Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

A creamy chicken stew without the cream, this hearty slow cooker chicken stew recipe is perfect for a cold day. It’s simple to prepare and allows the rich flavors to meld together while you go about your day. Whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy night in, this dish will warm you up and satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation – Just toss the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it do the work for you.
• Full of Flavor – The combination of herbs, garlic, and vegetables creates a deliciously savory taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Dish – Perfect as a comforting dinner on chilly evenings or as a leftover lunch throughout the week.
• Nutritious Ingredients – Packed with protein from chicken and loaded with vitamins from fresh vegetables, this stew is both hearty and healthy.
• Family-Friendly – A meal that appeals to all ages, making it great for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious slow cooker chicken stew, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker – The star of this recipe! It allows for hands-off cooking while developing deep flavors over time.
• Large skillet – Ideal for searing the chicken, which enhances its flavor before adding it to the slow cooker.
• Cutting board – Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and preparing the chicken.
• Sharp knife – Ensures precise cuts for even cooking and easier handling of ingredients.

Ingredients

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

For the Stew Base

• 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

For the Vegetables

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

For Cooking

• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 bay leaf

For Creaminess

• 1/2 cup milk

For Finishing Touches

• 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:
1. Warm the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet.
3. Cook for 4-5 minutes until browned on all sides but not fully cooked.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Once the chicken is seared:
1. Transfer it to the slow cooker.
2. Add flour, thyme, rosemary, and salt; stir until coated.
3. Add garlic, onion, carrots, and potatoes; mix well.
4. Pour in chicken broth and add bay leaf.

Step 4: Cook the Stew

Cover your slow cooker:
– Cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Step 5: Finish with Peas and Milk

After cooking:
1. Stir in frozen peas and milk.
2. Cook on high for an additional 10-15 minutes until peas are warmed through.

Step 6: Adjust Seasoning & Serve

Taste your stew:
– Adjust salt and pepper as needed before serving hot.

This slow cooker chicken stew is not just easy to make but also provides comfort during those colder days. Enjoy!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Slow cooker chicken stew is a comforting dish that warms the heart and fills the belly. Here are some delightful ways to serve this hearty meal.

With Crusty Bread

• Freshly baked crusty bread pairs beautifully, allowing you to soak up every last bit of the savory broth.

Over Rice

• Serving the stew over fluffy rice adds a wonderful texture and makes it even more filling.

With a Side Salad

• A light side salad with crisp greens balances the richness of the stew, providing a refreshing contrast.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnishing with chopped parsley or cilantro adds brightness and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

To achieve the best flavors in your slow cooker chicken stew, follow these helpful tips.

• Use quality chicken: Selecting fresh or high-quality chicken thighs will enhance the taste and texture of your stew.

• Brown the chicken: Searing the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker develops deeper flavors that elevate your dish.

• Adjust seasoning: Taste your stew before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed for optimal flavor.

• Add vegetables wisely: Adding heartier vegetables like potatoes and carrots ensures they cook evenly throughout the longer cooking time.

• Thicken as desired: If you prefer a thicker stew, mix in additional flour or cornstarch towards the end of cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Pairing side dishes with your slow cooker chicken stew can create a well-rounded meal. Consider these options:

1. Garlic Bread – The buttery, garlicky flavor complements the stew nicely.
2. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrients to your plate.
3. Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes provide an indulgent base that works well with stews.
4. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad offers a healthy, nutty contrast to the rich stew.
5. Steamed Green Beans – Crisp-tender green beans bring freshness and crunch alongside the hearty dish.
6. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, balancing out the richness of the stew.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Chicken Stew, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Overcrowding the slow cooker: Adding too many ingredients can prevent even cooking. Stick to the recipe for best results.
• Skipping the browning step: Searing chicken adds flavor. Don’t skip this step; it enhances the overall taste of your stew.
• Not seasoning properly: Under-seasoning can result in bland flavors. Make sure to taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving.
• Ignoring the cooking times: Cooking on low for a shorter time can affect texture and flavor. Follow suggested times for optimal results.
• Using frozen instead of fresh vegetables: Fresh veggies often provide better texture and flavor in your stew. Use fresh when possible.
• Neglecting to adjust for thickness: If your stew is too thin, add flour or broth as needed to achieve desired consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Allow stew to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave space for expansion if using containers.

Reheating Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place stew in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat until warm.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute increments until heated through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Slow Cooker Chicken Stew.

Can I use other meats in Slow Cooker Chicken Stew?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with beef or turkey according to your preference. Adjust cooking times as necessary.

How do I thicken my Slow Cooker Chicken Stew?

To thicken your stew, mix a little flour with water or broth and stir it into the stew during the last cooking phase.

What vegetables work well in this slow cooker chicken stew?

Carrots, potatoes, onions, and peas are great options. You can also add bell peppers or green beans for variety.

Can I make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator before cooking it the next day.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is perfect for cozy evenings and can be customized with your favorite vegetables or spices. It’s comforting, hearty, and easy to prepare—making it an ideal choice for family dinners. Give it a try!