Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is the ultimate comfort food for chilly days. This hearty and creamy chicken stew is made without cream, making it a healthier option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, it fills your home with warm, inviting aromas. With its tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and rich broth, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Stew:
• Vegetables:
• Broth:
• Final Touches:
• How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
• Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
• Step 2: Transfer to Slow Cooker
• Step 3: Add Vegetables
• Step 4: Cooking Process
• Step 5: Final Touches
• Step 6: Serve
• How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
• With Crusty Bread
• Over Rice
• Topped with Fresh Herbs
• With a Side Salad
• How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
• Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
• Reheating Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
• How do I thicken my Slow Cooker Chicken Stew?
• What sides pair well with Slow Cooker Chicken Stew?
• Can I add more vegetables?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Simply toss the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it do the work while you go about your day.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of herbs and seared chicken creates a depth of flavor that’s irresistible.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables or different cuts of chicken based on your preferences.
• Healthy Comfort Food: Enjoy a creamy texture without any heavy cream, making it lighter yet satisfying.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week—it stores well in both the fridge and freezer.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: The heart of this recipe, it allows for hands-off cooking while developing rich flavors over time.
• Large skillet: Ideal for searing the chicken to lock in moisture before slow cooking.
• Cutting board & Knife: Essential for preparing your ingredients quickly and safely.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Help you accurately measure ingredients for balanced flavors.

Ingredients

A hearty and creamy chicken stew without the use of cream, this comforting slow cooker recipe is perfect for chilly days.

For the Stew:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 ½ pounds chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• ½ teaspoon salt, plus more to season

Vegetables:

• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 large potatoes, cut into ½-inch cubes (1 pound)

Broth:

• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 bay leaf

Final Touches:

• ½ cup milk
• 1 cup frozen green peas
• Black pepper, to season

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Dice the chicken thighs into 1-inch pieces and season generously with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and sear for 4-5 minutes until browned on all sides. You don’t need to cook the chicken through—just sear to lock in the juices.

Step 2: Transfer to Slow Cooker

Transfer the seared chicken to the slow cooker. Sprinkle with flour, thyme, rosemary, and ½ teaspoon salt. Stir to coat the chicken evenly in the flour and herbs.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Add garlic, onion, carrots, and potatoes to the slow cooker. Stir everything together until combined. Pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaf.

Step 4: Cooking Process

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Step 5: Final Touches

Once cooking is complete, stir in frozen peas and milk. Cook on high for an additional 10-15 minutes until peas are warmed through. If needed, adjust thickness by adding more broth or whisking in extra flour.

Step 6: Serve

Taste your Slow Cooker Chicken Stew before serving. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately or store leftovers properly!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Serving Slow Cooker Chicken Stew can elevate its comforting flavors and enhance the dining experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to complement your hearty stew.

With Crusty Bread

• Sourdough Bread: The tangy flavor pairs well with the richness of the stew.
• Baguette: Perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop.
• Garlic Bread: Adds a flavorful kick that complements the stew’s ingredients.

Over Rice

• White Rice: A classic choice, absorbs the stew’s flavors beautifully.
• Brown Rice: Offers a nutty taste and adds extra fiber.
• Wild Rice: Provides a unique texture and earthy flavor that enhances the dish.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Parsley: Chopped parsley adds freshness and color.
• Thyme: A sprinkle of fresh thyme can deepen the herbaceous notes of the stew.
• Chives: Finely chopped chives give a mild onion flavor that brightens each bite.

With a Side Salad

• Caesar Salad: The creaminess balances out the heartiness of the stew.
• Garden Salad: Fresh greens add a crunchy contrast to the creamy stew.
• Coleslaw: Provides a tangy crunch that pairs perfectly with warm, rich flavors.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Achieving the best Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is all about attention to detail and techniques. Here are some tips to ensure your dish is perfect every time.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken enhance flavor significantly.
• Sear Chicken First: Searing locks in juices, adding depth to your stew without using cream.
• Adjust Liquid Levels: If too thick, add broth; if too thin, whisk in flour for thickness.
• Layer Ingredients Wisely: Place tougher vegetables like potatoes at the bottom for even cooking.
• Season Throughout Cooking: Taste and adjust seasoning at different stages for balanced flavor.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the stew to sit after cooking helps meld flavors together.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Chicken Stew can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options that will complement your dish beautifully.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes seasoned with garlic make an excellent base for your stew.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, they add great texture.
3. Cornbread Muffins: Slightly sweet, these muffins offer a delightful contrast to savory flavors.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli brings color and nutrients to your plate.
5. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing mix of quinoa, veggies, and vinaigrette adds brightness alongside rich stew.
6. Buttered Noodles: Simple yet satisfying, noodles provide a comforting element to soak up sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Slow Cooker Chicken Stew, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your dish’s flavor and texture.

• Skipping the Searing: Not searing the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker can result in a less flavorful stew. Always brown the chicken for added depth.
• Overloading the Slow Cooker: Filling the slow cooker beyond its capacity can lead to uneven cooking. Stick to the recommended amounts for best results.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Failing to season your ingredients properly can make your stew bland. Season throughout the cooking process, not just at the beginning.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold ingredients directly into a hot slow cooker may alter cooking times. Allow ingredients like broth or milk to come to room temperature first.
• Ignoring Texture: If you prefer a thicker stew, don’t forget to adjust with flour or cornstarch towards the end of cooking. Monitor consistency for desired thickness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 5 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
• Best used within 3 months for peak quality.

Reheating Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place stew in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer portions to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Slow Cooker Chicken Stew.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for thighs if you prefer leaner meat. Just adjust cooking time as needed since breasts cook faster.

How do I thicken my Slow Cooker Chicken Stew?

To thicken your stew, whisk in a bit of flour or cornstarch mixed with water towards the end of cooking. This will help achieve your desired consistency.

What sides pair well with Slow Cooker Chicken Stew?

This hearty stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or over cooked rice, enhancing your meal experience with wholesome sides.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to include additional vegetables like bell peppers or green beans for more flavor and nutrition in your Slow Cooker Chicken Stew.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is not only hearty and comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with different vegetables and seasonings based on personal preferences or what you have on hand. Give it a try for a cozy meal that warms both body and soul!