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This slow cooker chicken stew is the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. It combines tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and cozy herbs for a comforting dish that’s simple to prepare but full of rich, homey flavor.
I first made this stew when I wanted something filling without fussing over the stove, and now it’s a go-to for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays around here.
Ingredients
- Chicken thighs or breasts: use thighs for juicier meat, breasts work well if you prefer leaner cuts
- Carrots celery and onions: diced for even cooking and a base of natural sweetness
- Potatoes: peeled and cubed for body and creaminess choose firm varieties like Yukon Gold for best texture
- Garlic cloves minced: adds a punch of savory aroma and depth
- Low-sodium chicken broth: the cooking liquid that brings everything together without overwhelming saltiness
- Tomato paste: adds a subtle richness and slight tang opt for high-quality pastes for best flavor
- Dried thyme: an earthy herb that complements the chicken beautifully
- Bay leaves: infuse subtle herbal notes during slow cooking
- Salt and pepper: to taste for seasoning and balance
- Flour: optional for thickening if you prefer a stew with more body
- Fresh parsley chopped: adds color and fresh brightness as a garnish
Instructions
- Sear the Chicken:
- Heat a skillet over medium-high and cook the chicken pieces until golden brown on all sides. This step caramelizes the surface to deepen flavor for the stew. It takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Transfer the chicken to the slow cooker.
- Load Up the Slow Cooker:
- Add the diced carrots celery onions cubed potatoes and minced garlic to the slow cooker. Nestle in the seared chicken pieces and add the bay leaves on top.
- Add Seasonings:
- Sprinkle the dried thyme salt and pepper evenly over the ingredients in the slow cooker. Give everything a gentle stir to distribute the flavors but avoid stirring the chicken and potatoes too much to keep textures intact.
- Pour in the Chicken Broth:
- Pour the 4 cups of chicken broth slowly over the mixture ensuring even coverage. If you want a thicker stew add the 1/4 cup flour now and stir gently to combine. The flour will help thicken the broth as it cooks creating a richer texture.
- Set and Forget:
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. The long cooking time allows the flavors to meld and the chicken to become exceptionally tender. Resist the urge to lift the lid too often to keep the heat steady.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Ladle the hot chicken stew into bowls and garnish each serving with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley. The fresh herb brightens the dish and adds appealing color.
One winter I remember gathering around the table with family after a snowy day, warmed by bowls of this stew and plenty of laughter that made the meal feel extra special.
Storage Tips
Cool the stew completely before transferring to airtight containers. It keeps well in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave to preserve the texture of the chicken and potatoes.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap chicken thighs with drumsticks or turkey if you like darker meat with more fat. Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a sweeter twist. Fresh thyme can replace dried thyme but add it closer to the end of cooking to retain its flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This stew shines served with crusty bread to soak up the broth or over a bed of rice for extra comfort. A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette adds a bright contrast to the hearty stew.
Use fresh herbs like parsley and thyme in summer to keep the flavors bright and fresh.
FAQs about Recipes
- → What cut of chicken works best?
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal for their tenderness and flavor, but breasts can also be used.
- → Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, vegetables like peas, green beans, or mushrooms can be added to enhance the stew.
- → How can I thicken the stew?
Mixing in a small amount of flour after searing the chicken or during cooking will help thicken the broth.
- → Is searing the chicken necessary?
Searing boosts flavor by creating a golden crust, but you can skip it if short on time.
- → How long should I cook it in the slow cooker?
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and vegetables are soft.
- → What herbs complement this dish best?
Thyme and bay leaves provide a subtle aromatic depth that enhances the stew’s savory profile.