If you’re searching for a heartwarming, fuss-free meal that fills your home with irresistible aromas and comforts the soul, this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe is exactly what you need. Picture tender chicken thighs simmered to perfection alongside colorful carrots, potatoes, and celery, all enveloped in a rich, herby broth that just melts in your mouth. It’s the kind of dish that invites cozy family dinners, lazy weekend lunches, or any time you crave a hearty, nourishing bowl without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become one of your favorite go-to meals!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Behind this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe is a lineup of simple but incredibly flavorful ingredients that work together beautifully. Each one adds a unique touch—whether it’s texture, aroma, or that vibrant pop of natural sweetness—making this stew both satisfying and nutritious.
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs: These stay tender and juicy after slow cooking, perfect for developing rich flavor.
- 4 medium carrots, sliced: Add slight sweetness and a lovely orange hue to the stew.
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed: These thicken the stew while offering creamy, comforting bites.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped: Bring subtle earthiness and a little crunch.
- 1 medium onion, diced: A foundational flavor that gives the stew its savory depth.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Infuse each spoonful with warm, aromatic undertones.
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt: Enhances all the natural flavors without overpowering.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of mild heat and complexity.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers a fragrant, earthy note that pairs perfectly with chicken.
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary: Deepens herbal complexity, giving the stew a classic comfort flavor.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Boosts richness and provides a subtle tangy backdrop.
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth: The hearty base that brings everything together and keeps it light on sodium.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch: Used to thicken the stew gently for a luscious texture.
- 2 tablespoons water: Mixed with cornstarch to form a slurry that thickens without lumps.
- 1 cup frozen peas (added at end): Adds bursts of sweetness and vibrant green color just before serving.
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Brightens the dish with fresh herbal notes and a pop of color.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Ingredients
Start by placing the chicken thighs, sliced carrots, cubed potatoes, chopped celery, diced onion, and minced garlic in your slow cooker. Add salt, black pepper, dried thyme, rosemary, tomato paste, and pour the low-sodium chicken broth over everything. Give it a good stir to blend all those gorgeous flavors well before covering the slow cooker.
Step 2: Let It Cook Low and Slow
Set your slow cooker to low and let it work its magic for 7 to 8 hours. Alternatively, if you’re short on time, choose the high setting for 4 to 5 hours. During this period, the chicken will become incredibly tender and the vegetables will soak up all the herbal goodness in the broth, turning this stew into a bowl of pure comfort.
Step 3: Thicken the Stew
Once the cooking time is up, whisk together the cornstarch and water to make a smooth slurry. Stir this mixture gently into the stew and then add the frozen peas. Increase the heat to high and let the stew cook for 15 to 20 more minutes, so it thickens a bit and the peas become tender yet still vibrant and lightly crisp.
Step 4: Final Seasoning Check
Give your stew a final taste and adjust the seasoning if needed—maybe a pinch more salt or pepper, depending on your preference. This simple step ensures every bite bursts with perfectly balanced flavor before serving.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds an inviting freshness and a lovely contrast to the warm, rich stew. It’s a small touch, but it makes the dish feel that much more special.
Side Dishes
This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe is wonderfully satisfying on its own, but pairing it with some crusty bread or warm dinner rolls lets you soak up every bit of the delicious broth. For a lighter touch, a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance to this hearty dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For entertaining or a family-style feast, serve the stew in rustic bowls right from the slow cooker to keep it cozy and casual. Another fun idea is to ladle the stew over creamy mashed potatoes or buttery egg noodles, transforming it into a more indulgent plate perfect for chilly evenings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe, store any leftovers in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making your next meals even tastier.
Freezing
This stew freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Just remember to leave some space at the top to allow for expansion as it freezes.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, thaw the stew overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Avoid boiling to preserve the tender textures and vibrant flavors.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but thighs tend to stay more tender and juicy during the long cooking process, making them ideal for this stew.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe is naturally gluten-free, especially if you use gluten-free chicken broth and check that your cornstarch is certified gluten-free.
Can I prepare this stew in advance?
Definitely. You can assemble all the ingredients the night before in the slow cooker insert, cover, and refrigerate. Just start cooking the next day for a convenient no-fuss meal.
How can I make the stew thicker?
If you prefer a thicker stew, you can add a bit more cornstarch slurry in the final step or let the stew cook uncovered for 15-20 minutes to reduce the broth slightly.
Can I add other vegetables?
Feel free to customize! Vegetables like parsnips, turnips, or green beans work well. Just keep in mind cooking times may vary slightly depending on what you add.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe is truly a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients coming together to create a dish that’s as comforting as it is flavorful. It’s a perfect example of how slow cooking can transform everyday foods into a nourishing and memorable meal with minimal effort. I can’t wait for you to try it and share it around your own table, warm hearts and bellies alike!
Print
Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is a hearty and comforting meal, packed with tender chicken thighs, fresh vegetables, and flavorful herbs. Perfect for an easy, hands-off dinner, this stew simmers slowly to develop rich flavors and a satisfying texture, making it ideal for family meals or meal prep. The inclusion of frozen peas towards the end keeps the dish vibrant and fresh, while optional fresh parsley adds a lovely garnish.
Ingredients
Chicken and Vegetables
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
- 4 medium carrots, sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Seasonings and Liquids
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
Thickening and Garnish
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 cup frozen peas (added at end)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Add the chicken chunks, sliced carrots, cubed potatoes, chopped celery, diced onion, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, dried thyme, dried rosemary, tomato paste, and chicken broth into the slow cooker. Stir gently to evenly distribute all ingredients.
- Slow Cook the Stew: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 7 to 8 hours, or on high heat for 4 to 5 hours. Cook until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables have become tender.
- Prepare Thickening Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth. This mixture will help thicken the stew toward the end of cooking.
- Thicken and Add Peas: Stir the cornstarch slurry into the stew. Add the frozen peas and switch the slow cooker to high heat. Continue cooking for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, or until the stew thickens slightly and the peas are heated through.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the stew and adjust seasoning as desired. Serve the hot stew garnished with fresh parsley if using.
Notes
- For enhanced flavor, sear the chicken pieces in a skillet before adding to the slow cooker, and sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant.
- Chicken breasts can be used as a substitute, but thighs remain juicier and more tender during the long cooking process.
- This stew freezes well and can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
