Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe

Name: Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, chopped; 4 medium carrots, sliced; 3 medium potatoes, diced; 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp dried rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is a comforting dish packed with tender chicken and hearty vegetables, perfect for any day of the week.

Created by

Chloe Sullivan

Last updated on 2025-12-09T22:13:11.205Z

This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is not just a meal; it's a warm embrace in a bowl. Perfect for busy days, it allows you to come home to a deliciously cooked dinner without the stress of cooking after a long day.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Hearty and wholesome ingredients that nourish the soul
Easy preparation with minimal cleanup
Perfect for meal prepping and leftovers

      

The Benefits of Using a Slow Cooker

Slow cookers are a game-changer in the kitchen, allowing you to prepare delicious meals with minimal effort. By cooking your ingredients slowly and at low temperatures, you can enhance the flavors and tenderness of your chicken and vegetables. This method not only saves time but also allows for hands-off cooking, freeing you up to tackle other tasks or simply enjoy your day.

Another benefit of slow cooking is the ability to use less expensive cuts of meat, like chicken thighs, which become incredibly tender when cooked over an extended period. This makes slow cooker recipes like this chicken stew an economical choice for families, providing a hearty meal without breaking the bank.

Ingredient Versatility

One of the best aspects of this slow cooker chicken stew is its versatility. While the recipe calls for chicken thighs, you can easily substitute with chicken breasts or even turkey if you prefer. Additionally, the vegetables can be customized based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Consider adding green beans, peas, or even a handful of spinach for a pop of color and nutrition.

Herbs and spices are also key players in this dish. While thyme and rosemary provide a classic flavor profile, you can experiment with other seasonings like bay leaves, parsley, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little kick. This flexibility allows you to tailor the stew to your family's tastes, ensuring everyone will enjoy it.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This slow cooker chicken stew is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts. Make a large batch on the weekend, and you'll have several meals ready to go throughout the week. The stew stores well in the refrigerator for up to four days, and it also freezes beautifully. Just portion it into airtight containers and freeze for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Leftovers can be reinvented too! Use the chicken stew as a filling for tacos or burritos, or serve it over rice or noodles for a quick and satisfying meal. This recipe not only saves you time but also reduces food waste, making it a win-win for your kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Stew

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, chopped
4 medium carrots, sliced
3 medium potatoes, diced
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil

Gather these simple ingredients to create a delicious stew.

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft.

Combine in Slow Cooker

Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic to the slow cooker. Add the chopped chicken, carrots, potatoes, chicken broth, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and vegetables are cooked through.

Serve

Once cooked, stir gently and serve hot. Enjoy your comforting chicken stew!

Enjoy your meal with some crusty bread!

Tips for the Best Chicken Stew

To ensure your chicken stew turns out perfectly, consider browning the chicken thighs before adding them to the slow cooker. This step adds depth of flavor and enhances the overall richness of the dish. Additionally, don’t skip the sautéing of the onions and garlic, as this will infuse the stew with aromatic goodness right from the start.

For a thicker stew, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water and stir it into the stew during the last hour of cooking. This will help give your stew a heartier consistency, making it even more satisfying.

Storing and Reheating

When storing your chicken stew, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This will help prevent condensation, which can lead to sogginess. If you plan to freeze it, label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.

To reheat, simply place the stew in a pot over medium heat and stir occasionally until warmed through. If the stew has thickened in the fridge or freezer, you may want to add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty chicken stew pairs beautifully with crusty bread, perfect for dipping and soaking up all the flavorful broth. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette can also complement the richness of the stew, adding a refreshing crunch to your meal.

For an extra touch, consider garnishing the stew with fresh herbs like parsley or a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a burst of freshness that elevates the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but thighs tend to be more flavorful and tender.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, green beans, or peas for added nutrition.

→ Is it possible to make this stew in a stovetop pot?

Yes, you can simmer it in a pot over low heat for about 1.5 to 2 hours.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.