This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is perfect for a cozy dinner! It’s packed with tender chicken, carrots, and potatoes, simmered to tasty perfection while you relax.
You simply toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work. I love coming home to that wonderful smell! It feels like a warm hug in a bowl. 🥣
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, chicken breasts work great too. For a vegetarian version, try using chickpeas or lentils instead!
Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness and texture. If you don’t have fresh ones, you can use frozen carrots, reducing the cooking time slightly.
Potatoes: I prefer Russet potatoes for their fluffiness. You can swap them with Yukon Gold for creamier results or sweet potatoes for a different flavor.
Broth: Chicken broth is perfect for depth of flavor, but feel free to use vegetable broth for a lighter option, especially if substituting chicken with beans.
Herbs: I use thyme and rosemary for warmth. Dried herbs are fantastic, but if you have fresh ones, use those for even better flavor. Just remember to adjust the amounts, as fresh herbs are milder.
How Do You Get the Perfectly Tender Chicken in Your Stew?
The key to tender chicken is all about cooking it low and slow. Start by searing the chicken if you’d like, as this locks in flavor. Then layer it with veggies before adding broth. It’s important to keep the slow cooker covered, as opening it can let heat escape. The recommended cooking times help your chicken become tender without drying out.
- Sear chicken in a skillet first for extra flavor (optional).
- Layer your ingredients in the slow cooker—vegetables on the bottom, chicken on top.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours; avoid lifting the lid.
- Add peas last to keep them vibrant and tender.
These steps will help you achieve a delicious stew with tender chicken and perfectly cooked vegetables. Enjoy cooking!
Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew for Cozy Dinners
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 pounds (700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
- 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup celery, sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep plus 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the slow cooker. It’s perfect for a day of cozy cooking while you relax or work at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Searing the Chicken (Optional):
In a skillet, heat the olive or vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are browned. This adds a lovely flavor, but you can skip this step if you’re short on time.
2. Preparing the Vegetables:
In your slow cooker, layer the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, and sliced celery. This will create a tasty base for your stew.
3. Adding the Chicken:
Place the seared chicken on top of the vegetables in the slow cooker. This way, the flavors will meld together as they cook.
4. Pouring in the Broth:
Next, pour in the chicken broth. Then, sprinkle in the thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper for seasoning. Give it a gentle stir if you’d like, but make sure the chicken stays on top!
5. Cooking Time:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This slow cooking will make the chicken tender and the vegetables incredibly flavorful!
6. Adding the Peas:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the frozen peas. This keeps them nice and bright.
7. Thickening the Stew (Optional):
If you like a thicker stew, mix the flour with 1/4 cup of cold water until smooth. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker and cook on high for an additional 20-30 minutes until thickened.
8. Final Steps:
When the cooking time is up, remove the bay leaf and taste your stew. Adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
9. Garnish and Serve:
To serve, garnish your stew with fresh parsley. Enjoy it warm with crusty bread or over rice for a hearty meal that’s perfect on chilly evenings!
Enjoy your cozy, comforting slow cooker chicken stew!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! You can use frozen chicken directly in the slow cooker. Just be sure to increase the cooking time by about 1-2 hours to ensure it cooks thoroughly. There’s no need to thaw it beforehand, but keep an eye on the internal temperature to make sure it reaches 165°F (75°C).
What If I Don’t Have All the Ingredients?
No problem! You can easily substitute ingredients. For instance, if you don’t have carrots, try green beans or sweet potatoes. You can also use any broth you have on hand, including vegetable broth. The herbs are flexible too—just adjust based on your preference or what you have available!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To freeze, let the stew cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Can I Make This Stew Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! To make this recipe gluten-free, simply omit the all-purpose flour or substitute it with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch mixed with water for thickening. Always check your broth for gluten-free labeling if you’re sensitive to gluten!
