Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Name: Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 20 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 pounds chicken thighs, boneless and skinless; 4 carrots, chopped; 3 potatoes, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Warm up your evenings with this hearty Slow Cooker Chicken Stew, packed with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs. This comforting dish simmers slowly to infuse flavors, making it the perfect meal for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. Simply toss in your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and let it do the work for you. Enjoy a bowl of nourishment that fills both your belly and your soul.

Created by

Anna Johnson

Last updated on 2025-10-27T12:08:37.483Z

This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew recipe is an essential part of any family gathering. The combination of tender chicken and vegetables creates a warm and inviting dish that everyone will love.

A Hearty Comfort Food

When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of stew. This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew not only fills you up but also warms your heart, making it a perfect meal for family gatherings. The tender chicken combined with fresh vegetables creates a satisfying dish that everyone will love. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring every bite is packed with deliciousness.

One of the standout features of this recipe is its simplicity. You don’t have to spend hours in the kitchen. Instead, you can let the slow cooker do the heavy lifting while you go about your day. This is especially great for busy weekdays when you might not have much time to prepare dinner. Just throw the ingredients in, set the timer, and return to a fully cooked meal that is ready to be enjoyed.

Versatile and Customizable

This stew recipe is highly versatile, allowing you to customize it based on your family's preferences or what ingredients you have on hand. If you prefer, you can easily substitute chicken thighs with breasts, or add in other vegetables like green beans or peas. This adaptability makes it not only a great recipe for using up pantry staples but also an exciting dish that you can modify year-round.

In addition, the warm, aromatic herbs like thyme and rosemary elevate the flavors of the stew, making it a classic favorite. Experiment with different seasonings to create your unique twist, or even add a splash of white wine or a dash of hot sauce for a kick. The Slow Cooker Chicken Stew can be a blank canvas for your culinary creativity!

Nutritional Benefits

Aside from its delightful taste, this stew is packed with nutrients. Chicken is a great source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth, while the assorted vegetables provide vitamins and minerals that support overall health. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, crucial for eye health, and potatoes offer a good dose of dietary fiber, promoting digestion and fullness.

Moreover, cooking the stew slowly allows the nutrients to be retained, ensuring that you’re not just indulging but also nourishing your body. This recipe is an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.

Ingredients

For the Stew

2 pounds chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
4 carrots, chopped
3 potatoes, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Chop all the vegetables and mince the garlic before adding them to the slow cooker with the chicken.

Combine and Cook

Add the chicken along with the vegetables and broth to the slow cooker. Season with thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

Set the Slow Cooker

Cover and set the slow cooker on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. Cook until the chicken is tender and easily shreddable.

Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, shred the chicken in the pot, stir, and serve the stew hot with your favorite bread.

Adjust seasoning before serving if necessary.

Storage and Reheating Tips

One of the great things about this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is that it stores beautifully. After enjoying your meal, you can easily refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing portions. Just allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. When you're ready to eat, simply defrost overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until hot.

To maintain its delicious flavors during reheating, add a splash of broth or water if the stew appears too thick. This will help achieve the perfect, comforting consistency again, making your leftovers taste fresh and inviting. Don’t forget to stir well to ensure even heating!

Serving Suggestions

This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew pairs wonderfully with various sides that complement its hearty nature. A crusty loaf of bread or a warm baguette for dipping into the flavorful broth is a classic option. Alternatively, you could serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up all that delicious sauce.

For a complete meal experience, consider a fresh, green salad on the side, dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the rich flavors of the stew. Adding seasonal fruits can also make for a delightful dessert afterward, making your family dinner a well-rounded affair.

Variations to Try

While the traditional chicken stew recipe is a staple, feel free to experiment with different proteins such as turkey or even a plant-based alternative like chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Each variation can offer new flavors and textures to explore, ensuring that this dish remains exciting with every preparation.

Spicy enthusiasts might want to throw in some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to give the stew a delightful kick. Similarly, adding a splash of coconut milk can create a creamy and tropical twist that’s absolutely delicious. The possibilities are endless, so don’t hesitate to make this dish your own!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it may require a longer cooking time.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add peas, green beans, or corn for more variety.