Introduction
Have you ever wondered if it is truly possible to create a gourmet quality meal that requires less than fifteen minutes of hands on preparation? Many home cooks believe that deep flavor takes constant attention over a hot stove but I am here to tell you that your crock pot is about to change your life. Today I am sharing my absolute favorite Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe. This dish is the ultimate solution for busy parents and food lovers who want that slowly simmered taste without the stress of a long cooking process.
I still remember the first time I realized the magic of a slow cooker. It was a rainy Tuesday and with the kids Adams and Jana running around I desperately needed something comforting. I tossed some chicken and root vegetables into the pot and by dinner time the house smelled like a rustic farmhouse kitchen. This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe is a staple in my household because it is more than just a meal. It is a warm hug in a bowl that allows our family to connect at the dinner table after a long day of school and work. It is simple approachable and incredibly delicious.
Why You Will Love This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe
- Set It and Forget It Convenience: This recipe is perfect for busy mornings. Simply prep your ingredients and let the slow cooker do all the heavy lifting while you go about your day.
- Nutritious and Hearty: Packed with lean protein and a variety of colorful vegetables this stew is a complete meal that keeps your family healthy and satisfied.
- Budget Friendly: You can use affordable cuts of meat like chicken thighs which actually become more tender and flavorful during the slow cooking process.
- Incredible Texture: Unlike some soups that can feel thin this recipe yields a rich velvety broth that coats every vegetable and piece of chicken perfectly.
- Kid Approved Flavor: The mild yet savory profile makes it a hit even with picky eaters like my daughter Jana who usually avoids her greens but loves them in this stew.
- Easy Cleanup: Since everything cooks in one single pot you will not have a mountain of dishes waiting for you after dinner.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe
To make the best Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe you will need these simple fresh ingredients:
- 2 lbs Chicken thighs skinless and boneless for the best flavor
- 4 large Carrots peeled and sliced into rounds
- 3 large Yukon Gold potatoes chopped into bite sized cubes
- 2 stalks Celery sliced
- 1 large Yellow onion diced
- 3 cloves Garlic minced
- 4 cups Low sodium chicken broth
- 1 tsp Dried thyme
- 1 tsp Dried rosemary
- 1/2 cup Frozen peas added at the end
- 2 tbsp Cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water for thickening
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Substitutions: If you prefer chicken breast you can use it though I recommend thighs for moisture. For a different twist you can substitute sweet potatoes for more vitamins or add a splash of heavy cream at the end if you enjoy chicken and dumpling soup style creaminess.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe
Step by Step Instructions
- Prepare the Base: Start by placing your diced onions garlic celery carrots and potatoes into the bottom of your slow cooker. This creates a flavorful vegetable bed for your chicken.
- Add the Chicken: Season your chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Place the chicken directly on top of the vegetables.
- Season and Pour: Sprinkle the dried thyme and rosemary over the chicken. Pour the chicken broth into the pot until the ingredients are mostly submerged. Do not overfill as the vegetables will release their own juices.
- Slow Cook: Cover the pot with the lid. Cook on Low for 6 to 7 hours or on High for 3 to 4 hours. I always suggest the Low setting if you have the time because it makes the chicken incredibly tender.
- Shred the Chicken: Once the timer is up remove the chicken thighs and place them on a cutting board. Use two forks to gently shred the meat into bite sized pieces then return the chicken to the pot.
- Thicken the Stew: In a small bowl whisk the cornstarch and water together to create a slurry. Stir this into the slow cooker along with the frozen peas.
- Final Heat: Turn the slow cooker to High and cook for another 15 to 20 minutes until the sauce has thickened and the peas are bright green and tender.
Pro Tips and Variations
- Sear the Meat: If you have an extra five minutes sear the chicken in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker to lock in extra savory juices.
- Use Root Vegetables: Don’t be afraid to add parsnips or turnips to your Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe for an earthy depth of flavor similar to an winter minestrone soup.
- Brighten it Up: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh parsley right before serving adds a beautiful pop of acidity and color.
- Vegetarian Option: To make this meat free swap the chicken for chickpeas or extra mushrooms and use vegetable broth.
- Spicy Kick: If you like heat add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeno at the beginning of the cook time.
Serving Suggestions
This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe is a meal on its own but pairing it makes the experience even better. I love serving this with a side of crusty sourdough bread to soak up every drop of that delicious broth. If you want something even more indulgent try serving it alongside a bowl of queso soup for a fun family dipping night. For a lighter side a simple green salad with a vinaigrette provides a nice contrast to the rich stew. You can also find great inspiration for hearty pairings by checking out this slow cooker chicken stew guide which emphasizes traditional rustic sides.
Storage and Reheating for Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe
One of the best things about this recipe is that it often tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld together. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to prep well in advance this stew freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Just be sure to leave a little room at the top of your container for expansion. When you are ready to eat again reheat on the stovetop over medium heat stirring occasionally or use the microwave in 1 minute intervals until piping hot.
FAQ about Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
It is always safest to thaw your chicken before putting it in the slow cooker to ensure it reaches a food safe temperature quickly enough. If you are in a rush check this professional stew guide for tips on safe preparation.
How do I prevent my vegetables from getting mushy?
The key is to cut your potatoes and carrots into larger uniform chunks. This ensures they hold their shape during the long cooking process without turning into a puree.
Can I add noodles or rice?
Absolutely If you want to add pasta or rice cook them separately and stir them in at the very end to prevent them from becoming soggy and absorbing all the liquid.
Final Thoughts on Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe
I truly hope this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe brings as much warmth and joy to your home as it does to mine. Cooking is about making people happy and there is nothing quite like a homemade meal to bring the family together. If you enjoyed this recipe please save it to your favorite board on Pinterest and leave a comment below telling me how it turned out for you. Do not forget to subscribe to Mister Recipes for more kitchen hacks and family favorites. Grab your apron and let us get cooking
Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Place diced onions, garlic, celery, carrots, and potatoes into the bottom of your slow cooker.
- Season chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Place the chicken directly on top of the vegetables.
- Sprinkle dried thyme and rosemary over the chicken. Pour the chicken broth into the pot until the ingredients are mostly submerged.
- Cover the pot with the lid. Cook on Low for 6 to 7 hours or on High for 3 to 4 hours.
- Once the timer is up, remove the chicken thighs and place them on a cutting board. Use two forks to gently shred the meat into bite-sized pieces, then return the chicken to the pot.
- In a small bowl, whisk the cornstarch and water together to create a slurry. Stir this into the slow cooker along with the frozen peas.
- Turn the slow cooker to High and cook for another 15 to 20 minutes until the sauce has thickened and the peas are bright green and tender.