This chicken stew is perfect for cozy dinners! With tender chicken, hearty veggies, and a tasty broth, it’s like a warm hug in a bowl.
Making it in the slow cooker means you can set it and forget it. I love coming home to that delicious aroma! Add some crusty bread, and you’re all set for a comfy night. 🍲
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Use boneless, skinless thighs for juiciness, but breasts work too! If you’re vegetarian, try chickpeas or lentils for a hearty alternative.
Potatoes: I like Yukon Gold for their creamy texture, but any type, like russet or red, can suit your taste. If you want a low-carb option, cauliflower works nicely.
Carrots: Fresh carrots add a nice sweetness. You can replace them with sweet potatoes for a richer flavor or even parsnips for a slightly different taste.
Herbs and Spices: Thyme and rosemary are classics, but feel free to swap in Italian seasoning or even a dash of curry powder for something different.
How Do I Ensure My Stew is Full of Flavor?
Getting the most flavor in your chicken stew comes down to a few key steps. First, consider searing the chicken—you’ll enhance its taste nicely! Just a few minutes per side can make a big difference.
- After searing, layer your ingredients in the slow cooker with the chicken at the bottom. This helps keep it moist.
- Mix the tomato paste well into the broth; this adds depth to the whole dish.
- Don’t skip adjusting the seasoning! Taste towards the end and add salt, pepper, or extra herbs to get it just right.
Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew for Cozy Dinners
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 to 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional, added near end)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cozy chicken stew takes about 15 minutes of prep time and will cook for either 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the slow cooker. Just chop, toss everything in, and let your slow cooker do the magic! Perfect for busy days when you want a warm dinner waiting for you.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Searing the Chicken (Optional):
Start by warming the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces and sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re lightly browned. This step adds extra flavor, but feel free to skip it if you’re short on time!
2. Transfer to Slow Cooker:
Take the seared chicken out of the skillet and place it in the slow cooker. This is where the deliciousness begins!
3. Add Vegetables:
Layer in the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, and sliced celery over the chicken.
4. Mix the Broth:
In a small bowl, mix the tomato paste into the chicken broth until well combined. Pour this flavorful mixture over the chicken and veggies in the slow cooker.
5. Season It Up:
Sprinkle the dried thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, and black pepper over everything. This is where all your flavors come together!
6. Cook It:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours, or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
7. Add Peas Near the End:
If you’re using frozen peas, stir them in about 30 minutes before the stew is ready. They’ll add a nice touch of color and sweetness!
8. Thicken the Stew (Optional):
If you like a thicker stew, mix the all-purpose flour with a little cold water to make a smooth slurry, then stir it into the slow cooker. Cook on high for an extra 20-30 minutes until thickened to your liking.
9. Final Taste Check:
Once everything is ready, taste the stew and adjust the seasonings if needed. Don’t hesitate to add a bit more salt or pepper if you like!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the stew hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley on top. It’s even better when paired with some crusty bread to soak up all that delicious broth!
Enjoy your cozy, comforting slow cooker chicken stew!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just remember that it may take a bit longer to cook. Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.
How Can I Make This Stew Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or lentils, and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can add additional veggies like mushrooms for a hearty texture!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Stew?
Definitely! Feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables, such as green beans, bell peppers, or corn. Just keep in mind that denser vegetables like root veggies may take longer to cook than softer ones.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Double This Recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe! Just ensure your slow cooker is large enough to hold all the ingredients. Cooking time may remain the same, but check for doneness just in case.
