Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Slow cooker chicken stew is a comforting and hearty dish that combines tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and savory broth. Ideal for busy days, this stew is simple to prepare and lets the slow cooker do all the work. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners or meal prep for the week ahead.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

1. Place the chicken thighs, potatoes, carrots, onion, and garlic in the slow cooker.
2. Add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or until the chicken and vegetables are tender.
4. If you prefer a thicker stew, mix the flour with a little water to make a slurry and stir it into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
5. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields 6 servings. The total time for preparation and cooking is approximately 7 hours and 15 minutes, with 15 minutes for prep and 7-8 hours for cooking.

Variations

• Add More Vegetables: Incorporate additional veggies like green beans, corn, or celery for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs such as oregano, basil, or parsley for a unique twist.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a bit of heat.
• Creamy Stew: Stir in some heavy cream or half-and-half during the last 30 minutes for a richer flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover chicken stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. You may want to add a little extra broth if it thickens too much upon cooling.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
   Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may dry out slightly if cooked for too long.
2. Can I prepare this dish the night before?
   Yes, you can assemble the ingredients in the slow cooker and refrigerate it overnight, then cook in the morning.
3. What can I serve with this stew?
   Serve with crusty bread, biscuits, or a side salad for a complete meal.
4. Can I freeze the chicken stew?
   Yes, it freezes well. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.
5. What if I don’t have chicken broth?
   You can use vegetable broth or water, but the flavor may vary slightly.
6. Is this stew gluten-free?
   To make it gluten-free, omit the flour or substitute with a gluten-free thickening agent.
7. How do I know when the stew is done?
   The chicken should be tender and easily shredded, and the vegetables should be soft.
8. Can I add beans for extra protein?
   Yes, adding canned beans like white beans or chickpeas can boost the protein content.
9. How spicy is this dish?
   It is mild; you can adjust the spice level by adding more herbs or peppers as desired.
10. Can I cook this on high instead of low?
    Yes, you can cook it on high for about 4-5 hours, but keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking.

Conclusion

Slow cooker chicken stew is a deliciously comforting meal that combines convenience with rich flavors. With its tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and savory broth, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe for any day of the week. Enjoy a warm bowl of this delightful stew, perfect for sharing with family and friends!

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