ULTIMATE COMFORT CHICKEN STEW – easymealstoprep

I remember chilly autumn evenings, the kind where the wind howls and all you crave is a warm hug from the inside out. My grandmother, bless her heart, always knew how to chase away the cold with her legendary chicken stew. Now, after years of tinkering and testing, I’ve perfected a version that’s even easier and more delicious – a Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe that will become your family’s new favorite. Today, I’m sharing all my secrets for the most amazing Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe you’ll ever make!

Why You’ll Adore This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Let’s be honest, life gets busy. Between work, family, and everything else, finding time to cook a wholesome, satisfying meal can feel like a Herculean task. That’s where this slow cooker chicken stew comes to the rescue. It’s the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it dinner, allowing you to enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal with minimal effort. And trust me, the aroma that fills your kitchen while it simmers away is pure bliss!

But it’s not just about convenience. This stew is packed with tender chicken, perfectly cooked vegetables, and a rich, savory broth that will warm you from head to toe. It’s comfort food at its finest, and it’s guaranteed to put a smile on everyone’s face. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables, herbs, and spices to create a dish that’s uniquely yours.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to create this masterpiece. Don’t worry if you don’t have everything on hand – feel free to substitute or omit ingredients based on your preferences. That’s the beauty of stew; it’s forgiving and adaptable!

• Chicken: 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces)
• Vegetables:
  • 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1 cup frozen peas (add in the last 30 minutes of cooking)
• Broth: 6 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
• Herbs & Spices:
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1 bay leaf
• Thickening Agent (Optional): 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (to create a slurry)
• Garnish (Optional): Fresh parsley, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions: Making Your Chicken Stew

Now for the fun part! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious, comforting chicken stew simmering away in no time.

1. Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Chop the carrots, celery, onion, and potatoes into uniform sizes for even cooking. Mince the garlic.
2. Layer the Ingredients in the Slow Cooker: Add the chopped carrots, celery, and onion to the bottom of your slow cooker. This creates a flavorful base and prevents the chicken from sticking.
3. Add the Chicken and Garlic: Place the chicken pieces on top of the vegetables. Sprinkle the minced garlic evenly over the chicken.
4. Pour in the Broth and Seasonings: Pour the chicken broth over the chicken and vegetables. Add the thyme, rosemary, salt, pepper, and bay leaf. Make sure the chicken and vegetables are mostly submerged in the broth.
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. The chicken should be very tender and easily shreddable with a fork.
6. Add the Potatoes: Add the cubed potatoes to the slow cooker during the last 2 hours of cooking on low, or the last 1 hour on high. This prevents them from becoming mushy. If you like softer potatoes, you can add them earlier.
7. Add the Peas: During the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the frozen peas. They only need a short time to cook and will retain their bright green color and slightly sweet flavor.
8. Thicken the Stew (Optional): If you prefer a thicker stew, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water to create a slurry. Pour the slurry into the slow cooker during the last 15 minutes of cooking. Stir well and let it simmer until the stew thickens to your desired consistency.
9. Remove the Bay Leaf: Before serving, remove the bay leaf. It has imparted its flavor and is no longer needed.
10. Serve and Garnish: Ladle the chicken stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread, biscuits, or crackers.

Success Tips for the Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Want to make sure your slow cooker chicken stew is a guaranteed hit? Here are a few “golden” tips that will help you achieve stew perfection every time.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Slow Cooker: Overcrowding can prevent the stew from cooking evenly. If you have a lot of ingredients, use a larger slow cooker or cook in batches.
• Sear the Chicken for Extra Flavor (Optional): While not necessary, searing the chicken in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker can add a deeper, richer flavor. Simply brown the chicken on all sides in a little oil before transferring it to the slow cooker.
• Adjust the Seasoning to Your Taste: Taste the stew during the last hour of cooking and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your personal preferences.
• Use High-Quality Broth: The quality of your chicken broth will significantly impact the flavor of your stew. Opt for a low-sodium broth to control the saltiness and use a good quality brand.
• Don’t Lift the Lid Too Often: Resist the temptation to lift the lid of your slow cooker frequently. Each time you lift the lid, you release heat and steam, which can prolong the cooking time.

Variations and Adaptations

The beauty of this slow cooker chicken stew recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create a stew that’s tailored to your taste.

Vegetable Variations

Don’t be afraid to swap out or add different vegetables to your stew. Some great options include:

• Sweet Potatoes: Add diced sweet potatoes for a touch of sweetness and extra nutrients.
• Green Beans: Stir in fresh or frozen green beans during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Corn: Add frozen or canned corn for a burst of sweetness and color.
• Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms before adding them to the slow cooker for a savory, earthy flavor.
• Turnips or Parsnips: These root vegetables add a unique flavor and texture to the stew.

Flavor Variations

Want to kick up the flavor of your chicken stew? Try these simple additions:

• Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end of cooking adds brightness and acidity.
• Hot Sauce: Add a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a little heat.
• Worcestershire Sauce: A splash of Worcestershire sauce adds depth and umami flavor.
• Smoked Paprika: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a smoky, savory flavor.
• Fresh Herbs: Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a burst of flavor.

Creamy Chicken Stew

For a richer, creamier stew, stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or sour cream during the last 15 minutes of cooking. Be sure to stir gently to avoid curdling the cream.

Serving Suggestions

This slow cooker chicken stew is delicious on its own, but it’s even better when served with the right accompaniments.

• Crusty Bread: Serve with a loaf of crusty bread for dipping into the flavorful broth.
• Biscuits: Warm, fluffy biscuits are a classic accompaniment to chicken stew.
• Crackers: Serve with your favorite crackers for a simple and satisfying meal.
• Mashed Potatoes: Spoon the chicken stew over mashed potatoes for an extra comforting dish.
• Rice: Serve the stew over a bed of fluffy rice for a hearty and filling meal.

Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions

One of the best things about slow cooker chicken stew is that it’s perfect for making ahead of time. You can prepare the stew up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will actually meld together and become even more delicious over time. Alternatively, this is a great dish to pair with CHICKEN DUMPLING SOUP for a complete meal plan.

Storage:

Store leftover chicken stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Reheating:

Reheat the stew in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave.

Freezing:

Chicken stew freezes well. Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or freezer bags. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw the stew in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as directed above.

If you’re in the mood for some heat, you might also enjoy CAJUN CHICKEN SOUP HEAVEN. Both are great options for chilly evenings.

More Slow Cooker Comfort Food Recipes

If you love the ease and convenience of slow cooking, you’re in luck! Here are a few more of my favorite slow cooker comfort food recipes that I know you’ll enjoy:

• COMFORT BEEF STEW: A hearty and flavorful beef stew that’s perfect for a cold winter day.
• Butter Chicken: An easy and delicious Indian-inspired dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
• White Chicken Chili: A creamy and flavorful chili that’s packed with chicken, beans, and spices.
• Beef Stew: A classic beef stew recipe that’s simple, hearty, and comforting.

Final Thoughts: Your New Go-To Chicken Stew

There you have it! My ultimate slow cooker chicken stew recipe, complete with all my tips, tricks, and variations. I truly believe this will become your new go-to recipe for those cozy nights when you crave something warm, comforting, and easy to make. So grab your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of pure deliciousness. Happy cooking, my friend!