Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

A hearty and comforting Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is the perfect meal for chilly days. Packed with tender chicken, flavorful herbs, and wholesome vegetables, this dish is ideal for family dinners or gatherings. The unique feature of this recipe is that it achieves a creamy texture without the use of cream, making it a lighter option that still satisfies. Whether you need a weeknight dinner or a cozy meal for entertaining, this stew fits the bill perfectly.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Stew
• How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
• Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
• Step 2: Sear the Chicken
• Step 3: Transfer to Slow Cooker
• Step 4: Add Vegetables and Broth
• Step 5: Cook
• Step 6: Final Touches
• Step 7: Season & Serve
• How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
• With Crusty Bread
• Over Rice
• With a Side Salad
• Topped with Fresh Herbs
• In a Bread Bowl
• With Pickles or Relish
• 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 long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Chicken Stew?
• Can I add more vegetables?
• What should I serve with this stew?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Simply toss all ingredients into the slow cooker and let it do the work.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of herbs and spices creates a delicious depth of flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean chicken and nutritious vegetables, it’s a wholesome choice.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as-is or pair it with crusty bread or rice for a heartier meal.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This stew tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is the star of the show, allowing for hands-off cooking while infusing flavors over hours.
• Large skillet: Perfect for searing chicken before adding it to your slow cooker, enhancing flavor.
• Cutting board & Sharp knife: Essential for efficiently prepping your ingredients to save time in the kitchen.

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

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

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 through—just sear to lock in juices.

Step 3: Transfer to Slow Cooker

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

Step 4: Add Vegetables and Broth

Add garlic, onion, carrots, and potatoes to the slow cooker; stir to combine. Pour in chicken broth and add bay leaf.

Step 5: Cook

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

Step 6: Final Touches

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

Step 7: Season & Serve

Taste stew; adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately or store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Stew!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Serving Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is all about enhancing its comforting flavors and textures. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to make your meal even more enjoyable.

With Crusty Bread

• Freshly baked artisan bread pairs perfectly with slow cooker chicken stew, allowing you to soak up the rich broth.

Over Rice

• Serving the stew over a bed of fluffy rice creates a satisfying and hearty meal, making it more filling.

With a Side Salad

• A crisp green salad adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy stew, balancing out the meal’s richness.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnishing your bowl with fresh parsley or thyme can elevate the dish’s flavor and presentation.

In a Bread Bowl

• For a fun twist, serve the stew in hollowed-out bread bowls for an edible serving option that’s both delicious and unique.

With Pickles or Relish

• A side of tangy pickles or relish can provide a nice acidity that cuts through the creaminess of the stew.

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How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

To achieve the best results with your slow cooker chicken stew, consider these helpful tips.

• Sear the chicken: Searing chicken before adding it to the slow cooker enhances flavor by creating a golden-brown crust.

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme can provide a bolder taste than dried ones, making your stew more aromatic.

• Adjust seasoning gradually: Taste as you go. Add salt and pepper in small increments to avoid oversalting your dish.

• Don’t skip the bay leaf: Adding a bay leaf during cooking infuses a subtle depth of flavor that’s essential for hearty stews.

• Thicken wisely: If your stew is too thin, use flour or cornstarch mixed with cold water to thicken it without clumping.

• Let it rest: Allowing the finished stew to sit for 10-15 minutes before serving helps meld all the flavors together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Pairing side dishes with slow cooker chicken stew can enhance your dining experience. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic complement the stew’s texture wonderfully.

2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition while balancing out the richness of the stew.

3. Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits are perfect for dipping into the stew, making every bite a delightfully savory experience.

4. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw offers freshness and a bit of tang that contrasts nicely with the warm, creamy stew.

5. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread provides a delightful sweetness that pairs well with savory dishes like chicken stew.

6. Steamed Green Beans: Simple steamed green beans add crunch and vibrant color to your plate without overpowering flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Slow cooking can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can affect your Slow Cooker Chicken Stew. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the browning step: Not searing the chicken can lead to a lack of flavor. Browning locks in juices and adds depth to your stew.
• Overcrowding the slow cooker: Filling the pot too full may prevent even cooking. Stick to the recommended quantities for best results.
• Adding dairy too early: If you add milk at the beginning, it may curdle. Wait until the stew is almost done before stirring in any milk.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can result in bland flavors. Always taste before serving and add salt or pepper as necessary.
• Not using enough liquid: Insufficient broth can lead to dry ingredients. Ensure there’s enough liquid for proper slow cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

• Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered loosely, stirring occasionally for even heating.
• Stovetop: Warm on medium heat in a pot, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Slow Cooker Chicken Stew:

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, but they may not be as tender as thighs after slow cooking.

How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Chicken Stew?

Cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, depending on your time availability.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize by adding your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.

What should I serve with this stew?

This stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or over cooked rice for a hearty meal.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is perfect for chilly days when you crave comfort food. Its heartiness and creamy texture make it appealing to everyone. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own!