Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe – Easy & Delicious Family Favorite!

A Hug in a Bowl: The Only Chicken Stew You’ll Ever Need

Have you ever wondered if it’s possible to capture the warmth of a crackling fireplace and the comfort of a Sunday afternoon in a single dish? For years, I’ve been on a mission to find that perfect meal, the one that tells a story of home, warmth, and effortless love. It turns out the answer was simmering away in my slow cooker all along. Hi there! I’m Benjamin, and I believe that the best meals are the ones that bring us together without any fuss. This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe is the embodiment of that belief. It’s the culinary equivalent of a warm hug on a chilly day. I still remember the first time I made it for my family. The aroma of simmering herbs and vegetables filled the house, and seeing the smiles on my kids’ faces as they devoured every last bite was pure magic. This isn’t just about feeding your family; it’s about creating moments, about crafting a delicious sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. This stew is my go to for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, and whenever we need a little extra comfort. It’s simple, it’s wholesome, and it’s packed with the kind of flavor that feels like coming home.

Cooking for my family, for Emily and my two wonderful kids, is my greatest joy. This stew has become a staple in our home, a delicious tradition we all look forward to. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s a story of comfort, a testament to the power of a home cooked meal to bring people together. I’m so excited to share this piece of my kitchen with you. Grab your apron, and let’s create something truly special together. Let’s make a meal that everyone will love, a meal that’s both incredibly delicious and wonderfully simple to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe

This isn’t just another recipe; it’s a lifesaver for busy parents and anyone craving a delicious, home cooked meal without the effort. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out, making it a perfect addition to your regular meal rotation. Here is why you and your family will fall head over heels for this stew.

• Effortlessly Delicious: The beauty of a slow cooker is that it does all the hard work for you. With minimal prep time, you can set it and forget it, returning hours later to a perfectly cooked, flavorful stew. The low and slow cooking process tenderizes the chicken until it’s fall apart tender and allows the flavors of the vegetables and herbs to meld together in the most beautiful way. It’s truly a one pot wonder that delivers a gourmet taste with beginner level effort.
• Family Friendly & Kid Approved: Finding a meal that pleases everyone can be a challenge, but this stew is a certified winner. The ingredients are simple, wholesome, and familiar. Tender chicken, sweet carrots, hearty potatoes, and savory peas swim in a rich, delicious gravy that kids can’t resist. My own children, Adams and Jana, ask for this stew by name. It’s a fantastic way to pack a variety of vegetables into their diet in a way they’ll actually enjoy.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This recipe is a dream for meal prepping. It makes a generous batch, and the flavors get even better the next day. You can cook it on a Sunday and enjoy easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. It freezes beautifully, so you can always have a comforting, homemade meal ready to go for those extra busy nights. It’s the gift that keeps on giving.
• Hearty & Comforting: There is nothing quite like a bowl of hearty stew to make you feel cozy and content. Each spoonful is packed with tender chicken, soft vegetables, and a rich, savory broth. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings, rainy days, or whenever you need a little extra TLC. It’s a meal that nourishes both the body and the soul. If you love one pot meals, you might also enjoy our one pot chicken alfredo for another easy weeknight option.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1 inch cubes
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 4 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 3 celery stalks, chopped
• 1.5 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into 1 inch cubes
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups low sodium chicken broth
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup cold water
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Substitutions:

• Potatoes: Feel free to use Russet potatoes or red potatoes. Sweet potatoes also add a lovely, sweet flavor.
• Vegetables: You can add other vegetables like mushrooms, green beans, or corn. This is a great recipe for cleaning out your vegetable drawer.
• Herbs: If you have fresh thyme and rosemary, use 1 tablespoon of each instead of the dried versions for a more vibrant flavor.

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe

Creating this delicious stew is incredibly simple. The magic happens as the ingredients slowly simmer together, creating a rich and flavorful meal with very little effort on your part. Follow these detailed steps to ensure your stew comes out perfectly every time. I’ve broken it down to be as clear as possible, making this a perfect recipe for even the most novice cooks. Remember, cooking should be a joy, not a chore!

