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; 4 medium carrots, chopped; 3 medium potatoes, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp dried rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe is the perfect comfort meal for chilly evenings, packed with hearty vegetables and tender chicken, all simmered to perfection.

Created by

Sienna Brooks

Last updated on 2025-12-18T14:35:29.637Z

This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is a family favorite, combining the tenderness of slow-cooked chicken with a medley of vegetables. It’s not just easy to make; it fills your home with a wonderful aroma that brings everyone to the table.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Comforting and hearty, perfect for cold days
Hands-off cooking with minimal prep time
Packed with nutritious vegetables and flavorful herbs

      

A Hearty Meal for Every Occasion

This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is not just a meal; it's a warm embrace on a cold day. With its rich flavors and comforting textures, it’s the kind of dish that brings families together. Whether you’re coming home from a long day at work or gathering for a Sunday dinner, this stew fits the bill perfectly. Pair it with some crusty bread, and you have a meal that satisfies both the stomach and the soul.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. While it’s packed with flavors, the preparation is minimal. Just chop your veggies, season your chicken, and let your slow cooker do the magic. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or even meal prepping for the week ahead. You can set it up in the morning, and by dinner time, you’ll have a delicious, home-cooked meal waiting for you.

Nutritious and Flavorful Ingredients

The combination of boneless, skinless chicken thighs with a medley of fresh vegetables ensures that each serving is not only delicious but also nutritious. Carrots and potatoes are excellent sources of vitamins, while the herbs bring in distinct flavors that elevate the dish. Each ingredient in this stew is carefully chosen to contribute to a well-balanced meal that everyone will love.

Using chicken broth as a base adds depth to the stew, infusing it with a savory richness that enhances the flavors of the vegetables and chicken. You can opt for low-sodium broth to control the salt levels, making it a healthier option without sacrificing taste. This recipe is adaptable, allowing you to incorporate any seasonal vegetables you have on hand for added nutrition and a twist on the flavor.

Make It Your Own

While this recipe is delightful on its own, there are countless ways to customize your Slow Cooker Chicken Stew. Consider adding beans for extra protein or a splash of white wine for added depth of flavor. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste. A pinch of paprika or a dash of cayenne can give your stew a little kick, while fresh parsley or dill can add a burst of freshness right before serving.

For those looking to make this dish even heartier, throw in some frozen peas or corn in the last few minutes of cooking. This not only adds color but also enhances the nutritional profile of the stew. With a few simple tweaks, you can create variations that will keep this recipe exciting each time you prepare it.

Ingredients

For the Stew

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

Combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker for a delicious meal.

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Chop the carrots, potatoes, and onion. Mince the garlic and set aside.

Combine in Slow Cooker

Place the chicken, chopped vegetables, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper in the slow cooker. Pour the chicken broth over the top.

Cook

Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.

Serve

Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the stew. Serve hot, and enjoy!

Enjoy your delicious, homemade chicken stew!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the broth.

Tips for the Best Stew

To ensure your chicken remains tender, avoid overcooking it. The low setting on your slow cooker is ideal for allowing the chicken to become melt-in-your-mouth delicious. If you’re short on time, you can also cook on high for 3-4 hours, but be mindful of the cooking time to maintain optimal texture.

Using fresh herbs can make a significant difference in flavor, so if you have access to them, feel free to substitute dried herbs with fresh ones. Just remember to adjust the quantities, as fresh herbs are often more potent than their dried counterparts.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store your stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheating can be done on the stove or in the microwave. If the stew thickens too much in the fridge, simply add a splash of water or broth when reheating to achieve your desired consistency.

For longer storage, consider freezing the stew. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just ensure it’s cooled completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stove for the best results.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Slow Cooker Chicken Stew with a side of warm, crusty bread or over a bed of fluffy rice for a delightful meal. You can also pair it with a light salad for a refreshing balance to the hearty stew. This dish is versatile enough to be served as a standalone meal or as part of a larger feast.

For added flavor, consider garnishing your stew with freshly chopped herbs or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese just before serving. These small touches can elevate the dish and leave your guests asking for seconds!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may become drier than thighs during cooking.

→ Can I make this stew in advance?

Absolutely! This stew can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving.

→ What vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add vegetables like peas, corn, or green beans for extra flavor and nutrition.

→ How can I thicken the stew?

You can thicken the stew by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stirring it into the stew during the last hour of cooking.