed before serving.
- Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
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