Looking for a meal to warm you up on a cold day? This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is perfect. It has tender chicken, fresh veggies, and savory herbs. It’s the ultimate comfort food for cold weather.
And the best part? Your slow cooker does most of the work. This means you get a rich, flavorful stew ready when you need it. It’s great for feeding a crowd or treating yourself. This recipe is sure to become a favorite.
This stew is not only delicious but also healthy. It’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and fits Paleo or Whole30 diets. With tender chicken, hearty veggies, and comforting spices, it’s sure to warm your soul and please your taste buds.
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Perfect Comfort Food for Cold Weather Days
Winter’s chill is the perfect time for a warm, homemade chicken stew. This slow cooker family-friendly chicken stew is ideal for cold, dreary days. It’s filled with tender chicken, veggies, and a rich broth, making it a true comfort food.
Why This Recipe Works
This healthy chicken stew shines because of its tender chicken and fresh veggies. They simmer together in the slow cooker, blending flavors over time. The result is a one-pot chicken stew full of taste and texture.
Health Benefits of Homemade Stew
This family-friendly chicken stew is not just tasty; it’s also good for you. It combines lean protein, complex carbs, and fiber-rich veggies. This mix makes for a balanced, nutritious meal that keeps you full and energized.
Time-Saving Benefits
The slow cooker makes this one-pot chicken stew incredibly convenient. With a quick prep, you can let it cook while you do other things. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or relaxing weekends.
Essential Ingredients for Your Chicken Stew
Creating the perfect slow cooker chicken stew recipe starts with the right ingredients. This dish is a crowd-pleaser, especially on cold days. Let’s explore the key ingredients for a delicious chicken stew.
The heart of the stew is boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts). These will become tender in the slow cooker. You’ll also need potatoes, carrots, onions, and garlic for the vegetables.
The broth is crucial for your chicken stew. Use chicken stock or broth for a savory base. To thicken, add flour or a cornstarch slurry. Herbs like thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf enhance the flavor.
For a dairy-free option, try almond milk or another non-dairy milk. If you’re on a paleo diet, coconut aminos can replace soy sauce.
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a slow cooker chicken stew that will warm your heart and taste buds.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
To make the delicious crockpot chicken stew or slow cooker chicken stew recipe, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. The most important tool is a large, 6-quart capacity slow cooker. This size ensures you have enough room for all the ingredients, making a hearty stew.
You’ll also need a sharp chef’s knife for cutting the vegetables and chicken. A sturdy cutting board is essential for this task. Measuring cups and spoons help you measure the ingredients accurately. A wooden spoon is perfect for stirring the stew gently as it cooks.
Slow Cooker Specifications
Recipe testing showed that a 6-quart slow cooker works best for this crockpot chicken stew. This size gives enough room for all ingredients. It allows the flavors to blend together perfectly during the slow cooking.
Additional Tools Required
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
- Skillet (optional, for browning the chicken)
- Small bowl (for mixing the cornstarch slurry, if needed to thicken the stew)
With these essential tools, you’ll be ready to make a slow cooker chicken stew recipe that will wow your family and friends.
Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe
Make a hearty easy chicken stew with this tasty slow cooker chicken stew recipe. It’s perfect for cold weather. It has tender chicken, healthy veggies, and a rich broth that warms you up.
This stew feeds 6 people and cooks for 8 hours on low or 4 hours on high. You’ll need 3-4 lbs of chicken, sweet onions, celery, carrots, potatoes, and 3 cups of chicken broth.
To thicken it, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of hot liquid. Stir this slurry into the stew for the last 30 minutes. This makes the stew creamy and delicious.
Best served with crusty bread or rolls to catch all the broth. This slow cooker chicken stew recipe is the ultimate comfort food for a chilly day.
| Nutrition Facts | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 309kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 25g |
| Protein | 30g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Saturated Fat | 4g |
| Cholesterol | 83mg |
| Sodium | 417mg |
| Potassium | 1086mg |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sugar | 4g |
Preparing Your Vegetables and Chicken
Getting ready for your chicken stew is easy with the right steps. First, chop the onions, slice the carrots, and cut the potatoes into 1/2-inch cubes. This helps them cook evenly in the easy chicken stew. For the chicken, cut it into 1-inch cubes for the best texture.
