Warm, hearty, and packed with tender chicken and vegetables, this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is comfort food at its best. Perfect for chilly evenings, this one-pot recipe is flavorful and simple to prepare.
Why This Recipe Works
Tender Chicken: Slow cooking ensures juicy, melt-in-your-mouth chicken.
Layered Flavors: A mix of thyme, rosemary, garlic, and a bay leaf adds deep, comforting flavors.
Veggie-Packed: Carrots, potatoes, and peas make it a wholesome, balanced meal.
Hands-Off Cooking: Minimal effort with maximum reward, thanks to the slow cooker!
Ingredients
Servings: 6
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 1/2 pounds chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to season
6 cloves garlic, minced
1 onion, diced
3 carrots, peeled and sliced
2 large potatoes, cut into 1/2-inch cubes (about 1 pound)
3 cups chicken broth
1 bay leaf
1/2 cup milk
1 cup green peas, frozen
Black pepper, to season
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Toss the chicken pieces in 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour until lightly coated.
Brown the chicken in the skillet for 2-3 minutes per side until golden (no need to cook through). Set aside.
Step 2: Assemble in the Slow Cooker
Add the browned chicken to the slow cooker.
Layer the diced onion, sliced carrots, cubed potatoes, and minced garlic on top.
Sprinkle with thyme, rosemary, salt, and a pinch of black pepper.
Pour in 3 cups chicken broth, ensuring everything is mostly submerged. Add the bay leaf for extra flavor.
Step 3: Cook the Stew
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the vegetables are tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
Step 4: Add the Final Touches
Stir in 1/2 cup milk and the frozen peas during the last 20 minutes of cooking.
Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and black pepper, if needed.
Step 5: Serve
Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Ladle the stew into bowls and enjoy warm.
Tips for Recipe Success
Thickening the Stew: For a thicker stew, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Veggie Substitutions: Use sweet potatoes, parsnips, or celery for variety.
Chicken Alternatives: Chicken breasts or boneless thighs can be used, but thighs stay juicier.
Freezer-Friendly: Leftovers freeze well for up to 3 months. Reheat in a pot over medium heat.
Serving Suggestions
Crusty Bread: Pair with freshly baked bread to soak up the stew’s savory broth.
Salad: Serve with a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast.
Toppings: Add chopped fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor.
Why You’ll Love It
This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is the definition of cozy comfort food. Packed with tender chicken, hearty veggies, and a flavorful broth, it’s an easy, satisfying meal that your whole family will adore. Just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work!