Step by Step Instructions

1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Before you begin, take a few minutes to wash and chop all your vegetables. Cut the chicken into uniform, bite sized pieces. This initial preparation is the most hands on part of the entire recipe. Once this is done, the rest is a breeze. Having everything ready to go makes the process smooth and enjoyable.
2. Layer the Slow Cooker: Place the cubed potatoes, chopped onion, sliced carrots, and chopped celery in the bottom of a 6 quart or larger slow cooker. Spreading the vegetables on the bottom prevents the chicken from sticking and allows it to cook in the flavorful juices.
3. Add Chicken and Seasonings: Arrange the chicken pieces on top of the vegetables. Sprinkle the minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper over the chicken. Tuck the bay leaves into the mixture. This layering helps all the ingredients cook evenly and infuse each other with flavor.
4. Pour in the Broth: Pour the chicken broth over all the ingredients. Ensure that the liquid covers most of the chicken and vegetables. This broth will transform into a delicious, savory gravy as it cooks.
5. Cook Low and Slow: Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours. I highly recommend the low and slow method. It yields the most tender chicken and allows for a deeper flavor development. Your house will smell absolutely amazing!
6. Thicken the Stew: About 30 minutes before serving, it’s time to create that luscious, thick gravy. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until you have a smooth slurry with no lumps. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker. This will thicken the stew into a rich and creamy consistency. For other takes on this classic, check out this version from Oh Sweet Basil.
7. Add the Final Touches: Add the frozen peas to the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking. They only need a short time to heat through and will add a pop of color and sweetness. Before serving, remove and discard the bay leaves. Give the stew a final taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
8. Serve and Garnish: Ladle the hot stew into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. The fresh herb adds a bright, clean flavor that perfectly complements the rich stew. Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting goodness.

Pro Tips & Variations

Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, there are so many ways to make this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe your own. Here are some of my favorite pro tips and variations that I’ve discovered in my own kitchen. These little tweaks can elevate your stew from great to absolutely unforgettable.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Stew

• Brown the Chicken First: While not strictly necessary, searing the chicken cubes in a hot, oiled skillet before adding them to the slow cooker adds a tremendous amount of flavor. This process, known as the Maillard reaction, creates a deep, savory crust that enhances the overall taste of the stew. It’s an extra step, but one I highly recommend if you have the time.
• Deglaze the Pan: If you do brown the chicken, don’t leave those flavorful browned bits (the fond) in the pan! After removing the chicken, pour a little of your chicken broth into the hot skillet and scrape up the fond with a wooden spoon. Add this flavorful liquid directly to your slow cooker for an extra layer of C.
• Use Chicken Thighs: While chicken breasts work wonderfully, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are my personal favorite for stews. They have a slightly higher fat content, which means they stay incredibly moist and tender even after hours of slow cooking. They also add a richer, more succulent flavor to the broth. If you love chicken thigh recipes, our crispy honey sriracha chicken thighs are another must try.

Creative Variations

• Creamy Chicken Stew: For a richer, creamier stew, stir in a 1/2 cup of heavy cream or full fat coconut milk during the last 30 minutes of cooking, along with the cornstarch slurry. This adds a luxurious texture and taste that is pure comfort. You can also explore our delicious creamy tuscan chicken for another creamy favorite.
• Spicy Chicken Stew: If you like a bit of heat, add a chopped jalapeño, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or a dash of your favorite hot sauce along with the other seasonings. This gives the stew a gentle warmth that builds with every bite.
• Gluten Free Version: The recipe is naturally almost gluten free. Simply ensure your chicken broth is certified gluten free. The cornstarch slurry is a perfect gluten free thickener.

Serving Suggestions

The beauty of this hearty stew is that it can be a complete meal all on its own. However, if you want to stretch the meal further or create a more elaborate dining experience, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are some of my favorite ways to serve this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew.

• Crusty Bread or Dinner Rolls: This is non negotiable in my house! A thick slice of warm, crusty bread is the perfect vessel for sopping up every last drop of the delicious, savory gravy. Whether it’s a French baguette, a rustic sourdough, or simple dinner rolls, make sure you have something on hand for dipping.
• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: For the ultimate comfort food experience, serve the chicken stew over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes. The potatoes will soak up the gravy, creating a combination that is absolutely divine. It’s a hearty and satisfying pairing that is perfect for a cold winter’s night.
• Fluffy Rice or Quinoa: Serving the stew over a bed of fluffy white rice, brown rice, or quinoa is another excellent option. It makes the meal even more substantial and soaks up the flavorful broth beautifully.
• A Simple Green Salad: To balance the richness of the stew, a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is a perfect companion. The crisp, fresh greens provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty stew. It’s a great way to add more greens to your meal. You could also serve it alongside a chicken and vegetable skillet for a different texture. For a different take on chicken stew, the one by The Almond Eater is also fantastic.

