Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe

Introduction
Few dishes can rival the cozy warmth of a hearty chicken stew, especially when it’s made effortlessly in a slow cooker. This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is loaded with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth that develops as it simmers all day. Perfect for busy weekdays or lazy weekends, this recipe requires minimal prep and delivers maximum comfort. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, this stew is sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

For the Stew:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
• 3 medium potatoes, diced (Yukon gold or red potatoes work well)
• 2 medium carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 cups chicken broth (low-sodium recommended)
• 1 cup frozen peas (added at the end)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste (optional, for added depth)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Thickener:

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 3 tablespoons cold water (optional)

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Crusty bread or biscuits for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Chop all the vegetables and cut the chicken into chunks.
2. Mince the garlic and gather your spices to make assembly easy.

Step 2: Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker

1. Layer the diced potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker.
2. Add the chicken chunks on top of the vegetables.
3. Sprinkle the thyme, rosemary, smoked paprika (if using), and salt and pepper over the chicken.
4. Add the tomato paste, bay leaf, and chicken broth. Stir gently to combine.

Step 3: Slow Cook

1. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.

Step 4: Thicken the Stew (Optional)

1. If you prefer a thicker stew, stir in the cornstarch slurry during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Let it simmer until the broth thickens slightly.

Step 5: Add Peas and Adjust Seasoning

1. Stir in the frozen peas during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
2. Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

1. Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
2. Serve with crusty bread, biscuits, or a side salad for a complete meal.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Suggestions:

• Pair the stew with buttery biscuits, garlic bread, or cornbread for a satisfying meal.
• Add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra indulgence.

Storage:

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Freezer: Freeze the stew in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Helpful Notes

• Chicken Options: Boneless chicken thighs are more flavorful and tender, but chicken breasts work well for a leaner stew.
• Vegetable Variations: Add parsnips, turnips, green beans, or mushrooms for extra variety.
• Make It Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end of cooking for a creamier texture.
• Add Grains: For a heartier dish, stir in cooked rice, barley, or quinoa just before serving.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

• Chef Ina Garten: Use fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme as a garnish for a pop of flavor and color.
• Chef Gordon Ramsay: Browning the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker can add a deeper, caramelized flavor.
• Chef Jamie Oliver: Adding a splash of white wine to the broth at the start enhances the stew’s depth and richness.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I need to brown the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker?

Browning is optional but adds a layer of flavor. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step without compromising the stew’s taste.

2. Can I make this stew gluten-free?

Yes! Use cornstarch or arrowroot powder for thickening instead of flour. Ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free.

3. Can I use frozen chicken?

It’s best to thaw chicken before adding it to the slow cooker to ensure even cooking and proper seasoning.

4. Can I make this stew vegetarian?

Yes! Replace the chicken with chickpeas, white beans, or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

5. How do I make this stew spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or diced jalapeño for a kick of heat.

6. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat the stew gently on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick.

7. Can I cook this on the stovetop instead?

Yes! Simmer the stew in a large pot over low heat for about 1–2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the chicken and vegetables are tender.

8. How can I make the stew richer in flavor?

Adding a splash of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, or balsamic vinegar can deepen the flavor profile.

9. Can I add pasta to the stew?

Yes! Add cooked pasta during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a chicken noodle-style twist.

10. Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely. Just ensure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the extra ingredients.