This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is warm and hearty, filled with tender chicken, fresh veggies, and tasty herbs. It’s the perfect meal for a cozy night in!
Just toss everything in the slow cooker, set it, and forget it! I love coming home to the delicious smell wafting through the house. What a treat! 🍲
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless thighs are my favorite for this stew due to their tenderness and moisture. If you prefer chicken breasts, that’s fine too! You could also use rotisserie chicken for added convenience—just toss it in right before serving.
Carrots & Celery: These add flavor and sweetness. If you don’t have carrots, parsnips or bell peppers can work well too. For celery, feel free to skip it if you don’t like it. Green beans or zucchini can be tasty substitutes.
Potatoes: I love using Yukon Gold potatoes for their buttery flavor. Russets are another option, but they can break down more. Sweet potatoes can also be a great twist—try them for a sweeter taste!
Chicken Broth: Homemade is best, but store-bought works just as well. If you need a lower-sodium option, look for low-sodium broth. You can also use vegetable broth if you want to make it vegetarian (just replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu).
How Do I Get the Chicken to Be Tender and Juicy?
To ensure the chicken is tender, brown it lightly in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker. This seals in the juices and adds depth to the flavor. However, if you’re short on time or prefer to skip this step, don’t worry; the slow cooking will naturally tenderize the chicken.
- Use low heat cooking for a longer time (6-8 hours) to allow flavors to meld.
- Avoid opening the lid frequently, as this releases heat and can affect cooking time.
By following these tips, you can enjoy a warm, flavorful chicken stew that’s perfect for any day!
Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stew:
- 1.5 to 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
- 4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Thickening (optional):
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cold water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty chicken stew will take about 15-20 minutes to prepare and then you can let it cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Perfect for busy days when you want to come home to a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Chicken:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and lightly brown them on all sides for about 4-5 minutes. This step is optional but helps to add more flavor to the dish. Once browned, transfer the chicken to the slow cooker.
2. Add the Vegetables:
Into the slow cooker with the chicken, add the prepared carrots, celery, diced potatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Give everything a good stir to combine.
3. Pour in the Broth:
Next, pour the chicken broth over the mixture in the slow cooker. Sprinkle in the dried thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper, and add the bay leaf. Stir gently again to mix everything nicely.
4. Let It Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The goal is to have the chicken and vegetables soft and tender when you’re ready to serve.
5. Thicken the Stew (Optional):
If you like your stew thicker, about 30 minutes before serving, mix the flour and cold water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Stir this into the stew and cover again, cooking on high until thickened.
6. Finish Up:
Before serving, be sure to remove the bay leaf. Give the stew a taste and adjust any seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed. This stew is fantastic served hot with crusty bread or over a bed of rice.
Enjoy your comforting homemade slow cooker chicken stew! Perfect for any chilly day! 😊
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Stew?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just ensure it’s completely thawed before adding it to the slow cooker. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or use the quick method of placing it in a sealed bag submerged in cold water.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage (up to 3 months). To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in vegetables like peas, corn, bell peppers, or even green beans. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if you use veggies that cook quicker.
What Can I Use Instead of Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth, vegetable broth is a great substitute for a similar taste. You can also use water, but it will have less flavor. For an extra kick, consider adding a dash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to enhance the taste!
