This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is perfect for cozy dinners! It’s loaded with tender chicken, tasty veggies, and flavorful herbs, all simmered to perfection.
Honestly, the best part? You just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do its magic. I love coming home to that delicious smell. It feels like a warm hug! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are my go-to for extra tenderness and flavor. But if you’re watching calories, chicken breasts work too or you could even use rotisserie chicken for a quick prep!
Vegetables: Carrots and potatoes give great texture. If you’re need to swap them, parsnips or sweet potatoes are tasty alternatives. You can also add any leftover veggies! Just make sure they’re cut to similar sizes.
Herbs: Thyme and rosemary add wonderful flavor. If you have Italian seasoning, it could replace those herbs just as well. Fresh herbs are fantastic if you have them, just use about three times more!
Chicken Broth: Homemade broth is the best, but store-bought works just fine! You can also use vegetable broth for a lighter flavor or to cater to vegetarians. Just make sure it’s low sodium if you’re watching your salt intake.
How Do I Get the Chicken to be Super Tender?
To achieve the best texture for your chicken, slow cooking is key. Make sure you cut the chicken into uniform chunks to ensure even cooking.
- Optional: Brown the chicken in a skillet first. This step adds extra flavor, but feel free to skip if you’re short on time.
- Keep the slow cooker covered and don’t lift the lid while cooking! This retains heat and moisture, making the chicken juicy.
Cooking on low for a longer time usually gives the best results, so if you can, plan ahead for that cozy dinner!
Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stew:
- 1.5 lbs (about 700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
- 4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups (480 ml) chicken broth
- 1 cup (240 ml) water
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Thickening (Optional):
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp cold water
For Cooking:
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15-20 minutes for prep time, followed by 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high for cooking. It’s perfect for setting in the morning and having a warm, hearty meal waiting for you at dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Chicken:
In a skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil or butter. If you’re using it, lightly brown the chicken pieces on all sides for about 5 minutes. This is optional but adds great flavor!
2. Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:
Transfer the browned chicken into the slow cooker. Then, add the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic. It’s like a colorful veggie party!
3. Add the Liquids and Seasonings:
Pour in the chicken broth and water, followed by the thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir gently so everything mixes together nicely.
4. Slow Cook Your Stew:
Cover the slow cooker and let it do its magic. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. When it’s done, the chicken should be super tender, and the veggies should be cooked through.
5. Add the Peas:
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the frozen peas. They add a lovely pop of color and sweetness!
6. Thicken the Stew (Optional):
If you love a thicker stew, mix the cornstarch with cold water to make a slurry. Stir that into the stew, cover, and cook on high for an additional 20-30 minutes until it thickens nice and hearty.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, don’t forget to remove the bay leaf. Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice for a cozy meal. Enjoy every delicious bite!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just be sure to increase the cooking time a bit. Cook on low for about 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. Always check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.
Can I Make This Stew Vegetarian or Vegan?
Absolutely! To make this stew vegetarian or vegan, simply replace the chicken with chickpeas or a meat substitute like tofu or tempeh. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and it will still be delicious!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, just warm them up on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. If the stew is too thick after storing, add a splash more broth or water when reheating.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! This stew is very versatile. You can add other vegetables like celery, green beans, or bell peppers. Just make sure they are cut into similar sizes for even cooking!
