SPREAD LOVE

Why Make This Recipe

Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for busy days. It cooks slowly and evenly, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully. Just set it and forget it! This recipe is great for families because it provides a hearty meal that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite veggies or herbs.

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Ingredients:

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
3 carrots, diced
3 celery stalks, diced
1 onion, diced
4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
4 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried thyme
2 bay leaves
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/4 cup all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Directions:

Step 1: Sear the chicken in a hot skillet until golden brown.
Step 2: Place the seared chicken, diced vegetables, potatoes, minced garlic, and bay leaves into the slow cooker.
Step 3: Sprinkle thyme, salt, and pepper over the ingredients and stir to distribute the flavors.
Step 4: Pour in the chicken broth. If using flour, whisk it with a little broth or water before adding, or sprinkle over and stir to thicken.
Step 5: Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until chicken and vegetables are tender.
Step 6: Remove bay leaves, taste and adjust seasoning, and serve garnished with fresh parsley.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Serve the Chicken Stew hot, in bowls. You can pair it with crusty bread or over rice for a filling meal. Top each serving with fresh parsley for a nice touch.

How to Store Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Let the stew cool down before storing. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or microwave until hot.

Tips to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine when you pour in the chicken broth.
You can substitute any of the vegetables based on what you like or have on hand.
If you want a thicker stew, let it cook uncovered for the last hour or use the flour method mentioned in the directions.

Variation

You can make this stew with different meats like beef or turkey. You can also add beans for extra protein or other veggies like corn or peas for added color and nutrition.

FAQs

Can I make this stew with frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to cook it on high for 5-6 hours instead.

Is it necessary to sear the chicken first?
Searing the chicken enhances the flavor, but you can skip this step for a quicker prep.

Can I add more spices to the stew?
Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste. Herbs like rosemary or spices like paprika can add great flavor.