If you’re searching for a fuss-free, comforting dinner that practically makes itself, this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe is about to become your new go-to. It combines tender chicken, hearty veggies, and a velvety broth, all gently cooked together to create pure, cozy magic. Whether you need a nourishing weeknight meal or want to impress guests with minimal effort, this dish delivers on flavor, texture, and soul-warming satisfaction. Imagine coming home to a house scented with savory herbs and knowing dinner is already done—there’s just nothing better!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe is that the ingredient list remains straightforward, but each component truly matters. From the tender chicken to the aromatic herbs and colorful vegetables, everything works together for a satisfying, balanced stew that’s both nourishing and delicious.
- Chicken thighs or breasts (1 1/2 pounds, cut into chunks): Thighs add extra richness, but breasts work great for a leaner option.
- Carrots (3, peeled and sliced): These sweeten the stew and add beautiful color.
- Celery (3 stalks, sliced): Offers depth of flavor and classic stew crunch.
- Potatoes (3 medium, peeled and diced): Give body and hearty satisfaction—Yukon Gold or russet both work well.
- Onion (1 small, chopped): Aromatic base that melds the flavors together.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Essential for warming depth and bold flavor.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Balances all the other flavors—don’t skimp!
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds just the right amount of warmth.
- Dried thyme (1/2 teaspoon): Lends classic herbal notes with every spoonful.
- Dried rosemary (1/2 teaspoon): Just a hint adds unmistakable aroma.
- Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Offers color and a subtle smoky note.
- All-purpose flour (1/4 cup): Thickens the stew for that perfect texture.
- Low-sodium chicken broth (3 cups): Forms the comforting base, so go for quality here.
- Frozen peas (1/2 cup): Stir in at the end for gentle sweetness and a pop of green.
- Heavy cream (1/4 cup, optional): For extra richness and a silky finish—feel free to skip or sub with milk.
- Chopped parsley for garnish (2 tablespoons, optional): The finishing fresh touch that brightens every bowl.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe
Step 1: Layer Your Veggies and Chicken
Start with the foundation! Add your chicken pieces, carrots, celery, potatoes, onion, and garlic directly into your slow cooker. This is the heart of the Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe, setting up layers of flavor that melt together as it cooks. Make sure everything is chopped so each ingredient cooks evenly.
Step 2: Season and Toss
Sprinkle the salt, pepper, thyme, rosemary, and paprika right over the top. Use a gentle hand to toss all the ingredients together so the spices evenly coat every bite. This simple step really locks in that herby, seasoned flavor—you can smell the goodness already!
Step 3: Add Flour and Broth
Scatter the flour over your mixture and stir it in, making sure all the veggies and chicken get a little dusting. This is how your stew will naturally thicken as it cooks. Next, pour in the chicken broth, giving it another gentle stir to distribute everything. The broth brings the whole stew to life and will transform as it simmers all day.
Step 4: Slow Cook Until Tender
Cover your slow cooker and set it to low for 7 to 8 hours, or high for 4 to 5 hours—whichever suits your schedule! You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is fork-tender and the vegetables are perfectly soft. This is where the Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe really shines; all you need to do is wait!
Step 5: Finish and Adjust
About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the frozen peas and, if you’re using it, the heavy cream. This last-minute addition keeps the peas bright and the cream smooth, giving your stew a luxurious finish. Taste and adjust any seasoning before serving hot, garnished with chopped parsley for a fresh burst of color.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped parsley not only adds a pop of green but also a fresh, herby flavor that brightens up each bowl. For extra warmth, try a little fresh cracked black pepper or even a dusting of grated Parmesan. The finishing touches turn your Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe into a feast for the eyes and the palate.
Side Dishes
Thick slices of rustic bread or flaky homemade biscuits make the perfect partners, ready to soak up every glorious drop of stew. If you’re looking to round out the meal, a crisp green salad or roasted Brussels sprouts add texture and freshness alongside your hearty main. It’s classic comfort food made complete!
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, ladle the stew over creamy mashed potatoes or serve it in a bread bowl for a playful, crowd-pleasing presentation. Hosting a gathering? Offer the stew in small mugs or ramekins alongside a toppings bar for a cozy, DIY approach. This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe is as versatile as your imagination allows!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool any leftover stew to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors mingle and deepen overnight, often making the stew taste even better the next day! This makes meal prep a breeze and ensures you’ve always got a hearty meal on hand.
Freezing
This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe freezes like a dream. Ladle cooled stew into freezer-safe containers, leaving a bit of space for expansion. Seal and freeze for up to 3 months. For best results, freeze without the cream and parsley, adding those fresh when you reheat.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight if frozen, then warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the stew seems a bit thick, just add a splash of broth or water to loosen it. Pop it in the microwave for a quick fix if you’re short on time—either way, it’ll be just as comforting as when freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Both cuts work beautifully in this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe. Thighs bring more richness and tenderness, while breasts are leaner—choose whichever you prefer or have on hand.
How do I make the stew thicker?
You have a couple of easy options: mash a few potatoes into the stew before serving or stir in a slurry made from a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with two tablespoons of cold water. Both methods create a lovely, hearty texture.
Can I prep this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can chop all your veggies and chicken the night before and store them in the fridge. In the morning, simply toss everything into your slow cooker, add the broth and seasonings, and let it do the rest.
What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to mix it up! Parsnips, sweet potatoes, or turnips are delicious alternatives to the classic veggies in this recipe. Just keep the proportions similar so the stew texture stays perfect.
Is the heavy cream necessary?
Nope! The stew is still deliciously cozy and flavorful without it. The cream simply adds extra richness, but you can swap in milk for a lighter touch or leave it out for a dairy-free meal.
Final Thoughts
There’s a special kind of joy in letting the slow cooker work its magic and coming home to a wholesome, from-scratch meal. I hope you fall in love with this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe—just one comforting spoonful at a time. Craving warmth and flavor? Go ahead and give it a try—you’re in for a real treat!
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Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew recipe is a comforting, hearty dish perfect for a cozy meal. Tender chicken and vegetables simmer in a flavorful broth, creating a satisfying meal that’s easy to make.
Ingredients
Chicken Stew:
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts (cut into large chunks)
- 3 carrots (peeled and sliced)
- 3 celery stalks (sliced)
- 3 medium potatoes (peeled and diced)
- 1 small onion (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker: Add chicken, carrots, celery, potatoes, onion, and garlic to a 6-quart slow cooker. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, thyme, rosemary, and paprika. Toss gently to coat.
- Add Flour and Broth: Sprinkle flour over the ingredients and stir to distribute evenly. Pour in the chicken broth and stir once more.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 7–8 hours or on high for 4–5 hours until chicken and vegetables are tender.
- Final Touches: In the last 15 minutes, stir in frozen peas and heavy cream (if using). Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve: Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute sweet potatoes or parsnips for variety.
- For a thicker stew, mash a few potatoes before serving or stir in a cornstarch slurry.
- Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
