Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

A Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is the perfect dish for chilly days, bringing warmth and comfort to your table. This hearty and creamy stew is unique because it achieves its richness without any cream, making it a healthier option. Suitable for family dinners or cozy gatherings, this recipe showcases tender chicken and vibrant vegetables simmered to perfection. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort.

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Stew
• For Garnish
• How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
• Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
• Step 2: Sear the Chicken
• Step 3: Transfer to Slow Cooker
• Step 4: Add Vegetables
• Step 5: Pour in Broth
• Step 6: Cook Time
• Step 7: Final Touches
• Step 8: Adjust Consistency & Seasoning
• Step 9: Serve & Store
• How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
• With Crusty Bread
• Over Rice
• Topped with Fresh Herbs
• With a Salad
• 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 can I customize my Slow Cooker Chicken Stew?
• Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
• What do I serve with Slow Cooker Chicken Stew?
• How do I ensure my stew is thick enough?
• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Simply toss all ingredients into the slow cooker and let it do the work for you.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of herbs and seared chicken creates a depth of flavor that’s irresistible.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite vegetables or add spices to make it your own.
• Healthy Comfort Food: Enjoy a creamy texture without the added calories from traditional cream-based recipes.
• Great for Leftovers: This stew stores well, making it perfect for meal prep or quick lunches throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather these essential tools before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: The star of this recipe; it allows flavors to meld beautifully over time while you focus on other tasks.
• Large skillet: Perfect for searing the chicken, ensuring maximum flavor before slow cooking.
• Cutting board: Keeps your workspace organized and safe when chopping ingredients.

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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

PIN THIS!

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Dice the chicken thighs into 1-inch pieces and season generously with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
– Add the seasoned chicken pieces.
– Sear for 4-5 minutes until browned on all sides (you don’t need to cook through).

Step 3: Transfer to Slow Cooker

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

Step 4: Add Vegetables

Add garlic, onion, carrots, and potatoes to the slow cooker.
– Stir everything together.

Step 5: Pour in Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and add a bay leaf.
– Cover the slow cooker.

Step 6: Cook Time

Cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Step 7: Final Touches

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.

Step 8: Adjust Consistency & Seasoning

If the stew is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth. If too thin:
– Whisk in a little extra flour to thicken.
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.

Step 9: Serve & Store

Serve immediately. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors and textures. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to consider.

With Crusty Bread

• Sourdough or Baguette: Serve with slices of crusty bread for dipping into the stew, soaking up all the rich flavors.
• Garlic Bread: Pair with buttered garlic bread for a comforting and flavorful addition.

Over Rice

• White Rice: A simple base that absorbs the stew’s broth beautifully.
• Brown Rice: Adds a nutty flavor and more fiber to your meal.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Thyme Leaves: Add a few fresh thyme leaves just before serving for an aromatic touch.

With a Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the heartiness of the stew.
• Caesar Salad: The creaminess of Caesar dressing complements the stew’s richness.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

To achieve the best results with your Slow Cooker Chicken Stew, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken enhance the overall flavor.
• Don’t Skip Searing: Searing the chicken locks in juices, giving your stew a richer taste.
• Adjust Consistency: If your stew is too thick, add broth; if too thin, whisk in extra flour to thicken it up.
• Season Generously: Taste and adjust seasoning before serving for maximum flavor.
• Let it Rest After Cooking: Allowing the stew to sit for 10-15 minutes enhances flavors as they meld together.
• Experiment with Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or green beans for variety.

PIN THIS!

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

When serving Slow Cooker Chicken Stew, pairing it with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make for a comforting side that pairs well with the stew’s texture.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add an earthy flavor that complements the dish perfectly.
3. Buttered Noodles: Simple egg noodles tossed in butter create a light and satisfying accompaniment.
4. Cornbread: This slightly sweet bread adds a delightful contrast to the savory stew.
5. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad can provide a nutritious balance alongside the hearty stew.
6. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus offers a crisp texture that brightens up the meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Chicken Stew, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the Searing: Not searing the chicken can lead to a less flavorful stew. Sear the chicken in olive oil to lock in juices and enhance flavor.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Under-seasoning can make your stew bland. Always taste as you go and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper for optimal flavor.
• Overcrowding the Slow Cooker: Filling the slow cooker too full can prevent even cooking. Stick to recommended quantities to allow proper heat distribution.
• Not Adding Enough Liquid: A lack of liquid can cause your stew to dry out. Ensure you add enough chicken broth for a hearty, moist consistency.
• Neglecting Cooking Times: Cooking for too long or too short affects texture. Follow the recommended cooking times for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezing Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

• Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be stored for up to 3 months; label with date for reference.

Reheating Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer stew to an oven-safe dish and cover. Heat until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place stew in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour stew into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 10 minutes.

PIN THIS!

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I customize my Slow Cooker Chicken Stew?

You can add different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. Adjust herbs based on your taste preference, such as adding parsley or basil.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be substituted if you prefer leaner meat. However, they may require less cooking time.

What do I serve with Slow Cooker Chicken Stew?

This stew pairs well with crusty bread or over rice. You could also serve it with a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

How do I ensure my stew is thick enough?

If your stew is too thin after cooking, whisk in a little extra flour or cornstarch mixed with water to thicken it up.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew stores well and tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is a comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly days. Its creamy texture without cream makes it healthy yet indulgent. Feel free to customize ingredients based on what you have on hand for a unique twist each time you make it!

---