Proper Cutting Techniques
For the best results, use these simple cutting tips:
- Onions: Cut the onions in half and then dice them into small pieces.
- Carrots: Peel and slice the carrots into thin rounds or half-moons.
- Potatoes: Peel and cut the potatoes into 1/2-inch cubes, making sure they’re all the same size.
- Chicken: Remove excess fat and cut the chicken into 1-inch cubes for tender pieces.
Pre-cooking Tips
Here are some tips to make your chicken stew prep easier:
- Brown the chicken in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker. This step improves the flavor and texture of the meat.
- Prepare the vegetables and herbs the night before and keep them in the fridge. This saves you time in the morning.
By using these simple techniques and tips, you’ll make a delicious and easy chicken stew. It’s sure to please your taste buds.
Herbs and Seasonings Guide
Boosting the taste of your chicken stew is simple with the right herbs and seasonings. The essential ingredients for a flavorful comforting chicken stew include:
- Thyme – for its earthy, slightly minty notes
- Rosemary – to provide a woodsy, pine-like essence
- Bay leaf – for a subtle, slightly menthol-like flavor
- Garlic – to add a savory, pungent undertone
- Salt and pepper – to enhance and balance the other flavors
Adding a pinch of paprika or poultry seasoning can enhance the flavor. Fresh herbs offer the best taste, but dried herbs can be used at a 1:3 ratio.
For deeper umami, try coconut aminos or soy sauce. Remember to adjust the salt at the end for the perfect taste.
| Herb/Seasoning | Amount | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Thyme | 2 tbsp fresh or 2 tsp dried | Earthy, slightly minty |
| Rosemary | 1 tbsp fresh or 1 tsp dried | Woodsy, pine-like |
| Bay Leaf | 2 leaves | Subtle, slightly menthol-like |
| Garlic | 4 cloves, minced | Savory, pungent |
| Salt and Pepper | To taste | Enhances and balances flavors |
By choosing and adjusting these chicken stew ingredients carefully, you’ll make a comforting chicken stew full of flavor.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Preparing your slow cooker chicken stew is easy and delicious. Follow these steps to make your slow cooker chicken stew recipe perfect.
Initial Setup Phase
Start by adding chopped veggies like carrots, celery, and onions to the slow cooker. Add dried herbs and seasonings like thyme, rosemary, and garlic powder. These will give your stew a rich flavor. Finally, put the seasoned chicken breasts on top of the veggies.
Cooking Process
Next, pour in chicken broth to cover all the ingredients. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Wait until the chicken is tender and cooked.
Final Touches
In the last 30 minutes, take out the chicken and shred or dice it. Put the shredded chicken back in the slow cooker. Mix in a cornstarch slurry to thicken the stew. Let it cook for another 30 minutes, stirring now and then, until it’s thick enough.
After that, remove the bay leaf and any herb stems. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Your slow cooker chicken stew is now ready to be enjoyed!
How to Achieve the Perfect Stew Consistency
Getting the right consistency in your chicken stew is key to a great dish. A few simple tips can help your slow cooker chicken stew turn out just right. This ensures it’s both satisfying and delicious.
For a thicker stew, try a cornstarch slurry. Mix 1.5 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Then, stir this into the stew for the last 30 minutes with the lid off. This will thicken the broth, making it rich and velvety.
If you like your stew more like a soup, add more chicken broth. The starch from the potatoes will also thicken it as it cooks.
Adjust the liquid to your liking. For a thicker stew, use less broth. For a soup-like texture, add more broth until it’s right.