Storage & Reheating for Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe

One of the best things about this stew is that the leftovers are just as delicious, if not more so! The flavors continue to meld and deepen overnight. Here’s how to properly store and reheat your stew to enjoy it later.

Storage

• Refrigerator: Allow the stew to cool completely at room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: This stew freezes exceptionally well. Let it cool completely, then portion it into freezer safe containers or zip top bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. This is a fantastic way to stock your freezer with homemade meals for busy days.

Reheating

• Stovetop: This is my preferred method. Gently reheat the stew in a saucepan over medium low heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through. If the stew has thickened too much, you can add a splash of chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
• Microwave: Place a single serving of the stew in a microwave safe bowl. Cover and heat on high for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until hot.

FAQ about Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe

Here are some common questions I get about this recipe. I hope these answers help you make this delicious stew with confidence!

Can I put frozen chicken in the slow cooker?
For food safety reasons, it’s best to thaw your chicken completely before adding it to the slow cooker. Putting frozen chicken directly into the slow cooker can keep it in the “danger zone” (40°F to 140°F) for too long, which can allow bacteria to grow.

My stew is too thin. How can I thicken it?
The cornstarch slurry is the best way to thicken the stew. If you’ve already added it and feel it’s still too thin, you can create another small slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch to 1 tablespoon cold water) and stir it in. Let the stew simmer for another 15 to 20 minutes on HIGH to allow it to thicken.

What other vegetables can I add to this chicken stew?
This recipe is incredibly versatile! Feel free to add other hearty vegetables like parsnips, turnips, butternut squash, or mushrooms. Add them at the beginning with the other vegetables. For more delicate vegetables like green beans or spinach, stir them in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Can I make this recipe on the stovetop?
Yes, you can! In a large Dutch oven or pot, sauté the onions, carrots, and celery. Brown the chicken, then add all the remaining ingredients (except the peas and cornstarch slurry). Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the chicken is tender and the vegetables are cooked through. Thicken with the cornstarch slurry and add the peas at the end as directed.

Final Thoughts on Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe

I truly hope you love this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe as much as my family and I do. It’s a meal that represents everything I love about cooking: simplicity, comfort, and the joy of sharing good food with the people you love. Every bowl is a reminder that the best meals don’t have to be complicated, they just have to be made with a little bit of care.

If you make this recipe, I would be thrilled to hear from you! Please leave a comment and a rating below to let me know how it turned out. Your feedback helps me and inspires other readers in our amazing community of home cooks.

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Happy cooking!

Benjamin

Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe

This effortless Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is the ultimate comfort food, with tender chicken, vegetables, and herbs simmering to perfection for a hearty, wholesome meal that warms the soul.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 8 hours hrs

Total Time 8 hours hrs 20 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

Chicken

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1 inch cubes

Vegetables

• 1 large yellow onion chopped
• 4 carrots peeled and sliced
• 3 celery stalks chopped
• 1.5 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes cut into 1 inch cubes
• 4 cloves garlic minced
• 1 cup frozen peas

Broth and Seasonings

• 6 cups low sodium chicken broth
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 2 bay leaves
• salt and black pepper to taste

Thickener and Garnish

• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup cold water
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Equipment

• 6 Quart Slow Cooker

Method

 

1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Wash and chop all vegetables. Cut the chicken into uniform, bite-sized pieces.
2. Layer the Slow Cooker: Place the cubed potatoes, chopped onion, sliced carrots, and chopped celery in the bottom of a 6-quart or larger slow cooker.
3. Add Chicken and Seasonings: Arrange the chicken pieces on top of the vegetables. Sprinkle the minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper over the chicken. Tuck the bay leaves into the mixture.
4. Pour in the Broth: Pour the chicken broth over all the ingredients, ensuring the liquid covers most of the chicken and vegetables.
5. Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours.
6. Thicken the Stew: About 30 minutes before serving, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl. Stir this slurry into the slow cooker.
7. Add the Final Touches: Add the frozen peas during the last 30 minutes. Remove and discard bay leaves. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
8. Serve and Garnish: Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve hot.

Nutrition

Calories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 35gFat: 8g

Notes

For the best flavor, cook on LOW. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat on stovetop or microwave. Variations: Add jalapeño for spice, cream for richness, or use fresh herbs for brighter flavor. Pairs well with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes.

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