Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

A hearty Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is the perfect comfort food for chilly days or busy weeknights. This dish combines tender chicken with vibrant vegetables, all simmered to perfection in your slow cooker. With minimal prep time and the ability to serve a crowd, this recipe is versatile enough for family dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead. The creamy texture without any cream makes it a standout choice for anyone looking to enjoy rich flavors while keeping things light.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work for you.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of herbs, garlic, and broth creates a deeply satisfying taste.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or adjust seasonings to suit your palate.
• Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with protein and fiber, this stew is a wholesome meal choice.
• Great Leftovers: This stew stores well and tastes even better the next day.

Tools and Preparation

To get started on your slow cooker chicken stew, gather the necessary tools for an efficient cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Large Skillet
• Cutting Board
• Sharp Knife
• Measuring Cups and Spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: This is essential for slow cooking the chicken and vegetables until they are tender and flavorful.
• Large Skillet: Ideal for searing the chicken, enhancing its flavor before it’s added to the slow cooker.
• Cutting Board: A stable surface is crucial for safely chopping vegetables and meat.
• Sharp Knife: A well-sharpened knife makes quick work of dicing ingredients.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 1/2 pounds chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/2 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
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup green peas, frozen
• Black pepper, to season

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Place chicken on a cutting board, dice into 1-inch pieces, and season generously with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for about 4-5 minutes until browned on all sides. Remember, you don’t need to cook them fully; just sear them for flavor.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Once the chicken is browned, transfer it to the slow cooker. Sprinkle in flour, thyme, rosemary, and salt. Stir until all pieces are well coated with flour and herbs.

Step 4: Add Vegetables

Add garlic, onion, carrots, and potatoes to the slow cooker. Stir everything together before pouring in the chicken broth. Don’t forget to add the bay leaf!

Step 5: Cook

Cover your slow cooker. Cook on low for about 7-8 hours or on high for around 3-4 hours until everything is tender.

Step 6: Add Peas and Milk

When cooking time is up, stir in frozen peas and milk. Cover again and cook on high for an additional 10-15 minutes until peas are warmed through. Adjust thickness by adding more flour if too thin or a splash of broth if too thick.

Step 7: Season Before Serving

Taste your stew before serving to adjust salt and pepper as needed.

Step 8: Store Leftovers

Serve immediately! Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days or frozen for three months.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Serving slow cooker chicken stew is a delightful experience that can be customized to your taste. This hearty dish is perfect for sharing with family and friends, and you can enhance it with various accompaniments.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Chopped parsley or cilantro can brighten up the dish and add fresh flavor.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Serve warm, crusty bread on the side for dipping into the rich broth.

Top with Sour Cream

• A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the flavors beautifully.

Accompany with Rice

• Serve over cooked rice to soak up the delicious sauce for a filling meal.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

To achieve the best slow cooker chicken stew, consider these essential tips. They will help elevate your dish to new heights.

• Sear the Chicken: Browning the chicken enhances its flavor and adds depth to the stew.
• Use Quality Broth: A good chicken broth makes all the difference. Opt for homemade or low-sodium store-bought options.
• Layer Ingredients: Place denser vegetables like potatoes at the bottom of the slow cooker, followed by lighter ingredients on top for even cooking.
• Adjust Thickness: If your stew is too thin, add a bit more flour mixed with water; if too thick, stir in some additional broth.
• Season Gradually: Taste before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed to enhance flavor without overpowering it.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Pairing side dishes with slow cooker chicken stew can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread
   A warm, buttery garlic bread complements the stew perfectly and is great for soaking up extra broth.

2. Mixed Green Salad
   A simple salad with vinaigrette offers a fresh contrast to the rich flavors of the stew.

3. Steamed Vegetables
   Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans add color and nutrients without overshadowing the main dish.

4. Quinoa
   This protein-packed grain is an excellent base that absorbs flavors well and adds texture.

5. Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes serve as a comforting side that pairs wonderfully with the stew’s savory elements.

6. Cornbread
   Sweet cornbread provides a delightful contrast to savory dishes, making it an ideal partner for chicken stew.

7. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts offer a delicious crunch while balancing out the meal’s richness.

8. Polenta
   Creamy polenta serves as a flavorful base that absorbs all those tasty juices from your stew.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make your slow cooker chicken stew perfectly every time, steer clear of these common mistakes.

• Skipping the Searing Step: Not browning the chicken can lead to a less flavorful stew. Always sear the chicken first to enhance its taste.
• Overcrowding the Slow Cooker: Adding too many ingredients can prevent proper cooking. Stick to the recipe’s ingredient amounts for best results.
• Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments: Tasting your stew before serving is crucial. Adjust salt and pepper levels at the end for desired flavor.
• Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Dried or old herbs and vegetables can dull flavors. Use fresh produce and spices for a vibrant taste.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Cooking on high for too short a time may leave ingredients undercooked. Follow recommended cooking times closely for tender meat and veggies.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in intervals, stirring between until hot.
• Stovetop: Transfer to a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries about slow cooker chicken stew that might help you with your cooking journey.

How can I make my Slow Cooker Chicken Stew thicker?

You can add more flour or cornstarch mixed with water towards the end of cooking to achieve your desired thickness.

Can I use other types of meat in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey, beef, or lamb for different flavors.

What vegetables work best in Slow Cooker Chicken Stew?

Root vegetables like parsnips, turnips, and sweet potatoes add great flavor. Feel free to experiment!

How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Chicken Stew?

Cooking on low takes about 7-8 hours while high settings require only 3-4 hours for perfect tenderness.

Final Thoughts

This creamy slow cooker chicken stew without cream is not just comforting but also versatile. You can customize it with various vegetables or spices to suit your taste. We encourage you to try this recipe; it’s perfect for chilly days!

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Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Warm up your chilly evenings with this delightful Slow Cooker Chicken Stew, a comforting dish that brings together tender chicken and vibrant vegetables simmered to perfection. This easy-to-follow recipe requires minimal prep time and is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead. With no cream needed, the stew boasts a creamy texture that’s both rich in flavor and light on calories. It’s versatile too; feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or adjust the seasonings to suit your taste. Plus, it makes for excellent leftovers that taste even better the next day!

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Ingredients

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• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 1/2 pounds chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/2 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
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup green peas, frozen
• Black pepper, to season

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Instructions

1. Season the diced chicken with salt and pepper.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sear the chicken until browned (4-5 minutes).
3. Transfer the chicken to a slow cooker; add flour, thyme, rosemary, salt, garlic, onion, carrots, potatoes, broth, and bay leaf. Stir well.
4. Cover and cook on low for about 7-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. In the last few minutes of cooking, stir in frozen peas and milk; cover again until warmed through.
6. Adjust seasoning before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 7 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooker
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 85mg