Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is the perfect dish for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. With a prep time of less than 10 minutes, this hearty stew allows you to fill your slow cooker and let it do all the work. Packed with protein, vibrant veggies, and comforting flavors, this stew is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or preparing meals for the week, this recipe is both satisfying and nutritious.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is a delightful meal that offers many advantages.

• Easy Preparation: You only need a few minutes to chop ingredients and let the slow cooker do the rest.
• Rich Flavor: The blend of spices and tender chicken creates a savory taste everyone will love.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what’s in season or your family’s preferences.
• Hearty Meal: This stew is packed with protein and fiber, making it filling and nutritious.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Medium bowl
• Whisk
• Chopping board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This handy appliance cooks food evenly over several hours, resulting in tender meats and rich flavors.
• Medium bowl: Perfect for mixing sauces and seasonings without creating a mess.
• Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly, ensuring even distribution of flavors in your stew.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (fat trimmed and cut into 1-inch chunks)

For the Vegetables

• 1 ½ cups yellow onion (diced)
• 5 carrots (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 pound baby Yukon gold potatoes
• 3 celery sticks (chopped)

For the Broth & Seasonings

• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ tablespoon tomato paste
• 4 teaspoons garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves

For Thickening & Finishing Touches

• ½ cup milk
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• 1 ¼ cups frozen peas

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How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by adding the chicken, onions, carrots, potatoes, and celery into your slow cooker.

Step 2: Mix the Broth

In a medium bowl, combine the chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, minced garlic, poultry seasoning, black pepper, salt, rosemary, and thyme. Whisk until fully combined. Pour this mixture over the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker. Place bay leaves on top.

Step 3: Cook the Stew

Cover your slow cooker. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours until everything is tender.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together milk and cornstarch until smooth. Add this slurry along with frozen peas into your slow cooker. Cook for an additional 20 minutes to thicken the sauce.

Step 5: Serve

Remove bay leaves before serving. Stir well to combine all ingredients and enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Stew!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Serving Slow Cooker Chicken Stew can elevate your dining experience. This hearty dish pairs well with various sides and garnishes, allowing you to create a comforting meal that your family will love.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Thyme Sprigs: Add a few sprigs of thyme for an aromatic touch that complements the stew’s flavors.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• White Rice: Serve the stew over fluffy white rice to soak up the delicious broth.
• Quinoa: For a healthier option, quinoa adds protein and a nutty flavor to the dish.

With Crusty Bread

• French Baguette: A warm slice of French baguette is perfect for dipping into the rich stew.
• Sourdough Bread: Enjoy sourdough bread for its tangy flavor and chewy texture that pairs wonderfully with the stew.

In Bowls

• Individual Bowls: Serve in individual bowls for a cozy, personal experience at the table.
• Bread Bowls: For a fun twist, serve the stew in edible bread bowls.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Making the perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Stew requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to enhance your cooking experience:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality chicken can significantly impact the flavor of your stew.
• Layer Flavors: Sautéing onions and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker can deepen the overall taste.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste halfway through cooking and adjust salt and pepper as needed for optimal flavor.
• Thicken Wisely: Use cornstarch slurry towards the end for a thicker consistency without overcooking.
• Let it Rest: Allowing your stew to sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking enhances flavor melding.

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Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Chicken Stew can create a balanced meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic are perfect for soaking up every drop of stew.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Crisp-tender broccoli adds color and nutrients while balancing the richness of the stew.
3. Garden Salad: A light garden salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty stew.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These caramelized sprouts add crunch and depth, complementing the soft textures of the stew.
5. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread offers a delightful pairing, adding warmth and sweetness alongside your meal.
6. Cauliflower Rice: For low-carb diets, cauliflower rice is a great substitute that absorbs flavors beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Chicken Stew, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Not trimming the chicken properly. Leaving excess fat on the chicken can lead to a greasy stew. Always trim the fat before cutting the chicken into chunks.
• Overcrowding the slow cooker. Adding too many ingredients can affect cooking time and texture. Stick to the recipe for balanced flavors and proper cooking.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments. Each brand of broth may vary in saltiness. Taste your stew before serving and adjust seasonings as needed for optimal flavor.
• Skipping the cornstarch slurry step. This thickens your stew and gives it a rich texture. Don’t skip this step if you want a delightful consistency.
• Failing to remove bay leaves before serving. Bay leaves are not edible and should be removed once cooking is complete. Check carefully to ensure none remain in the dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Can be kept for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Instructions

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place stew in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 30 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until heated through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until warmed thoroughly, about 10-15 minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew so easy?

This recipe requires minimal prep time and only one pot, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Can I customize my Slow Cooker Chicken Stew?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust spices according to your taste preferences.

How do I make this stew gluten-free?

Ensure you use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and check all other ingredients for gluten-free labels.

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

Cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours for tender chicken and flavorful broth.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is an easy, hearty meal that brings comfort with every bite. It’s versatile enough to adapt with different veggies or spices, allowing you to create a dish tailored to your family’s tastes. Give this recipe a try—it’s sure to become a family favorite!