Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

A delightful Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is the perfect dish for cozy evenings and family gatherings. This comforting recipe combines tender chicken with hearty vegetables, creating a creamy texture without the use of cream. It’s simple to prepare and lets your slow cooker do all the work, making it ideal for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead. Enjoy this stew on chilly days, served with fresh bread or over rice for a satisfying meal.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Stew
• How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
• Step 1: Prepare Chicken
• Step 2: Transfer Ingredients
• Step 3: Add Vegetables
• Step 4: Slow Cook
• Step 5: Finish Up
• Step 6: Serve
• How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
• With Crusty Bread
• Over Rice
• On a Bed of Greens
• As a Standalone Dish
• How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
• Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
• Reheating Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How do I make my Slow Cooker Chicken Stew thicker?
• Can I use frozen chicken in Slow Cooker Chicken Stew?
• What vegetables can I add to my Slow Cooker Chicken Stew?
• How long does Slow Cooker Chicken Stew take?
• Can I substitute chicken thighs with breasts in this recipe?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: Just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do its magic.
• Rich flavor: The combination of herbs and slow cooking results in a deeply flavorful stew.
• Versatile ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or spices.
• Healthy comfort food: Packed with protein and nutrients, this stew warms you up without guilt.
• Great for leftovers: Reheat easily for quick meals throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make preparing your Slow Cooker Chicken Stew even easier. Below are essential items you’ll need to create this delicious dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is essential for slow cooking your chicken and vegetables to perfection, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Large skillet: Ideal for searing chicken, which locks in juices and enhances flavor before adding it to the slow cooker.
• Cutting board & knife: These tools ensure safe and efficient chopping of ingredients, making prep time quicker.

Ingredients

A hearty and creamy chicken stew without the use of cream, this comforting slow cooker recipe is perfect for chilly days.

For the Stew

• 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 to season
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 large potatoes, cut into ½-inch cubes (1 pound)
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 bay leaf
• ½ cup milk
• 1 cup frozen green peas
• Black pepper, to season

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Step 1: Prepare Chicken

Dice the chicken thighs into 1-inch pieces and season generously with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and sear for 4-5 minutes until browned on all sides. You don’t need to cook the chicken through—just sear to lock in the juices.

Step 2: Transfer Ingredients

Transfer the seared chicken to the slow cooker. Sprinkle with flour, thyme, rosemary, and ½ teaspoon salt. Stir to coat the chicken evenly in the flour and herbs.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Add garlic, onion, carrots, and potatoes to the slow cooker. Stir to combine everything well. Pour in chicken broth and add bay leaf.

Step 4: Slow Cook

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until everything is tender.

Step 5: Finish Up

Once cooking time is complete, stir in frozen peas and milk. Cook on high for an additional 10-15 minutes until peas are warmed through. If needed, adjust thickness by adding more broth or flour.

Step 6: Serve

Taste your stew and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately while hot! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Enjoy your homemade Slow Cooker Chicken Stew!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Serving your Slow Cooker Chicken Stew can enhance the meal experience. Here are some delightful suggestions that pair wonderfully with this hearty dish.

With Crusty Bread

• Freshly Baked Baguette: Perfect for dipping into the stew, this bread will soak up all the delicious flavors.
• Garlic Bread: Adds a savory touch and is great for mopping up any leftover sauce.

Over Rice

• Steamed White Rice: A simple and classic option that balances the richness of the stew.
• Brown Rice: Provides a nutty flavor and more fiber for a healthier choice.

On a Bed of Greens

• Mixed Salad Greens: Tossed with a light vinaigrette, they make a refreshing contrast to the warm stew.
• Spinach or Kale: Slightly wilted greens can add nutrients and texture when served underneath the stew.

As a Standalone Dish

• In Individual Bowls: Serve the stew in bowls with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for an appealing presentation.
• With Cheese Topping: Grated cheese melted on top adds extra creaminess and flavor.

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How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

To ensure your Slow Cooker Chicken Stew turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality chicken enhance flavor significantly.
• Sear Chicken First: Searing locks in juices and adds depth to the overall taste.
• Adjust Seasoning Carefully: Taste before serving, so you can adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• Customize Veggies: Feel free to add seasonal vegetables for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Thicken Wisely: If too thin, whisk in flour; if too thick, add broth gradually until desired consistency is reached.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Chicken Stew can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Buttered Noodles: Easy to prepare and absorb the stew’s sauce well.
2. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes provide comfort and complement the hearty chicken stew.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies brings color and nutrition to the table.
4. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread offers a delightful contrast to the savory stew.
5. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb option that serves as a light base for the chicken stew.
6. Quinoa Salad: Nutty quinoa mixed with fresh herbs adds freshness alongside your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making slow cooker chicken stew can be simple, but there are common errors that can affect the final dish. Here are some mistakes to watch for:

• Overcrowding the slow cooker: This can prevent even cooking and may lead to uneven textures. Stick to the recommended amounts in the recipe.
• Skipping the searing step: Searing the chicken adds rich flavor. Don’t skip this step; it enhances the overall taste of your stew.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Taste your stew before serving! Adjust salt and pepper as needed to elevate flavors.
• Using low-quality broth: The broth is a key component; choose a good quality chicken broth for a more flavorful stew.
• Not letting it cook long enough: Chicken needs time to tenderize properly in the slow cooker. Follow the recommended cooking times for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover slow cooker chicken stew in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

• Divide leftovers into portions before freezing for convenience.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring to remove as much air as possible.
• Frozen stew can last up to 3 months.

Reheating Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place stew in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 30 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power. Stir halfway through heating until hot, about 4-6 minutes depending on your microwave’s wattage.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, which should take about 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making slow cooker chicken stew, you’re not alone. Here are some common inquiries:

How do I make my Slow Cooker Chicken Stew thicker?

To thicken your stew, mix a bit of flour or cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the stew during the last cooking phase.

Can I use frozen chicken in Slow Cooker Chicken Stew?

Yes, but it’s best to thaw it first. Cooking from frozen can lead to uneven cooking and food safety issues.

What vegetables can I add to my Slow Cooker Chicken Stew?

Feel free to customize by adding vegetables like bell peppers, celery, or green beans for added flavor and nutrition.

How long does Slow Cooker Chicken Stew take?

Cooking on low takes about 7-8 hours, while cooking on high takes around 3-4 hours.

Can I substitute chicken thighs with breasts in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use chicken breasts instead of thighs if you prefer leaner meat.

Final Thoughts

This slow cooker chicken stew is a comforting dish perfect for chilly days. Its creamy texture without cream makes it lighter yet satisfying. Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or spices for added flair. Give this hearty meal a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!