Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe

Why Make This Recipe

Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is a comforting and hearty dish that warms you from the inside out. It’s perfect for busy days, as it requires minimal hands-on time and fills your home with delicious aromas. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables, and it’s an excellent way to use up any leftovers in your fridge. Plus, it’s a complete meal in one pot, making cleanup easy!

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How to Make Slow Cooker 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:

1. Sear the Chicken: Start by searing the chicken in a hot skillet until golden brown. This adds great flavor to the dish.
2. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Place the seared chicken, diced vegetables, cubed potatoes, minced garlic, and bay leaves into the slow cooker.
3. Season: Sprinkle thyme, salt, and pepper over the ingredients. Stir to mix everything well.
4. Add Broth: Pour in the chicken broth. If you’re using flour to thicken, whisk it with a bit of broth or water, then add it, or sprinkle it over and stir.
5. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken and vegetables are tender.
6. Finish Up: Remove the bay leaves, taste, adjust seasoning if needed, and serve garnished with fresh parsley if you like.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Serve your chicken stew hot, alongside crusty bread or over a bed of rice. You can also top it with fresh parsley for a touch of color. This stew is filling on its own, but it pairs nicely with a side salad or steamed vegetables.

How to Store Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Once cooled, store any leftover chicken stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Tips to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

• Customize: Feel free to add other vegetables like green beans, peas, or bell peppers based on your preferences.
• Thickening: If you prefer a thicker stew, add the optional flour or let it cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes.
• Extra Flavor: For a richer taste, consider adding a splash of white wine or some herbs like rosemary or oregano.

Variation

You can make a creamy version of this stew by stirring in some heavy cream or half-and-half just before serving. This will give the stew a rich and comforting texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but adjust the cooking time. It will take a bit longer to cook through, so ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

2. Can I add more spices?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs for additional flavor, such as paprika or cayenne for some heat.

3. Is this recipe healthy?
Yes, this stew is quite healthy! It’s packed with vegetables and lean protein. You can make it even healthier by using low-sodium broth and watching the salt content.

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