Creating a warm and comforting meal doesn’t get any easier than with a slow cooker chicken stew recipe. This dish, rich in flavor and nutrients, offers a delightful blend of chicken and vegetables simmered to perfection. Not only does it fill your home with mouth-watering aromas as it cooks, but it also results in a satisfying meal that can bring a sense of joy and comfort. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this recipe is bound to impress.
Why We Love This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe
One of the best aspects of this slow cooker chicken stew is its versatility. You can easily adjust the ingredients to use what’s on hand, making it an economical choice for meals. Whether you prefer chicken thighs or chicken breasts, this stew accommodates both beautifully, ensuring tenderness and flavor.
Moreover, the slow cooking process allows the ingredients to meld together, enhancing their flavors and creating a nutritious meal that warms both the body and soul. Each spoonful is filled with hearty vegetables and juicy chicken, making it a complete meal on its own. Plus, the prep time is minimal, allowing you to set it and forget it. You can go about your day knowing a delicious meal awaits you.
Ingredients about Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe
To get started, gather your ingredients. You’ll need a selection of fresh vegetables teamed up with the star of the show—chicken. Here’s what you need:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 3 carrots, diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe Directions
Getting your slow cooker chicken stew ready is as easy as following a few simple steps.
Step 1: Start by searing the chicken in a hot skillet. This step, while optional, adds a lovely golden-brown color and rich flavor to your chicken. Sear for about 3-5 minutes on each side until golden, then remove from heat.
Step 2: In your slow cooker, place the seared chicken alongside the diced carrots, celery, onions, and potatoes. Adding these vegetables ensures a hearty stew filled with various textures and nutrients.
Step 3: Next, incorporate the minced garlic and bay leaves. Season the entire mixture with thyme, salt, and pepper, stirring gently to combine all the wonderful flavors.
Step 4: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, which will serve as the base of your stew. If you opt to thicken the stew, you can whisk the flour with a little broth first, or simply sprinkle it over the top of the mixture. Stir to incorporate.
Step 5: Secure the lid on your slow cooker and set it to cook! If you’re in a hurry, choose the high setting for 3-4 hours. For a more leisurely approach, cook on low for 6-8 hours. Either way, you will end up with tender chicken and perfectly cooked vegetables.
Step 6: Once the cooking time is complete, be sure to remove the bay leaves. Taste your stew and adjust the seasoning as necessary.
Step 7: Serve warm, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for that added touch of color and flavor.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe
Serving your slow cooker chicken stew is an opportunity to share comfort and warmth. Ladle generous portions into bowls while the stew is still steaming to entice everyone at the table. You can pair this meal with fresh bread, perfect for dipping, or even serve it over a mound of fluffy rice for added substance.
For a complete dining experience, consider serving a side salad to add freshness. A light vinaigrette can beautifully contrast the rich flavors of the stew. Furthermore, you can prepare a selection of your favorite crackers or a warm baguette to complement the meal beautifully.
Remember, the beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. Feel free to customize how you serve it based on the occasion or your family’s preferences!
Expert Tips: Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe
To ensure you get the most out of your slow cooker chicken stew, consider these expert tips:
- Choose Quality Chicken: For the best flavor and texture, go for high-quality, fresh chicken. Thighs tend to be more flavorful and tender than breasts, especially for long cooking times.
- Sear for Flavor: While searing is optional, taking the time to sear your chicken adds depth to the flavor. Don’t rush this step; allow a nice crust to develop.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Whenever possible, use fresh herbs and vegetables. They bring vibrant flavors that dried ingredients simply can’t match.
- Adjust Cooking Time: Keep in mind that slow cooker times may vary based on the model. Check for doneness a little earlier if you’re uncertain.
- Make it Ahead: This stew can be made ahead of time and reheated, making it perfect for meal prep.
- Add More Vegetables: Feel free to sneak in additional vegetables such as peas, parsnips, or even bell peppers based on your preferences.
- Use Leftovers Creatively: If you have any stew left over, consider transforming it into a filling for pot pies or serve it on a bed of pasta for a different twist.
How to Store Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe
If you find yourself with leftovers after a delightful meal, storing your slow cooker chicken stew is a breeze. Let the stew cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Properly stored in the refrigerator, your stew will last for about 3-4 days.
If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Pour the cooled stew into freezer-safe bags or containers, making sure to leave some space at the top for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Variation of Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe
While the classic slow cooker chicken stew is absolutely delicious on its own, experimenting with variations can elevate your experience even further.
- Herb Variations: Swap in fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley for a different flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Creamy Stew: To convert this dish into a creamy chicken stew, stir in some heavy cream or a splash of milk during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Gluten-Free Options: To keep this stew gluten-free, either skip the flour for thickening or use a gluten-free all-purpose flour alternative.
- Different Proteins: While chicken is the star here, you can also use turkey for a holiday-inspired twist.
Feel free to get creative and adapt the recipe based on what you have available, your dietary preferences, and your creative culinary spirit!
FAQ about Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe
How long does slow cooker chicken stew take to cook? Cooking time for slow cooker chicken stew can vary depending on whether you set it to low or high. Generally, it takes about 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high for the chicken to become tender.
Can I use frozen chicken in this stew? Absolutely! If you want to use frozen chicken, you might need to extend the cooking time slightly to ensure it is fully cooked and tender.
What can I serve with slow cooker chicken stew? Slow cooker chicken stew is hearty and filling on its own, but you can pair it with bread, rice, or a side salad to round out the meal.
Is it possible to make this stew dairy-free? Yes! This recipe is naturally dairy-free. Just avoid adding any dairy products, and you’ll have a delicious dish that fits within a dairy-free diet.
Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts Choose thighs for more flavor and tenderness.
- 3 pieces carrots, diced
- 3 stalks celery, diced
- 1 piece onion, diced
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth Use low-sodium broth to control salt content.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 pieces bay leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening) Can be omitted for gluten-free option.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by searing the chicken in a hot skillet for about 3-5 minutes on each side until golden, then remove from heat.
- In your slow cooker, place the seared chicken alongside the diced carrots, celery, onions, and potatoes.
- Incorporate the minced garlic and bay leaves. Season the mixture with thyme, salt, and pepper, stirring gently to combine.
- Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth. If thickening, whisk the flour with a little broth first, or sprinkle it over the top and stir to incorporate.
- Secure the lid on your slow cooker and set it to cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6-8 hours.
- Once cooking time is complete, remove the bay leaves, taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.
- Serve warm, garnished with freshly chopped parsley.
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