Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

A Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is the perfect dish for cozy evenings. This delightful recipe brings together tender chicken and hearty vegetables, simmered to perfection without heavy cream. Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, it’s not only filling but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to for busy cooks.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Stew
• For Garnish
• How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
• Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
• Step 2: Sear the Chicken
• Step 3: Transfer to Slow Cooker
• Step 4: Add Vegetables
• Step 5: Cook the Stew
• Step 6: Final Touches
• Step 7: Serve
• How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
• With Crusty Bread
• Over Rice
• With Green Salad
• Topped with Fresh Herbs
• How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
• Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
• Reheating Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew without flour?
• How do I customize my Slow Cooker Chicken Stew?
• What type of chicken is best for this slow cooker recipe?
• Can I double this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew recipe?
• How do I serve Slow Cooker Chicken Stew?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ease of Preparation: Simply toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work for you.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of herbs and slow cooking enhances the flavors, creating a stew that’s rich and satisfying.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out vegetables or use different cuts of chicken based on what you have at home.
• Comfort Food: This stew is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly nights or when you need something warm and hearty.
• Leftover Friendly: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers all week long; it tastes even better the next day!

Tools and Preparation

To create this comforting dish, you’ll need a few essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment will make your cooking experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This tool allows for hands-off cooking, letting flavors blend beautifully over hours without constant monitoring.
• Large skillet: Searing the chicken in a skillet first locks in juices, enhancing the overall flavor of your stew.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping ingredients quick and efficient, ensuring even cooking.

Ingredients

A hearty and creamy chicken stew without the use of cream, this comforting slow cooker recipe is perfect for chilly days.

For the Stew

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 ½ pounds chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• ½ teaspoon salt, plus more to season
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 large potatoes, cut into ½-inch cubes (1 pound)
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 bay leaf
• ½ cup milk
• 1 cup frozen green peas
• Black pepper, to season

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Dice the chicken thighs into 1-inch pieces and season generously with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
– Add the chicken pieces.
– Sear for 4-5 minutes until browned on all sides.
– You don’t need to cook through; just sear to lock in juices.

Step 3: Transfer to Slow Cooker

Transfer the seared chicken to the slow cooker.
– Sprinkle with flour, thyme, rosemary, and ½ teaspoon salt.
– Stir to coat evenly.

Step 4: Add Vegetables

Add garlic, onion, carrots, and potatoes to the slow cooker.
– Stir to combine.
– Pour in chicken broth and add bay leaf.

Step 5: Cook the Stew

Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Step 6: Final Touches

Once cooked:
– Stir in frozen peas and milk.
– Cook on high for an additional 10-15 minutes until peas are warmed through.
– Adjust thickness as needed by adding broth or whisking in extra flour.

Step 7: Serve

Taste stew; adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Stew!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Serving your Slow Cooker Chicken Stew can elevate the meal experience. With various options, you can customize your presentation to satisfy different tastes and preferences.

With Crusty Bread

• Freshly Baked Baguette: Serve warm slices of baguette to soak up the rich stew.
• Garlic Bread: Add a buttery, garlicky twist that complements the flavors in the stew.

Over Rice

• Steamed White Rice: A classic choice that absorbs the stew’s flavors beautifully.
• Brown Rice: For a healthier option, brown rice adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber.

With Green Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the hearty stew.
• Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons contrast nicely with the stew’s texture.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Adds a fresh touch and brightens the dish visually.
• Thyme Sprigs: A simple garnish that enhances the herbal notes of the stew.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

To achieve the best results with your slow cooker chicken stew, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Bone-In Chicken: This enhances flavor and moisture during cooking.
• Sear Your Chicken First: Browning the chicken locks in juices and adds depth to the taste.
• Layer Ingredients Properly: Place root vegetables at the bottom for even cooking and flavor infusion.
• Adjust Seasonings Before Serving: Taste the stew at the end and tweak salt and pepper as needed for perfection.
• Add Dairy at the End: Stir in milk or cream towards the end of cooking for a creamy texture without curdling.
• Keep Lid Closed While Cooking: Opening it lets heat escape, increasing cooking time.

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Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Pairing side dishes with your slow cooker chicken stew can create a satisfying meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting side.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy sprouts add texture and a slight bitterness that complements the stew.
3. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is perfect for soaking up broth while adding sweetness.
4. Steamed Broccoli: A healthy green option that adds color and nutrients to your plate.
5. Quinoa Salad: Light yet filling, this salad offers a nutty flavor that pairs well with chicken stew.
6. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness contrasts nicely with savory flavors in your stew.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making slow cooker chicken stew can be simple, but some common mistakes can affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the browning step: Not searing the chicken can lead to less flavor. Always brown the chicken first to lock in those juices and enhance taste.
• Overcrowding the slow cooker: Filling the pot too much can prevent even cooking. Ensure there’s enough space for heat circulation by following recommended serving sizes.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Under-seasoning during cooking can lead to bland stew. Taste as you go and adjust with salt and pepper when needed.
• Not using enough liquid: A dry stew is unappetizing. Always check your liquid levels before cooking, adding more broth if necessary.
• Ignoring cooking times: Cooking on high for too long can make chicken tough. Stick to recommended times for tender meat that falls apart beautifully.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover slow cooker chicken stew in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

• Freeze the stew in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months; label with dates for easy tracking.

Reheating Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the stew to an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. Heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover and heat on high in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour the stew into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally and heat until bubbling, about 10-15 minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew without flour?

Yes, you can omit flour for a gluten-free version. Consider using cornstarch mixed with water as a thickener instead.

How do I customize my Slow Cooker Chicken Stew?

You can add different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. Feel free to use herbs such as parsley or basil for extra flavor.

What type of chicken is best for this slow cooker recipe?

Chicken thighs are preferred due to their tenderness and flavor, but you may also use chicken breasts if desired.

Can I double this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew recipe?

Absolutely! Just ensure your slow cooker has enough capacity and adjust cooking times as needed.

How do I serve Slow Cooker Chicken Stew?

This stew pairs nicely with crusty bread or over rice, making it a hearty meal option.

Final Thoughts

Slow cooker chicken stew is a comforting dish perfect for chilly days. Its creamy texture without cream makes it unique and enjoyable. Plus, it’s versatile—feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or herbs! Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!

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