Craving a bowl of warmth and deliciousness that practically cooks itself? Look no further! This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a comforting, hearty meal packed with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a flavor that will have you coming back for seconds (and maybe thirds!).
What is Slow Cooker Chicken Stew?
Have you ever wondered how certain dishes get their names? Slow Cooker Chicken Stew… it kind of says it all, doesn’t it? But where did the idea of stewing chicken originate? Was it a resourceful cook trying to make the most of leftover chicken, or a culinary genius seeking to create the ultimate comfort food? Who knows!
Perhaps it was simply someone following that timeless piece of wisdom: “the way to a man’s (or woman’s!) heart is through their stomach.” Whatever its origin, the concept is genius and the result is fantastic. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your slow cooker and let’s get started! You’ll be thanking me later.
Key Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken Stew:
Here’s a visual of all the glorious ingredients you’ll need to embark on this culinary adventure:
Here’s the complete ingredient list with specific quantities:
- Chicken: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes)
- Potatoes: 2 lbs Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- Carrots: 1 lb carrots, peeled and sliced
- Celery: 3 stalks celery, chopped
- Onion: 1 large yellow onion, chopped
- Garlic: 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Chicken Broth: 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- Dried Thyme: 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Dried Rosemary: 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Bay Leaf: 1 bay leaf
- Salt: 1 teaspoon (or to taste)
- Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon (or to taste)
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon
- Optional: 1/2 cup frozen peas (added during the last 30 minutes of cooking)
- Optional: 1/4 cup heavy cream or milk (added at the end for extra creaminess)
- Optional Garnishes: Fresh parsley, crusty bread
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew:
This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is a recipe that is simultaneously simple and flavorful, making it perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners. It requires minimal prep time but delivers a depth of flavor that tastes like you’ve been slaving away in the kitchen all day! It’s packed with tender chicken and vegetables in a savory broth. The prep time is around 15 minutes, and the slow cooker does the rest!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Sear the Chicken (Optional but Recommended)
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken cubes in batches until browned on all sides. This step adds extra flavor and texture. (If you’re short on time, you can skip this step and add the chicken directly to the slow cooker, but browning it beforehand will enhance the flavor).
Step 2: Prep the Vegetables
While the chicken is searing (or while you are skipping directly to Step 3), chop the onion, carrots, and celery. Mince the garlic. Peel and cube the potatoes.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Place the seared chicken (or raw chicken) in the slow cooker. Add the chopped onions, carrots, celery, minced garlic, and cubed potatoes.
Step 4: Add Broth and Seasonings
Pour the chicken broth into the slow cooker, ensuring the chicken and vegetables are mostly covered. Add the tomato paste, dried thyme, dried rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
Step 5: Cook on Low or High
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Step 6: Add Optional Ingredients (Last 30 Minutes)
If using frozen peas, add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Step 7: Optional Creaminess & Remove Bay Leaf
Remove the bay leaf. If desired, stir in heavy cream or milk for a creamier stew before serving.
Step 8: Serve and Garnish
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and a side of crusty bread for dipping.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew:
The best part about this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is, without a doubt, how incredibly easy it is to make. Simply toss everything into the slow cooker, set it, and forget it! Plus, making it at home significantly cuts down on costs compared to ordering stew at a restaurant. You can control the ingredients and portion sizes, making it a budget-friendly and healthy option.
And the earthy herbs add a complexity to the chicken and vegetable flavor that simply sings! If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you might also like my slow cooker lentil soup. Give this slow cooker chicken stew a try – you’ll wonder why you hadn’t made it sooner!
What to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Stew With:
To complement this hearty stew, consider serving it with:
- Crusty Bread: Essential for soaking up all that delicious broth.
- A Simple Salad: A light and refreshing green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a nice contrast.
- Buttered Rolls: Warm, soft rolls are always a welcome addition.
- Mashed Potatoes or Rice: For an even more substantial meal, serve over mashed potatoes or rice.
- Steamed Green Beans: A healthy and vibrant side dish.
Top Tips for Perfecting Slow Cooker Chicken Stew:
- Sear the Chicken: As mentioned earlier, searing the chicken adds a depth of flavor that’s worth the extra step.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Slow Cooker: Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking. If needed, cook in batches.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the stew towards the end of cooking and adjust the salt, pepper, and herbs to your liking.
- Use Bone-In Chicken: For an even richer broth, use bone-in chicken pieces. Just be sure to remove the bones before serving.
- Vegetable Variation: Feel free to add other vegetables like parsnips, turnips, or sweet potatoes.
Storing and Reheating Tips:
Storing: Leftover Slow Cooker Chicken Stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: To reheat, simply warm the stew in a saucepan over medium heat until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave. If the stew has thickened too much, add a little chicken broth or water to thin it out.
Freezing: Slow Cooker Chicken Stew can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or freezer bags. When ready to eat, thaw the stew in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as described above.
Final Thoughts:
This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is a testament to the fact that delicious and comforting meals don’t need to be complicated or time-consuming. It’s the perfect recipe for a cozy night in, a potluck gathering, or simply a way to enjoy a nutritious and flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Give it a try, and I guarantee it will become a regular in your recipe rotation. Enjoy!
FAQs:
Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?
A: Yes, you can use chicken breasts. Just be sure not to overcook them, as they can become dry. I recommend cutting them into 1-inch cubes and adding them to the slow cooker about an hour before the end of the cooking time.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to this stew?
A: Absolutely! This recipe is very versatile. Feel free to add other vegetables like parsnips, turnips, or sweet potatoes.
Q: Can I make this recipe on the stovetop?
A: Yes, you can. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine all the ingredients and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 1-1.5 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Q: How can I thicken the stew if it’s too thin?
A: You can thicken the stew by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water. Stir this mixture into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Alternatively, you can mash some of the potatoes to thicken the stew naturally.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth and ensure none of your ingredients contain gluten.
Q: Can I make this stew ahead of time?
A: Yes, this stew is even better the next day! The flavors meld together beautifully. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.
Q: Does this recipe work in an Instant Pot?
A: Yes! You can adapt this recipe for an Instant Pot. Sear the chicken using the sauté function. Then add all the ingredients, secure the lid, and cook on high pressure for 10-12 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release for 10 minutes.
try also : Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe and find more in pinterest