Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe
There is something warm and comforting about a bowl of chicken stew. It is perfect for family dinners and gatherings. This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe is easy to prepare and loaded with flavor. The best part is that you can set it in the morning and come home to a delicious meal. This hearty dish brings together tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a savory broth. Everyone will love it!
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to try cooking this chicken stew recipe. First, it is extremely easy. With a slow cooker, you can do most of the work ahead of time and then let it cook while you go about your day. Many people have busy schedules, and this stew is perfect for those who want a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Second, this recipe is very healthy. The ingredients are fresh and wholesome. The chicken provides lean protein, and the vegetables add vitamins and minerals to your diet. You can also control the salt content by using low-sodium chicken broth. This makes it a great option for anyone who is looking to eat healthier.
Lastly, this chicken stew is a crowd-pleaser. It is very filling, and the flavors work well together. Whether you are serving it to your family or guests, everyone will enjoy a bowl of this comforting stew. Plus, it makes great leftovers, so you can enjoy the tasty goodness another day!
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Making this chicken stew is simple. You will need to gather all your ingredients and follow a few easy steps. The following sections will provide you with detailed instructions to help you through the process.
Ingredients
To create this delicious slow cooker chicken stew, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 3 carrots, diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup flour (optional, for thickening)
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
These ingredients create a flavorful and hearty stew that everyone will love.
Directions
Now that you have all your ingredients, follow these simple steps to make your chicken stew:
Sear the Chicken: Begin by heating a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken to the hot skillet and sear it until it is golden brown on both sides. This step enhances the flavor and gives the chicken a nice texture. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Prepare the Slow Cooker: Take your slow cooker and load it with the seared chicken. Add the diced carrots, celery, onion, and cubed potatoes. Then, add the minced garlic and bay leaves. Mixing these ingredients will allow the flavors to combine well during cooking.
Season the Ingredients: Season the mixture with 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This will add a delicious taste to your stew. Make sure to mix all the ingredients thoroughly.
Add the Liquid: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth around the ingredients in the slow cooker. If you want a thicker stew, you can mix in 1/4 cup of flour at this point. Stir everything to make sure the flour is well combined with the broth.
Cook: Close the lid of the slow cooker and set it on Low for 6-8 hours or on High for 3-4 hours. The slow cooking will tenderize the chicken and allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Serve Hot: Once cooking is complete, serve the stew hot. You can sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a colorful garnish. Enjoy a hearty bowl of warmth!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Serving this chicken stew is simple and delightful. You can ladle the hot stew into bowls and serve it with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad. The bread is perfect for dipping in the flavorful broth. Some people also enjoy serving it with rice or noodles.
If you want to really impress your guests, offer some additional toppings like grated cheese, sour cream, or hot sauce. This way, everyone can customize their bowl to their liking.
Don’t forget to offer extra parsley as a garnish, as it adds a nice touch and freshness to the dish.
How to Store Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Storing leftover chicken stew is easy. Allow the stew to cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. Keep the stew in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
You can also freeze the stew for longer storage. Just pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top since liquids expand when frozen. The stew will last in the freezer for about 2-3 months. When ready to eat, defrost the stew in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until hot.
Tips to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Choosing the Chicken: While you can use either chicken thighs or breasts, thighs usually provide more flavor and remain tender during cooking.
Mixing Vegetables: You can add other vegetables too! Try adding green beans, peas, or bell peppers for additional colors and textures.
Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, consider adding some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the stew a kick.
Thickness Options: If you prefer a thicker stew, you can let it cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes to reduce the broth. Alternatively, a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) can also help thicken the sauce.
Variation
Feel free to experiment with this recipe! You can make it a chicken and dumpling stew by adding biscuit dough on top of the stew in the last hour of cooking. This creates fluffy dumplings that soak up the rich broth.
Another option is to create a creamy version by adding a cup of heavy cream or coconut milk about half an hour before the cooking time ends. This will make the stew rich and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. However, it may take longer to cook. Be sure to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F before serving.
Is this stew gluten-free?
This recipe includes flour for thickening, which contains gluten. You can omit the flour and use a gluten-free thickener if you want a gluten-free version.
Can I add beans to the stew?
Absolutely! Adding canned beans like navy beans or cannellini beans in the last hour of cooking will enhance the protein and fiber content of the stew.
Now you have all the information needed to make a delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Stew. Enjoy this comforting meal with family and friends!
Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Ingredients
Method
- Sear the Chicken: Begin by heating a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken to the hot skillet and sear it until golden brown on both sides. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Load the slow cooker with the seared chicken, diced carrots, diced celery, cubed potatoes, minced garlic, and bay leaves. Mix the ingredients well.
- Season the Ingredients: Add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper to the mixture.
- Add the Liquid: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and mix in 1/4 cup of flour if you want a thicker stew. Stir everything well.
- Close the lid of the slow cooker and set it on Low for 6-8 hours or on High for 3-4 hours.
- Once cooking is complete, serve the stew hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley. Enjoy with crusty bread or a simple green salad.