Introduction

When the weather cools down or you’re craving a cozy meal, nothing satisfies like a warm bowl of Slow Cooker Chicken Stew. This classic recipe combines tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a savory broth to create a dish that’s not only nutritious but also incredibly satisfying. Slow-cooked meals like this one allow you to set it and forget it, making it an ideal choice for busy families or anyone looking for a fuss-free dinner option.

If you’re new to slow cooking or looking to elevate your skills, recipes like Vegetable Soup Recipe.

Why Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is a Must-Try Dish

1. A Wholesome, Balanced Meal

Slow Cooker Chicken Stew checks all the boxes for a balanced meal: lean protein from chicken, complex carbs from potatoes, and fiber-rich vegetables like carrots and celery. It’s a one-pot wonder that satisfies both the body and soul.

2. Ideal for Meal Prep

Like other slow-cooked dishes such as Tuscan White Bean Soup, this stew stores beautifully. It’s a fantastic make-ahead meal that reheats well, perfect for leftovers or weekly meal planning.

3. Versatile and Customizable

From switching up the protein to adding seasonal vegetables, Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is endlessly adaptable. Want a spicy kick? Add chili flakes. Prefer a thicker broth? Use more cornstarch. You’re the boss in your kitchen!

Ingredients for a Flavorful Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this hearty masterpiece:

Protein

Chicken: 3–4 lbs of bone-in or boneless chicken breasts or thighs. Bone-in chicken adds more flavor to the broth, but boneless is easier to shred.

Vegetables

Carrots: 4 medium, peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces.
Potatoes: 2 medium, diced (russet for starchier results, or sweet potatoes for a nutrient boost).
Celery: 3 stalks, chopped.
Onions: 2 sweet onions, diced.
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced or pressed.

Broth and Seasonings

Chicken Broth: 3 cups of low-sodium chicken broth or stock.
Spices:
- 1 teaspoon each of thyme and rosemary.
- ½ teaspoon paprika for a warm, smoky note.
- 1 bay leaf for depth.
- Salt and black pepper to taste.

Optional Add-Ins

Fresh mushrooms, frozen peas, or corn can add variety.
For a creamy texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end.

Thickener

Cornstarch Slurry: Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Peel and chop vegetables into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
If using bone-in chicken, remove the skin for a leaner stew.

2. Layer the Ingredients

Base Layer: Place potatoes, carrots, celery, and onions at the bottom of your slow cooker.
Top Layer: Add the chicken pieces, seasoning them generously with salt and pepper.
Pour chicken broth over the ingredients, ensuring everything is submerged.

3. Add Seasonings

Sprinkle thyme, rosemary, paprika, and add the bay leaf. These herbs will infuse the stew with rich, earthy flavors.

4. Set the Slow Cooker

Cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours. Bone-in chicken may need slightly longer to become tender.

5. Thicken the Stew

About 30 minutes before serving, remove the chicken and shred it using two forks.
Return the shredded chicken to the pot, stir in the cornstarch slurry, and cook uncovered on HIGH for 30 minutes to thicken the broth.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the stew into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with crusty bread or warm biscuits for dipping.

Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh Herbs

Fresh thyme and rosemary elevate the dish’s flavor profile. If unavailable, dried herbs work well too—just use half the amount as they’re more concentrated.

2. Avoid Overcooking Vegetables

Cut vegetables into larger chunks to prevent them from becoming mushy during the long cooking time.

3. Adjust Broth Consistency

For a thinner stew, add more chicken broth. For a thicker texture, increase the amount of cornstarch in the slurry.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing Slow Cooker Chicken Stew with complementary sides takes it to the next level. Here are some ideas:

Bread: Serve with crusty rolls, garlic bread, or flaky buttermilk biscuits.
Salads: A fresh green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the stew.
Toppings: Sprinkle grated parmesan, chili flakes, or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor.

Variations to Try

Gluten-Free

Use arrowroot powder instead of cornstarch for thickening. Ensure your broth is labeled gluten-free.

Low-Carb

Replace potatoes with cauliflower florets or diced turnips for a keto-friendly version.

Vegetarian

Swap chicken for chickpeas or white beans. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a hearty, plant-based alternative.

Spicy

Add ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce for a stew with a kick.

Nutritional Benefits of Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

High in Protein

Chicken provides lean, high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health.

Rich in Fiber

The vegetables in this stew are loaded with dietary fiber, promoting digestion and satiety.

Low in Fat

Using skinless chicken and a moderate amount of broth keeps the dish low in fat, making it a heart-healthy choice.

FAQs About Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Can I Use Frozen Chicken?

It’s not recommended to use frozen chicken in a slow cooker as it may not reach a safe temperature quickly enough. Always thaw chicken before cooking.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store the stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of broth to refresh the texture.

What’s the Best Way to Reheat This Stew?

For best results, reheat the stew on low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. Add a bit of broth if it appears too thick.

Can I Make This Dish in Advance?

Absolutely! Prep the ingredients the night before and store them in the refrigerator. In the morning, transfer everything to the slow cooker and start cooking.

Advanced Tips and Tricks

Sauté for More Flavor

Sautéing onions and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker can deepen the overall flavor.

Add Greens at the End

For a pop of color and nutrition, stir in spinach or kale during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

Experiment with Broth Bases

Try using bone broth for added nutrients or mix chicken and vegetable broths for a unique taste.

Other Slow Cooker Recipes You’ll Love

Expand your slow-cooked meal collection with these comforting dishes:

Spicy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup: A sweet and spicy vegan delight.
Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup: A light, refreshing soup perfect for spring.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is the ultimate comfort food, combining simplicity, nutrition, and unbeatable flavor. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, hosting a casual dinner, or simply craving something warm and hearty, this recipe has you covered. Don’t be afraid to experiment—add your favorite vegetables, adjust the seasonings, and make it uniquely yours.

Try this recipe today and discover why slow-cooked meals are a timeless favorite. While you’re at it, explore related dishes like Vegetable Soup Recipe and Tuscan White Bean Soup for more culinary inspiration!

Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Author: aiden rodman
Total Time: 6hours 15minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Description

This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a savory broth. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this recipe is easy to customize and guarantees delicious results every time. Whether you prefer classic ingredients or want to add your twist, this hearty dish will warm your soul and satisfy your cravings. Serve it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal your family will love!

Ingredients

Scale

1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 medium onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup frozen peas
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1 bay leaf
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken chunks and season with salt and pepper. Brown the chicken on all sides (about 5 minutes). Transfer the chicken to the slow cooker.
In the same skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant (about 2 minutes). Add the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Transfer this mixture to the slow cooker.
Add the potatoes, carrots, celery, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf to the slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine.
Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender and the chicken is cooked through.
If you prefer a thicker stew, whisk the flour with a few tablespoons of the hot stew liquid in a small bowl to form a slurry. Stir it into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Add the frozen peas during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
Remove the bay leaf and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Pair with crusty bread for a hearty meal.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Category: Dinner
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2cups
Calories: 340kcal
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 451mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0.01g
Carbohydrates: 43g
Fiber: 6g
Protein: 24g
Cholesterol: 85mg