Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe

Name: Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 20 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 4 cups chicken broth; 3 carrots, chopped; 3 potatoes, diced; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 1 onion, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp dried rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 cup frozen peas

Highlighted under: Hearty Family Meals

This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is a comforting and hearty dish, perfect for chilly evenings. With tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a savory broth, it's an easy meal that simmers to perfection.

Created by

Arabella Scott

Last updated on 2025-12-19T15:40:54.987Z

This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is not just a recipe; it’s a family tradition. Passed down through generations, it combines wholesome ingredients and the convenience of a slow cooker. The tender chicken and fresh vegetables create a dish that warms the soul.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, savory flavor that fills your home with aroma
Effortless preparation with minimal clean-up
Perfect for meal prep or a cozy family dinner

The Benefits of Slow Cooking

Slow cooking is an excellent method for preparing meals, especially for busy families. By allowing ingredients to simmer slowly over several hours, you enable flavors to blend beautifully, creating a rich and satisfying dish. This technique also means you can prepare your meal in advance and let the slow cooker do the work while you go about your day.

Another benefit of slow cooking is that it often results in tender meat. When cooking chicken in a slow cooker, the low heat breaks down the connective tissues, making the chicken thighs juicy and flavorful. This method is especially beneficial for tougher cuts of meat, as the long cooking time allows them to become tender and succulent.

Perfect Pairings

This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or buttery biscuits. The bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious broth, enhancing your dining experience. Consider serving a side salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the hearty stew and add a refreshing touch to your meal.

For a complete dinner, you might also enjoy a glass of white wine, such as a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. Their crisp flavors complement the savory notes of the stew, making for a delightful pairing that elevates your home-cooked meal.

Storage and Leftovers

This stew makes fantastic leftovers, and storing it properly can keep it fresh for days. Once cooled, transfer any remaining stew to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will last for about 3-4 days in the fridge, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the stew. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. This way, you can savor the comforting flavors of your chicken stew even weeks later!

Ingredients

Gather all the fresh ingredients to make this delicious stew.

Ingredients

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
4 cups chicken broth
3 carrots, chopped
3 potatoes, diced
2 celery stalks, chopped
1 onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
1 cup frozen peas

Make sure to add these ingredients to your shopping list!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your stew.

Prepare the Chicken

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, and sear them for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Combine Ingredients

In the slow cooker, add the seared chicken, chopped carrots, potatoes, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, and rosemary. Pour in the chicken broth.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours until the chicken is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.

Add Peas

In the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the frozen peas for added color and sweetness.

Serve

Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot and enjoy your hearty stew!

Enjoy your meal with some crusty bread or over rice!

Pro Tips

For a thicker stew, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water and stir it into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Tips for Customization

One of the great things about this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is how versatile it is. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables based on what you have on hand. Green beans, corn, or bell peppers can make excellent additions, while also adding nutritional value and color to the dish.

If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños for a spicy kick. Alternatively, you could incorporate some fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro just before serving to brighten the flavors.

Nutritional Benefits

This chicken stew is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Chicken thighs provide a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. The variety of vegetables adds vitamins, minerals, and fiber, contributing to a well-rounded meal that supports overall health.

Additionally, using a low-sodium chicken broth can help you control your sodium intake while still enjoying a flavorful dish. This makes the stew a healthier option compared to many store-bought meals, ensuring you can indulge without the guilt.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but they may dry out faster than thighs.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, green beans, or any vegetables you enjoy.

→ Can I freeze the stew?

Yes, this stew freezes well. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.