why make this recipe

Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is perfect for busy days. You can throw everything into the slow cooker in the morning and come home to a warm, hearty meal. This dish is comforting, nourishing, and packed with flavor. It’s also a great way to use up vegetables you have on hand. Plus, the chicken becomes tender and juicy after slow cooking.

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 enjoy it with crusty bread on the side for dipping, or over rice for a more filling meal. It also makes a great lunch for the next day.

how to store Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

To store leftovers, let the stew cool completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the stew for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

tips to make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

For more flavor, you can add other herbs like rosemary or oregano.
If you like a thicker stew, consider using the flour to thicken the broth.
Feel free to add other vegetables such as green beans or peas.
Always taste before serving to adjust seasonings to your liking.

variation

For a different twist, you can make this stew with beef instead of chicken. Just adjust the cooking time, as beef may need longer to become tender. You can also switch up the broth with vegetable broth for a meatless version.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to increase the cooking time by a couple of hours.

Can I make this stew in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and place them in the slow cooker in the morning, or make the entire dish a day or two earlier.

How do I reheat leftover chicken stew?
You can reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave until heated through. Add a little water or broth if it’s too thick.