Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is the epitome of comfort food, bringing warmth and heartiness to your dinner table with minimal effort. This delightful dish features tender chicken simmered with an array of vibrant vegetables, aromatic herbs, and a savory broth that melds together beautifully over hours of cooking. The slow cooker allows the flavors to develop deeply while you go about your day, making it ideal for busy families or anyone looking for an easy, satisfying meal.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is not only full of robust flavors, but it also makes for a hassle-free cooking experience. With just a little prep time, you can let your slow cooker do the heavy lifting, resulting in a dish that’s rich in taste and nutrition. The combination of tender chicken, root vegetables, and aromatic herbs creates a comforting meal perfect for any day of the week. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and can be adjusted to fit various dietary preferences, making it a versatile option for families and gatherings.
Tips and Tricks
- Prep Ahead: Chop your vegetables the night before and store them in the fridge to save time in the morning.
- Layering for Flavor: Place root vegetables at the bottom of the slow cooker, as they take longer to cook, and layer the chicken on top to ensure even cooking.
- Thicken the Stew: If you prefer a thicker stew, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it in during the last hour of cooking.
- Seasoning: Don’t be shy with herbs! Fresh thyme and rosemary can elevate the dish, but dried herbs work just as well for convenience.
Make Ahead Tips
This stew can be prepped in advance for busy weeknights. Chop your vegetables and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. You can also marinate the chicken in the broth and seasonings overnight for added flavor. Once cooked, the stew can be kept in the fridge for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetable Swap: Feel free to use seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. You can also add leafy greens like kale or spinach in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to give your stew a spicy twist.
- Herb Changes: Experiment with different herbs such as oregano or basil for a unique flavor profile.
How to Serve
Serve your Slow Cooker Chicken Stew in deep bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color. Pair it with crusty bread for dipping or over a bed of fluffy rice to soak up the delicious broth.
Pairing Suggestions
This hearty stew pairs wonderfully with a glass of light red wine, such as Pinot Noir or a refreshing white like Sauvignon Blanc. For a non-alcoholic option, a warm apple cider or herbal tea complements the flavors beautifully. A simple green salad or garlic bread makes for perfect side dishes to round out the meal.
How to Store
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers. It will last in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
Equipment Needed
- Slow cooker (a 6-quart size is ideal)
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowl for seasoning
If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can replicate this recipe in a Dutch oven or stovetop pot; simply adjust the cooking time and keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
Dietary Adaptations
For a vegan version, substitute chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms and add chickpeas for protein. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. To make it gluten-free, ensure all broths and seasonings used are labeled gluten-free.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the spring and summer, swap out root vegetables for lighter vegetables like peas, asparagus, or fresh green beans. In the fall and winter, stick with hearty root vegetables such as sweet potatoes, carrots, and parsnips for a cozy dish.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, you can use frozen chicken; just increase the cooking time by an hour or so.
- How can I make it more flavorful? Consider adding a splash of white wine or a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce for depth.
- Can I double the recipe? Absolutely! Just ensure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the increased volume.
How To Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is the epitome of comfort food, bringing warmth and heartiness to your dinner table with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 4 medium carrots, chopped
- 3 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil (optional)
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional, for added color)
Instructions
- Chop all vegetables and set aside.
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Transfer to the slow cooker.
- Place the chopped onions, carrots, potatoes, and celery in the slow cooker on top of the chicken.
- Sprinkle minced garlic over the veggies, then pour the chicken broth into the slow cooker.
- Set the slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- If using, stir in the frozen peas during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, then ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs.
Nutrition Information
Yield
6Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 423Total Fat 17gSaturated Fat 4gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 12gCholesterol 188mgSodium 993mgCarbohydrates 28gFiber 5gSugar 5gProtein 42g
dinnerbytes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although dinnerbytes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is a delightful dish that invites warmth and comfort into your home. The ease of preparation and the satisfying flavors make it a perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you are enjoying it on a chilly night or sharing it with loved ones, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. So, dust off that slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and embrace the delightful aromas that will fill your kitchen as this hearty stew cooks to perfection!
