Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe

Why Make This Recipe

Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is a perfect dish for busy days. It’s hearty, warm, and full of flavor. Using a slow cooker makes it easy to prepare, allowing you to set it and forget it.

When you come home, you’ll find a delicious meal ready to enjoy. This stew is not only comforting but also a great way to use up vegetables you have on hand.

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

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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: Sear the chicken in a hot skillet until golden brown.
Step 2: Place the seared chicken, diced vegetables, potatoes, minced garlic, and bay leaves into the slow cooker.
Step 3: Sprinkle thyme, salt, and pepper over the ingredients and stir to distribute the flavors.
Step 4: Pour in the chicken broth. If using flour, whisk it with a little broth or water before adding, or sprinkle over and stir to thicken.
Step 5: Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until chicken and vegetables are tender.
Step 6: Remove bay leaves, taste and adjust seasoning, and serve garnished with fresh parsley.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Serve your Chicken Stew hot in bowls. It goes well with crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal. You can add a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for a nice touch. Enjoy it as a comforting family dinner or serve it at gatherings with friends.

How to Store Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

To store leftover Chicken Stew, let it cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container and label it with the date. It can last in the freezer for about 3 months.

Tips to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

• For extra flavor, use homemade chicken broth if you have it.
• Feel free to add other vegetables like peas, green beans, or corn.
• If you prefer a thicker stew, add the flour as described in the directions.
• Searing the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker enhances its flavor.

Variation

You can easily make this stew with other meats like beef or turkey. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly. You can also switch up the spices to introduce different flavors, such as paprika or rosemary.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just remember that it may take longer to cook through, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. Can I omit the tomato paste?
Yes, you can skip the tomato paste if you prefer. However, it adds a nice depth of flavor to the stew.

3. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, simply omit the all-purpose flour or use a gluten-free flour blend for thickening. Check that your chicken broth and any other ingredients are gluten-free as well.