Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe
If you’re longing for a hearty, wholesome meal that practically cooks itself, this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is guaranteed to earn a permanent spot in your weekly rotation. With its tender chunks of chicken, perfectly cooked vegetables, and comforting aroma, it’s the ultimate one-pot wonder for busy families and cozy evenings alike. Every spoonful is brimming with classic flavors, soul-warming broth, and just the right balance of herbs, making this the stew you’ll crave all year round!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew lies in its simplicity—every ingredient contributes something special, from building rich, savory flavor to creating a medley of textures and gorgeous color. Gather these kitchen staples and you’ll be minutes away from letting your slow cooker work its magic.
- Chicken (1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless breasts or thighs): Tender protein that soaks up all the savory goodness; thighs add richness and breasts keep it lean.
- Carrots (3 medium, peeled and sliced): Sweetness and bright orange color that contrasts beautifully with the broth.
- Potatoes (3 medium, peeled and diced): Hearty, comforting, and a perfect way to thicken the stew naturally as they cook.
- Celery (2 stalks, sliced): Fresh flavor and crunch that rounds out the classic stew vibe.
- Onion (1 medium, chopped): A flavor base that adds gentle sweetness and depth.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): For unmistakeable savory aroma and warmth in every bite.
- Chicken broth (3 cups): Your aromatic bath for all the ingredients—choose low sodium if you prefer more control over saltiness.
- Dried thyme (1 teaspoon): Earthy, herbal notes that pair beautifully with chicken.
- Dried parsley (1 teaspoon): Adds freshness and a pop of green throughout the stew.
- Paprika (½ teaspoon): For a subtle smoky color and hint of spice.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for seasoning and drawing out all the flavors.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): A touch of heat and mild sharpness to balance the richness.
- Cornstarch (2 tablespoons): Mixed with water, it creates the magical thickener for a perfectly textured stew.
- Water (2 tablespoons): Blends with the cornstarch for that silky finish.
- Frozen peas (1 cup): Added at the end for sweetness and lovely pops of green.
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Sprinkle on top for color and fresh garden aroma.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Step 1: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Gather all your prepped ingredients and add the chicken, carrots, potatoes, celery, onion, garlic, chicken broth, thyme, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper directly into the slow cooker. Give everything a good stir so that the veggies and seasoning are distributed evenly around the chicken—this is where the flavor-building begins!
Step 2: Let the Slow Cooker Work Its Magic
Pop the lid on your slow cooker, set it to low for 6–7 hours (or high for 3–4 hours if you’re in a rush), and embrace the beauty of hands-off cooking. During this time, the chicken becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender and the vegetables soften into savory perfection. There’s nothing better than coming home to the scent of Slow Cooker Chicken Stew simmering away!
Step 3: Thicken and Finish with Peas
About 15 minutes before you’re ready to serve, whisk the cornstarch and water together in a small bowl to create a smooth slurry. Pour this into the stew along with the frozen peas, then give it a good gently stir. Cover and cook for 10–15 more minutes. This quick step thickens everything up just right and the peas stay bright and snappy.
Step 4: Serve and Savor
Dish up the Slow Cooker Chicken Stew into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if you like! This last step might be optional but that hint of green makes the meal look restaurant-worthy and adds an irresistible garden-fresh aroma.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Garnishes
A handful of chopped fresh parsley amps up the color and gives the stew a burst of herby freshness. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or even a dollop of sour cream on top adds delightful richness. You can also use a little cracked black pepper or a sprinkle of chili flakes if you want just a touch of heat.
Side Dishes
Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is satisfying on its own but absolutely shines served with crusty bread for dunking. Warm dinner rolls, flaky biscuits, or even fluffy white rice soak up every bit of savory broth. Add a crisp green salad for a lighter counterpoint or keep it rustic with a side of garlic toast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun, unexpected twist, ladle your stew into hollowed-out bread bowls for a cozy bistro vibe. Try topping small portions with puff pastry rounds for a stew-inspired pot pie. Or spoon servings into oversized coffee mugs for grab-and-go comfort—perfect for movie nights or casual gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Slow Cooker Chicken Stew in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors meld and deepen overnight, so you may find it tastes even better the next day. Make sure to cool the stew to room temperature before sealing it for freshness.
Freezing
For longer storage, portion the cooled Slow Cooker Chicken Stew into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space at the top for expansion. It keeps well for up to 3 months and is a lifesaver for busy weeks or unexpected guests. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Gently reheat your stew on the stovetop over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot. If using the microwave, cover and stir halfway through to distribute heat evenly. Add a splash of extra broth if needed to revive the perfect consistency.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs add a bit more richness and are less likely to dry out, but boneless, skinless breasts work just as well for a lighter stew. Feel free to use whichever you prefer or have on hand.
Is it possible to make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew dairy-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally dairy-free as written. If you’re tempted to add a splash of cream at the end for extra richness, try coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative for the same effect.
Can I add different vegetables?
Definitely! This stew is wonderfully adaptable—try adding chopped bell peppers, parsnips, green beans, or sweet potatoes. Just be mindful that softer veggies can be added later in the cooking process to prevent mushiness.
How can I make the stew thicker?
The cornstarch slurry does an excellent job of thickening the stew, but if you want it even heartier, you can remove 1–2 cups of potatoes, mash them, and stir them back in. Alternatively, let the stew simmer uncovered for a few minutes after removing the lid.
What if I don’t have a slow cooker?
No problem! You can make this stew on the stovetop. Just simmer everything in a large pot over low heat until the chicken and vegetables are tender—usually 1 to 1.5 hours. The flavors will still meld beautifully.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so satisfying about coming home to a bubbling pot of Slow Cooker Chicken Stew—warming, nourishing, and impossibly easy. If you try it once, I guarantee you’ll want to make it again and again. Give yourself (and your loved ones) the comfort of a meal that truly loves you back!
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Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes (low) or 3 hours 15 minutes (high)
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and savory herbs, this stew is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
Chicken Stew:
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 cup frozen peas
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Place the chicken, carrots, potatoes, celery, onion, garlic, chicken broth, thyme, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper into a slow cooker. Stir to combine.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
- Add Thickening: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the stew along with the frozen peas. Cook for another 10–15 minutes, or until the stew thickens slightly and the peas are heated through.
- Serve: Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- For extra flavor, sear the chicken in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker.
- You can also add a splash of cream at the end for a richer stew.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours (low) or 3 hours (high)
- Category: Main Course, Stew
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: about 2 cups
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 680 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