Start with the right amount of broth and adjust as you go. This way, you can make a chicken stew that’s both comforting and irresistible.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken Broth | 4 cups low sodium |
| Chicken | 2 lbs boneless, skinless thighs |
| Potatoes | 2 lbs gold potatoes |
| Onion | 1 yellow onion |
| Carrots | 5 large carrots |
| Celery | 4 celery ribs |
| Garlic | 4 cloves |
| Cornstarch Slurry | 1.5 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water |
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Enjoy the delicious easy chicken stew without worrying about food waste. This family-friendly chicken stew can be stored and reheated with ease. This way, you can enjoy its comforting flavors for a long time after cooking.
To store your leftover stew, simply transfer the cooled mixture to an airtight container. Then, refrigerate it for up to 4 days. For longer-term storage, the stew can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the frozen stew in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating the easy chicken stew is easy. You can warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, reheat individual portions in the microwave. However, this method may slightly affect the texture of the chicken. If the stew has thickened during storage, add a splash of broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.
For best results, consume the family-friendly chicken stew within 2-3 days of cooking. This ensures the ingredients stay fresh and the flavors are at their peak. With these simple storage and reheating guidelines, you can enjoy this hearty dish all week long.
Delicious Side Dish Pairings
Make your comforting chicken stew even better by adding tasty side dishes. The rich broth is perfect for dipping into, so try it with crusty bread, soft biscuits, or moist cornbread.
For a lighter option, pair it with a green salad or steamed veggies. The stew also goes well with white rice or egg noodles, making it a fuller meal.
For a bit of luxury, add sour cream or Greek yogurt. These creamy toppings match the stew’s savory taste. Enjoy it with a glass of crisp white wine for a special treat.
| Side Dish | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Crusty Bread | Soaks up the flavorful broth |
| Biscuits | Tender and comforting complement |
| Cornbread | Moist and slightly sweet pairing |
| Green Salad | Provides a refreshing contrast |
| Steamed Vegetables | Adds nutritional balance |
| Rice or Noodles | Transforms the stew into a heartier meal |
| Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt | Adds a creamy, tangy element |
| White Wine | Elevates the dining experience |
Try different sides to find the best match for your chicken stew. Whether it’s classic bread or a fresh salad, there are many ways to make this family-friendly chicken stew a hit.
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
Your slow cooker chicken stew recipe is easy to change up. Swap chicken thighs for boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you like white meat. For a dairy-free option, use almond milk or coconut milk instead of regular milk.
To make it gluten-free, try using cornstarch or arrowroot powder to thicken. These alternatives work well without gluten.
Don’t be afraid to change up the veggies too. Add sliced mushrooms, diced celery, or frozen peas for a different twist. If you want it spicier, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper.
For a quicker start, use a rotisserie chicken. Add it towards the end to keep it moist. The slow cooker makes it all easy, leaving you with a delicious stew for cold days.
Try different ingredients to find your family’s favorite. This versatile dish is perfect for experimenting and finding new flavors.
FAQ
What are the key ingredients in this slow cooker chicken stew recipe?
The main ingredients are boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, potatoes, carrots, onions, garlic, and peas. Chicken stock or broth makes the broth. Herbs like thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf add flavor.
What type of slow cooker is best for this recipe?
A large slow cooker, about 6 quarts, is best. It fits all the ingredients.
How long does this chicken stew take to cook in the slow cooker?
It cooks for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high.
Can this chicken stew be made gluten-free or dairy-free?
Yes, it’s easy to make it gluten-free and dairy-free. Use cornstarch or arrowroot instead of flour. Replace regular milk with almond or coconut milk.
How do I thicken the chicken stew to my desired consistency?
To thicken, mix 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with cold water. Add it to the stew in the last 30 minutes. The potatoes will also thicken it naturally.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs in this recipe?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts. But be careful, they might dry out. Watch the cooking time closely.
What are some good side dish options to serve with this chicken stew?
Serve it with crusty bread, biscuits, or cornbread. These soak up the broth well. A simple green salad or steamed veggies are also good options.
Can I make any other variations to this chicken stew recipe?
Yes, you can add mushrooms, celery, or frozen peas. For spice, add red pepper flakes or cayenne. Use a rotisserie chicken for quicker prep, adding it towards the end.
