Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
A slow cooker chicken stew is the ultimate comfort food—rich, hearty, and full of tender chicken, vegetables, and savory broth. Using a slow cooker makes this dish effortless while allowing the flavors to develop over hours. It’s perfect for busy days, family dinners, or meal prep for the week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Tender chicken falling off the bone
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Flavorful broth with vegetables
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Hands-off cooking
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Flexible ingredients and seasonings
This stew is cozy, wholesome, and perfect with bread or over rice.
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
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2 lbs (900 g) chicken thighs or breasts, bone-in or boneless, cut into pieces
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4 medium carrots, sliced
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3 celery stalks, sliced
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1 medium onion, diced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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2 medium potatoes, diced
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1 cup frozen peas (added near the end)
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4 cups chicken broth
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
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1 teaspoon dried rosemary
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2 bay leaves
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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2 tablespoons olive oil or butter (optional, for browning chicken)
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2 tablespoons cornstarch or flour mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
Instructions
Step 1: (Optional) Brown the Chicken
For extra flavor, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown chicken pieces for 2–3 minutes per side, then transfer to the slow cooker.
Step 2: Add Vegetables and Seasonings
Place carrots, celery, onion, garlic, and potatoes in the slow cooker with the chicken. Add thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Add Broth
Pour chicken broth over the ingredients until they are just covered.
Step 4: Cook
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Cover and cook on Low for 6–7 hours or High for 3–4 hours.
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Chicken should be tender, and vegetables cooked through.
Step 5: Add Peas and Thicken (Optional)
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About 20–30 minutes before serving, stir in frozen peas.
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If you prefer a thicker stew, mix cornstarch or flour with water and stir in; cook for remaining time until thickened.
Step 6: Serve
Remove bay leaves before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot with:
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Crusty bread
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Rice or mashed potatoes
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Fresh herbs for garnish
Tips for Best Results
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Use bone-in thighs for more flavor and tenderness
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Cut vegetables evenly so they cook at the same rate
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Don’t lift the lid too often—slow cookers lose heat quickly
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Customize: Add bell peppers, parsnips, or turnips for variety
Storage
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Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days
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Freeze in portions for up to 3 months
Comfort in a Bowl
Slow cooker chicken stew is the perfect hearty meal that’s almost entirely hands-off. With tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and a savory broth, it’s ideal for cozy evenings and makes enough for leftovers or meal prep. 🍲