ULTIMATE COMFORT CHICKEN STEW – easymealstoprep

I remember chilly autumn evenings at my grandmother’s house, the air thick with the savory aroma of simmering vegetables and chicken. That comforting scent always meant one thing: her legendary chicken stew. Trying to recreate her magic felt impossible until I discovered the beauty of the slow cooker. Now, I can easily capture that same warmth and flavor. Today, I’m sharing all my secrets for the most amazing Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe you’ll ever make!

Why This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe is a Game Changer

Let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a hearty, comforting stew on a cold day? But sometimes, the thought of standing over a hot stove for hours just isn’t appealing. That’s where the slow cooker comes in! This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe is not only incredibly easy to make, but it also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a depth of flavor that you just can’t achieve with traditional cooking methods. It’s the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it meal, perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Plus, it’s packed with healthy vegetables and protein, making it a complete and satisfying meal.

The Magic of Slow Cooking

What makes slow cooking so special? Well, for starters, it’s incredibly forgiving. You can throw in a bunch of ingredients, set it, and forget it. The low and slow cooking process tenderizes the chicken, allowing it to practically melt in your mouth. It also gives the vegetables time to release their natural sweetness and flavors, creating a rich and complex broth. And because the slow cooker traps moisture, your stew will be perfectly moist and delicious every time. Plus, clean up is a breeze! One pot, minimal effort, maximum flavor – what’s not to love?

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to create this culinary masterpiece. Don’t worry, most of these are pantry staples!

• Chicken: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces) – Thighs are my personal favorite because they stay incredibly moist during the slow cooking process. But breasts work beautifully too!
• Vegetables:
  • 2 cups carrots, peeled and chopped
  • 2 cups celery, chopped
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 cups potatoes, peeled and cubed (I prefer Yukon Gold or Russet)
  • 1 cup frozen peas (added at the end)
  • 1 cup frozen corn (added at the end)
• Broth: 6 cups chicken broth – Using a good quality broth makes a HUGE difference in the overall flavor of the stew.
• Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons – This adds a subtle richness and depth of flavor.
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced – Because everything is better with garlic!
• Herbs & Spices:
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 bay leaf (don’t forget to remove it before serving!)
• Optional: 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (for thickening, if desired)

Let’s Get Cooking: Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get started! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious, comforting stew in no time.

1. Prep the Vegetables: Chop your carrots, celery, onion, and potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Uniformity is key for even cooking.
2. Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker: Place the chopped vegetables, chicken, minced garlic, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, parsley, salt, pepper, and bay leaf into your slow cooker.
3. Pour in the Broth: Pour the chicken broth over the ingredients, ensuring that the chicken and vegetables are mostly submerged.
4. Cook on Low or High: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Cooking on low yields the most tender chicken and allows the flavors to develop more fully, but high works in a pinch!
5. Check the Chicken: After the cooking time is up, check the chicken to ensure it’s cooked through. It should be easily shredded with a fork.
6. Add Frozen Peas and Corn: Stir in the frozen peas and corn during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This prevents them from becoming mushy.
7. Thicken (Optional): If you prefer a thicker stew, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl. Stir the mixture into the stew during the last 15 minutes of cooking. Let it simmer to thicken.
8. Remove Bay Leaf and Serve: Before serving, be sure to remove the bay leaf. Serve hot and enjoy!

Success Tips for the Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Want to ensure your Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is a resounding success? Here are a few golden tips I’ve learned over the years:

• Don’t Overcrowd the Slow Cooker: Make sure there’s enough liquid to cover most of the ingredients. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.
• Brown the Chicken (Optional, But Recommended): For an even richer flavor, sear the chicken in a skillet with a little olive oil before adding it to the slow cooker. This step adds a beautiful depth of flavor and color.
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Taste the stew towards the end of the cooking time and adjust the seasoning as needed. A little extra salt and pepper can make a big difference.
• Don’t Open the Lid Too Often: Each time you open the lid, you release heat and moisture, which can prolong the cooking time. Resist the urge to peek!
• Add Dairy Last (If Using): If you want to add cream or milk to your stew, do so during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Adding dairy too early can cause it to curdle.

Variations and Adaptations

One of the best things about this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe is its versatility! Feel free to experiment with different vegetables, herbs, and spices to create your own unique version. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Add Different Vegetables: Try adding mushrooms, green beans, parsnips, or sweet potatoes.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
• Use Different Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like sage, oregano, or marjoram.
• Add a Touch of Wine: For a more sophisticated flavor, add a splash of dry white wine to the stew during the first hour of cooking.
• Make it Creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving for a creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions

This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is delicious on its own, but it’s even better when paired with the right accompaniments. Here are a few of my favorite serving suggestions:

• Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of crusty bread for dipping into the flavorful broth.
• Biscuits: Warm, flaky biscuits are the perfect complement to a hearty stew.
• Mashed Potatoes: Spoon the stew over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes for an extra comforting meal.
• Salad: Serve with a simple green salad for a light and refreshing contrast.
• Cornbread: A slice of sweet cornbread is a classic pairing with chicken stew.

Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions

This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is a great make-ahead meal. You can prepare it up to 2-3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. In fact, the flavors often meld together even more beautifully overnight! To reheat, simply warm it up in a pot on the stove or in the microwave. You can also freeze the stew for up to 2-3 months. Be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as directed.

Other Comforting Soup Recipes You’ll Love

If you’re a fan of this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe, you’ll definitely want to check out some of my other favorite soup and stew recipes. They’re all incredibly easy to make and perfect for cozy nights in.

For a truly soul-warming experience, try my CHICKEN DUMPLING SOUP. It’s like a hug in a bowl! Or, if you’re craving something with a bit of a kick, you’ll adore my CAJUN CHICKEN SOUP. It’s packed with flavor and guaranteed to warm you from the inside out.

Looking for more easy slow cooker recipes? My Crock Pot Chicken & Rice is a family favorite, and my Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken & Rice is bursting with bright, fresh flavors. And if you’re in the mood for something creamy and comforting, you can’t go wrong with my Crockpot White Chicken Chili or my Crockpot Potato Soup. They’re both incredibly easy to make and perfect for chilly days.

Recipe

Here’s the complete recipe for easy printing or saving:

Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe

Yields: 6-8 servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces)
• 2 cups carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 cups celery, chopped
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cups potatoes, peeled and cubed (I prefer Yukon Gold or Russet)
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup frozen corn
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (optional)

Instructions:

1. Chop carrots, celery, onion, and potatoes into bite-sized pieces.
2. Place the chopped vegetables, chicken, minced garlic, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, parsley, salt, pepper, and bay leaf into your slow cooker.
3. Pour the chicken broth over the ingredients, ensuring that the chicken and vegetables are mostly submerged.
4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
5. Check the chicken to ensure it’s cooked through. It should be easily shredded with a fork.
6. Stir in the frozen peas and corn during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
7. If you prefer a thicker stew, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl. Stir the mixture into the stew during the last 15 minutes of cooking. Let it simmer to thicken.
8. Before serving, be sure to remove the bay leaf. Serve hot and enjoy!

Final Thoughts: Warmth in Every Spoonful

This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s the warmth of a cozy kitchen, the comfort of a home-cooked meal, and the joy of sharing good food with loved ones. I truly hope you enjoy this recipe as much as my family and I do. So gather your ingredients, dust off your slow cooker, and get ready to create a stew that will warm your heart and soul. Happy cooking!

ULTIMATE COMFORT CHICKEN STEW

Amelia

This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew recipe is a hearty and comforting classic perfect for chilly days. Packed with tender chicken, healthy vegetables, and a rich broth, it’s an easy and satisfying meal that’s made effortlessly in a slow cooker, allowing flavors to meld beautifully for ultimate comfort.

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 6 hours hrs

Total Time 6 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6

Calories 450 kcal

• Slow cooker

• Cutting board

• Chef’s knife

• Measuring cups

• Measuring spoons

• Mixing spoon

• Small bowl (optional, for cornstarch slurry)

• Whisk (optional, for cornstarch slurry)

• Ladle

• Serving bowls

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 cups carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 cups celery, chopped
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cups potatoes, peeled and cubed Yukon Gold or Russet
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup frozen corn
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• ½ teaspoon dried parsley
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water optional

• Chop carrots, celery, onion, and potatoes into bite-sized pieces.

• Place the chopped vegetables, chicken, minced garlic, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, parsley, salt, pepper, and bay leaf into your slow cooker.

• Pour the chicken broth over the ingredients, ensuring that the chicken and vegetables are mostly submerged.

• Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Cooking on low yields the most tender chicken.

• Check the chicken to ensure it’s cooked through. It should be easily shredded with a fork.

• Stir in the frozen peas and corn during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

• If you prefer a thicker stew, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl. Stir the mixture into the stew during the last 15 minutes of cooking. Let it simmer to thicken.

• Before serving, be sure to remove the bay leaf. Serve hot and enjoy!

For richer flavor, brown the chicken in a skillet before adding to the slow cooker. Adjust seasoning to taste after cooking. To make it creamy, stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Ensure the stew has cooled completely before freezing.