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 not just comforting, but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. With its rich flavors and tender chicken, this dish will quickly become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Simply toss the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it do the work.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of herbs and garlic infuses the stew with delicious flavors.
• Comforting Meal: Perfect for chilly evenings, this stew warms you from the inside out.
• Versatile Dish: Customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices for a unique twist.
• Leftover Friendly: Enjoy tasty leftovers that can be refrigerated or frozen for later.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This kitchen hero allows for hands-off cooking, letting you enjoy your day while the stew simmers away.
• Large skillet: Ideal for searing the chicken to lock in flavor before transferring to the slow cooker.
• Cutting board & Chef’s knife: Essential for prepping your ingredients efficiently and safely.

Ingredients

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

Ingredients:
– 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
– 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
– 1/2 cup milk
– 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, warm the olive oil. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 4–5 minutes until browned on all sides. You don’t need to cook it all the way through; simply sear it in its juices before adding to the slow cooker. If your slow cooker has a removable stovetop-safe pot, you can sear directly in that pot.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Once seared, transfer the chicken to the slow cooker. Add flour, thyme, rosemary, and salt; stir until well coated in flour and herbs. Then add garlic, onion, carrots, and potatoes. Pour in broth and add bay leaf.

Step 4: Cook

Cover and cook on low for 7–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.

Step 5: Add Peas and Milk

Once cooked, add frozen peas and milk. Stir well to combine. Cook on high for an additional 10–15 minutes until peas are warmed through. Adjust thickness by adding more flour if too thin or some broth if too thick.

Step 6: Final Adjustments

Taste the stew and adjust salt and pepper as needed before serving.

Step 7: Serve

The stew can be served immediately. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Enjoy this delightful Slow Cooker Chicken Stew with crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Serving Slow Cooker Chicken Stew can be as delightful as making it. This hearty dish is not only filling but also versatile, allowing for a variety of serving options that enhance its flavor and presentation.

With Crusty Bread

• Sourdough or French Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread complements the stew perfectly, ideal for soaking up the flavors.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• Steamed Rice: Serving the stew over a bed of white or brown rice adds extra texture and helps absorb the savory broth.
• Quinoa: For a nutritious twist, quinoa provides a nutty flavor and extra protein.

With a Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers offers a refreshing contrast to the rich stew.
• Caesar Salad: This classic salad adds creaminess and crunch that pairs well with the stew’s warmth.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley or Cilantro: Sprinkling fresh herbs on top before serving enhances the dish’s appearance and adds a burst of freshness.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Perfecting your Slow Cooker Chicken Stew can elevate this comforting meal to new heights. Here are some essential tips to ensure your stew turns out delicious every time.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken will significantly improve the flavor and texture of your stew.
• Brown the Chicken: Searing the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker creates depth of flavor through caramelization.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste your stew before serving; adding a little more salt or pepper can make all the difference in flavor.
• Thicken Wisely: If you prefer a thicker stew, mix some flour with water to create a slurry before adding it in during cooking.
• Layer Your Ingredients: Place harder vegetables like potatoes at the bottom of the slow cooker for even cooking.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the stew to sit for 10 minutes after cooking helps meld flavors together even more.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Chicken Stew can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options that complement this hearty dish.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes offer a buttery richness that pairs wonderfully with chicken stew.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized add both color and nutrition to your meal.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity, balancing the richness of the stew.
4. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is perfect for scooping up stew while adding a delightful contrast in flavor.
5. Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans keep things fresh and vibrant on your plate.
6. Baked Sweet Potatoes: The sweetness of baked sweet potatoes brings an interesting twist while being nutritious.
7. Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad offers texture variation and can be made ahead of time for convenience.
8. Couscous with Herbs: Fluffy couscous seasoned with fresh herbs adds an aromatic touch that complements chicken stew beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is a delicious dish, but some common mistakes can affect the flavor and texture. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the browning step: Not searing the chicken first can lead to a less flavorful stew. Always brown the chicken to enhance its flavor before adding it to the slow cooker.
• Not seasoning enough: Under-seasoning can make your stew bland. Be sure to season generously with salt and pepper at various stages of cooking.
• Overcrowding the slow cooker: Adding too many ingredients can prevent even cooking. Stick to the recipe’s recommended amounts for best results.
• Forgetting about thickening agents: If your stew is too thin, it may need a thickening agent. Use flour or cornstarch as needed to achieve your desired consistency.
• Ignoring cooking times: Cooking for too long on high can dry out the chicken. Follow the recommended cooking times for tender meat.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

• Allow the stew to cool completely before freezing.
• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.

Reheating Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place stew in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake until heated through.
• Microwave: Transfer portions into microwave-safe bowls and heat on high until warm, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat gently in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about making Slow Cooker Chicken Stew:

How do I make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew thicker?

You can add a cornstarch slurry or additional flour during the last hour of cooking if you want a thicker consistency.

Can I use frozen chicken in my Slow Cooker Chicken Stew?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken thighs, but ensure they are fully cooked before serving. Cooking times may vary.

What vegetables work best in Slow Cooker Chicken Stew?

Carrots, potatoes, and peas are great options! Feel free to add others like green beans or bell peppers as well.

Can I customize the flavors of my Slow Cooker Chicken Stew?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different herbs and spices like paprika or cumin for varied flavor profiles.

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 for perfectly tender chicken and flavorful broth.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is not only hearty and comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. Try this recipe on a chilly day; it’s sure to warm you up and satisfy your taste buds!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Warm up your chilly evenings with this delightful Slow Cooker Chicken Stew. This creamy chicken stew without the cream is a wholesome and hearty dish that effortlessly combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs into a comforting meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, this easy-to-make recipe will quickly become a family favorite. Just toss the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it work its magic while you enjoy your day. Customize it with your favorite veggies for a personalized touch, and don’t forget to pair it with crusty bread or serve over rice for a complete feast!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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
• 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
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup green peas, frozen
• Black pepper, to season

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Instructions

1. Cut chicken thighs into 1-inch pieces and season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet and sear the chicken until browned (4–5 minutes).
3. Transfer chicken to the slow cooker; add flour, thyme, rosemary, garlic, onion, carrots, potatoes, broth, and bay leaf.
4. Cook on low for 7–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
5. Stir in frozen peas and milk; cook on high for an additional 10–15 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 7–8 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooker
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 310
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 80mg