Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

A hearty Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is the perfect comfort food for chilly days. This recipe brings together tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. It’s not only a simple and satisfying dish but also versatile enough for family dinners or meal prep for the week. The creamy texture is achieved without actual cream, making it a healthier choice that still delivers rich flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Simply add all your ingredients to the slow cooker and let it do the work for you.
• Flavorful and Hearty: Enjoy a delicious blend of herbs, tender chicken, and fresh vegetables in every bite.
• Versatile Meal Option: Perfect for family dinners or as leftovers; it tastes even better the next day!
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein and fiber from wholesome ingredients like chicken and veggies.
• Customizable: Feel free to add or swap in your favorite vegetables or spices based on what you have on hand.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew, having the right tools will streamline your cooking process. Here are some essential items you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for low-and-slow cooking that makes meat tender and enhances flavor.
• Large skillet: Ideal for searing the chicken before slow cooking, adding depth to the stew’s taste.
• Cutting board & Chef’s knife: Essential for safely chopping ingredients with precision.

Ingredients

A creamy chicken stew without the cream, this hearty slow cooker chicken stew recipe is perfect for a cold day.

For the Stew

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 1/2 pounds chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to season
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 large potatoes, cut into ½-inch cubes (1 pound)
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup green peas, frozen
• Black pepper, to season

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Place chicken on a cutting board, dice into 1-inch pieces, and season generously with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes until browned on all sides. You don’t need to cook it fully; just sear it to lock in juices. If your slow cooker has a removable stovetop-safe pot, you can sear directly in that.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Once seared, transfer the chicken to the slow cooker. Sprinkle in flour, thyme, rosemary, and salt. Stir until everything is well coated.

Step 4: Add Vegetables

Add garlic, onion, carrots, and potatoes to the slow cooker. Stir thoroughly to combine. Then pour in the chicken broth and add bay leaf.

Step 5: Cook Low & Slow

Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until everything is tender.

Step 6: Finish with Peas and Milk

After cooking time is up, stir in frozen peas and milk. Cook on high for an additional 10-15 minutes until peas are warmed through. Adjust thickness if needed by adding more flour or broth.

Step 7: Taste & Serve

Before serving, taste your stew and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as desired. Serve immediately or store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days or freeze for three months.

By following these steps, you’ll enjoy a delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Stew, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Slow cooker chicken stew is a hearty and comforting dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer it on its own or with accompaniments, there are plenty of options to enhance your meal.

With Crusty Bread

• Enjoy the stew with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.

Over Rice

• Serve the chicken stew over cooked rice for a filling and satisfying dish.

With a Side Salad

• Pair it with a fresh side salad to add crunch and freshness to your meal.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Perfecting your slow cooker chicken stew can elevate the dish to new heights. Here are some helpful tips:

• Use Quality Chicken: Choose fresh, high-quality chicken thighs for better flavor and tenderness.
• Sear the Meat: Browning the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker enhances flavor through caramelization.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste and adjust salt and pepper towards the end of cooking for the best flavor balance.
• Add Veggies Wisely: Incorporate vegetables that hold their shape well, like carrots and potatoes, ensuring they don’t turn mushy during cooking.
• Thicken if Needed: If your stew is too thin, use a bit more flour or cornstarch mixed with water as a thickening agent.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the stew to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps all flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Serving slow cooker chicken stew with complementary side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread
   A perfect choice for dipping into the hearty broth, garlic bread adds flavor and texture.
2. Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes complement the stew’s richness while providing extra comfort.
3. Roasted Vegetables
   A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables adds color, nutrition, and a lovely charred flavor.
4. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad offers a nutritious contrast with its nutty taste and chewy texture.
5. Steamed Green Beans
   Crisp-tender green beans add freshness and a pop of color that balances the meal.
6. Cornbread Muffins
   Slightly sweet cornbread muffins pair wonderfully with savory stew, making each bite delightful.
7. Couscous
   Fluffy couscous is easy to prepare and soaks up flavors from the stew beautifully.
8. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and brightness that complements the rich flavors of the stew.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your slow cooker chicken stew, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your stew turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the searing step: Searing the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker enhances flavor and texture. Always take a few minutes to brown the chicken for best results.
• Not seasoning adequately: Under-seasoning can lead to bland stew. Be generous with salt, pepper, and herbs throughout the cooking process.
• Overcrowding the slow cooker: Filling the slow cooker too full can prevent even cooking. Stick to recommended ingredient amounts for consistent results.
• Adding dairy too early: Adding milk or cream at the beginning can cause curdling. Wait until the last 10-15 minutes of cooking time to add dairy products.
• Neglecting to taste: Always taste your stew before serving. Adjust salt and pepper as needed for optimal flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowls, covering them loosely. Heat in short intervals, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Slow Cooker Chicken Stew?

Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is a hearty dish made by simmering chicken with vegetables and broth in a slow cooker until tender.

Can I use different vegetables in my Slow Cooker Chicken Stew?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.

How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Chicken Stew?

It generally takes about 7-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high for optimal tenderness.

Can I make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew without dairy?

Yes! You can omit dairy or substitute with plant-based alternatives like coconut milk for a creamy texture.

What can I serve with Slow Cooker Chicken Stew?

Serve this delicious stew with crusty bread, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

This slow cooker chicken stew is a comforting and versatile dish perfect for any day of the week. With its rich flavors and customizable ingredients, you can easily adapt it to suit your tastes. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a warm bowl of goodness!

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Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

A hearty Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is the ultimate comfort food for chilly days. This satisfying dish combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs, all simmered in a flavorful broth to create a creamy texture without using actual cream. Ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep, this stew is not only easy to make but also packed with nutrition.

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Ingredients

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• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 1/2 pounds chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 2 large potatoes, cubed
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup frozen green peas
• 1/2 cup milk

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Instructions

1. Season the diced chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sear the chicken until browned (about 4-5 minutes).
3. Transfer the seared chicken to the slow cooker and sprinkle in flour, thyme, rosemary, and salt; stir to coat.
4. Add garlic, onion, carrots, and potatoes to the slow cooker; mix well.
5. Pour in chicken broth and add a bay leaf.
6. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until everything is tender.
7. Stir in frozen peas and milk; cook on high for an additional 10-15 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 100mg