Chicken Stew Slow Cooker: Easy Recipe for a Cozy Meal

Chicken Stew Slow Cooker: Is there anything more comforting than walking into a warm, inviting home filled with the aroma of a hearty, homemade stew? I think not! Imagine tender chicken and perfectly cooked vegetables swimming in a rich, savory broth, all thanks to the magic of your slow cooker. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl, and it’s incredibly easy to make.

Stew, in its various forms, has been a staple in cuisines around the world for centuries. It represents resourcefulness and community, a way to make the most of available ingredients and share a nourishing meal. From the hearty stews of Ireland to the flavorful tagines of North Africa, the concept remains the same: slow cooking simple ingredients to create something truly special. Our Chicken Stew Slow Cooker recipe draws inspiration from this rich history, offering a modern, convenient twist on a classic comfort food.

People adore chicken stew for its incredible flavor, satisfying texture, and, of course, its ease of preparation. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen over time. The result is a dish that’s both incredibly delicious and incredibly convenient. Whether you’re a busy parent, a student on a budget, or simply someone who appreciates a good home-cooked meal, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. Get ready to enjoy a truly unforgettable culinary experience!

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 lb Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup frozen corn
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
• 2 tablespoons cold water (optional, for thickening)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Chicken and Vegetables:

1. First, let’s get our chicken ready. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps them brown better, even though we’re using a slow cooker. Cut them into bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch cubes. Don’t worry about being perfect; the slow cooker will make them tender regardless.
2. Next, prepare the vegetables. Chop the onion into small pieces. I like to dice mine fairly small so they practically melt into the stew.
3. Peel and chop the carrots. I prefer to cut them into rounds about 1/4 inch thick. This ensures they cook evenly and aren’t too crunchy.
4. Chop the celery stalks. Similar to the carrots, I aim for pieces about 1/4 inch thick. Celery adds a lovely subtle flavor to the stew.
5. Mince the garlic. Fresh garlic is key for that aromatic flavor. If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can use 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, but fresh is always better!
6. Peel and cube the Yukon gold potatoes. I like Yukon golds because they hold their shape well in the slow cooker and have a naturally creamy texture. Cut them into 1-inch cubes, similar in size to the chicken.

Searing the Chicken (Optional but Recommended):

While this step is optional, I highly recommend searing the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker. Searing adds a depth of flavor that you just can’t get otherwise. It creates a beautiful crust on the chicken, which contributes to a richer, more complex stew.

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure the skillet is nice and hot before adding the chicken.
2. Add the chicken to the skillet in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the pan, or the chicken will steam instead of sear. You may need to do this in batches.
3. Sear the chicken for about 2-3 minutes per side, until it’s nicely browned. You don’t need to cook it all the way through, just get a good sear on the outside.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Building the Stew in the Slow Cooker:

1. Now it’s time to assemble the stew in the slow cooker. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the bottom of the slow cooker. This creates a flavorful base for the stew.
2. Add the minced garlic on top of the vegetables.
3. Place the seared chicken (or uncooked chicken, if you skipped the searing step) on top of the vegetables and garlic.
4. Pour the chicken broth over the chicken and vegetables. Make sure the chicken is mostly submerged in the broth.
5. Add the diced tomatoes (undrained) to the slow cooker. The tomatoes add acidity and sweetness to the stew.
6. Sprinkle the dried thyme and dried rosemary over the stew. These herbs add a classic savory flavor.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, you can always add more salt later, so start with a smaller amount and adjust as needed.

Slow Cooking the Stew:

1. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The cooking time will depend on your slow cooker, so check the chicken for doneness after the minimum cooking time. The chicken should be very tender and easily shreddable with a fork.
2. About 30 minutes before the end of the cooking time, add the cubed potatoes, frozen peas, and frozen corn to the slow cooker. This ensures that the potatoes are cooked through but not mushy, and the peas and corn are still vibrant and flavorful.

Thickening the Stew (Optional):

If you prefer a thicker stew, you can thicken it with a simple flour slurry. This step is optional, but it can help to create a richer, more satisfying texture.

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and cold water until smooth. Make sure there are no lumps.
2. Pour the flour slurry into the slow cooker and stir well to combine.
3. Cover the slow cooker and cook for another 15-20 minutes, or until the stew has thickened to your desired consistency.

Serving the Chicken Stew:

1. Once the stew is cooked and thickened (if desired), it’s time to serve!
2. Ladle the chicken stew into bowls.
3. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley. This adds a pop of color and freshness to the stew.
4. Serve hot and enjoy! This chicken stew is delicious on its own, or you can serve it with a side of crusty bread for dipping.

Tips and Variations:

• Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the stew, such as mushrooms, green beans, or parsnips.
• Use different herbs: Experiment with different herbs, such as bay leaf, oregano, or sage.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
• Use bone-in chicken: You can use bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks for a richer flavor. Just be sure to remove the bones before serving.
• Add a splash of cream: For an even creamier stew, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end of cooking.
• Make it ahead of time: This chicken stew is even better the next day, as the flavors have had time to meld together. You can make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze it: Chicken stew freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Enjoy your homemade Chicken Stew!

Conclusion:

This Chicken Stew Slow Cooker recipe isn’t just another meal; it’s a warm hug on a chilly evening, a comforting bowl of goodness that practically cooks itself! If you’re looking for a dish that delivers incredible flavor with minimal effort, then trust me, you absolutely have to give this one a try. The tender chicken, the perfectly cooked vegetables, and the rich, savory broth combine to create a symphony of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.

But what truly sets this recipe apart is its versatility. Feel free to get creative and adapt it to your own tastes and preferences. For a heartier stew, add a cup of pearl barley or some diced potatoes. If you like a bit of spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce will do the trick. And for a richer, creamier texture, stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt just before serving.

Speaking of serving, the possibilities are endless! A crusty loaf of bread is a must for soaking up all that delicious broth. Alternatively, you can serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes. For a lighter meal, try pairing it with a simple side salad. And if you happen to have any leftovers (though I doubt you will!), they make a fantastic lunch the next day.

Here are a few serving suggestions to get you started:

Serving Suggestions:

• Classic Comfort: Serve with a generous slice of crusty bread for dipping.
• Rice Bowl Delight: Spoon over fluffy white or brown rice for a complete meal.
• Mashed Potato Heaven: Create a bed of creamy mashed potatoes and top with the stew.
• Salad Sidekick: Pair with a fresh green salad for a lighter option.
• Biscuit Bliss: Serve alongside warm, buttery biscuits for a truly indulgent experience.

And don’t forget about variations! This recipe is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity.

Variations to Explore:

• Creamy Dream: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra richness.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
• Hearty Boost: Incorporate a cup of pearl barley or diced potatoes for a more substantial stew.
• Herb Garden: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to customize the flavor profile.
• Vegetable Medley: Add your favorite vegetables, such as mushrooms, green beans, or peas.

I’m so confident that you’ll love this Chicken Stew Slow Cooker recipe that I can’t wait to hear about your experience. Did you try any of the variations? Did you serve it with something special? What did your family think? Please, please, please give it a go and then come back and share your thoughts in the comments below. Your feedback is invaluable, and I’m always eager to learn from your culinary adventures. Happy cooking, and bon appétit! I truly believe this will become a staple in your household, especially during those busy weeknights when you crave a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. So, dust off that slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a truly unforgettable bowl of comfort. You won’t regret it!

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