Why You’ll Love This Chicken Stew
This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is a comforting dish that warms your heart and fills your belly. The combination of tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and rich broth creates a satisfying meal everyone will enjoy. Plus, using a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it—perfect for busy days! Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner or meal prep for the week, this recipe has you covered.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chicken Stew
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 3 carrots, diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Directions
Step 1: Start by searing the chicken in a hot skillet until it gets a nice golden brown color. This step adds flavor to your stew.
Step 2: Place the seared chicken, diced vegetables, potatoes, minced garlic, and bay leaves into your slow cooker.
Step 3: Sprinkle the thyme, salt, and pepper over everything, then give it a good stir to mix the flavors.
Step 4: Pour in the chicken broth. If you’re using flour to thicken, whisk it with a bit of broth or water first, then add it in. Alternately, you can just sprinkle it over and stir.
Step 5: Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken and vegetables are tender.
Step 6: Once done, remove the bay leaves. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, then serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if you like.
Serving Your Delicious Stew
Serve this Chicken Stew hot and steaming in bowls. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal. Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for that extra touch and flavor!
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to reheat, gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. If the stew has thickened in the fridge, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.
Handy Tips for Making the Best Stew
- For extra flavor, consider adding herbs like rosemary or basil.
- You can also throw in other veggies like peas or green beans for variety.
- If you prefer a creamier stew, add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk just before serving.
Variations to Try
Feel free to switch up the protein! You can use turkey or even beef instead of chicken for a different twist. Also, experimenting with spices like paprika or even a dash of hot sauce can kick the flavor up a notch!
Nutritional Information
Each serving (approximately 1 cup) contains around 350 calories, with a good balance of protein, carbs, and fats. It’s rich in nutrients thanks to the variety of vegetables used.
Family Serving Ideas
This stew makes for ideal family meals. Serve it alongside a simple side salad or some roasted vegetables to round out the meal.
Ideal Pairings
Pair your Chicken Stew with some crusty bread, rice, or even a fresh garden salad. A glass of light red wine also complements the flavors nicely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: Yes! You can use frozen chicken, but it may take a little longer to cook.
Q: Can I make this stew in advance?
A: Absolutely! This dish tastes even better the next day, so feel free to make it ahead of time.
Q: What should I do if it’s too thick?
A: If your stew is too thick, simply stir in some extra broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.
Enjoy making and sharing this comforting Slow Cooker Chicken Stew!
Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 3 pieces carrots, diced
- 3 stalks celery, diced
- 1 piece onion, diced
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 leaves bay leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by searing the chicken in a hot skillet until it gets a nice golden brown color to enhance the flavor of your stew.
- Place the seared chicken, diced vegetables, potatoes, minced garlic, and bay leaves into your slow cooker.
- Sprinkle the thyme, salt, and pepper over everything, and stir well to mix the flavors.
- Pour in the chicken broth. If using flour to thicken, whisk it with a bit of broth or water first before adding it in. Alternatively, you can sprinkle it over and stir.
Cooking
- Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken and vegetables are tender.
- Once done, remove the bay leaves, taste, and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
