If you’re looking for a comforting, nutritious meal that practically cooks itself, this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is the answer. Loaded with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and flavorful herbs, it’s the kind of dinner that warms your soul. Best of all, it’s one of the easiest crockpot recipes you’ll ever make—perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this rich and satisfying chicken stew, gather the following ingredients:
Protein & Broth:
-
1.5 pounds (about 700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
-
4 cups (1 liter) low-sodium chicken broth
Vegetables:
-
3 large carrots, peeled and sliced into rounds
-
3 medium potatoes, diced (Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well)
-
2 celery stalks, chopped
-
1 medium onion, finely chopped
-
3 cloves garlic, minced
-
1 cup frozen peas (added at the end)
Seasonings:
-
1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
-
½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
-
1 tsp dried thyme
-
½ tsp dried rosemary
-
2 bay leaves
-
1 tbsp tomato paste (optional for depth of flavor)
Thickening (optional):
-
2 tbsp all-purpose flour or cornstarch
-
2 tbsp water (to mix with flour/cornstarch for a slurry)
Kitchen Tools You May Need
-
A 6-quart slow cooker (standard size for crockpot recipes)
-
Chopping board and sharp knife
-
Measuring cups and spoons
-
Mixing bowl (optional, for slurry)
-
Ladle for serving
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Follow these simple steps for a stress-free and delicious dinner:
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Wash and chop all your vegetables. Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This prep step makes the rest of the process seamless.
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients
In the bottom of your slow cooker, add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, potatoes, and celery. Then layer the chicken pieces on top.
Step 3: Season and Add Liquids
Sprinkle in the salt, pepper, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Add tomato paste if using. Pour the chicken broth over everything, ensuring the contents are just covered.
Step 4: Slow Cook
Cover the crockpot and cook on:
-
Low for 7–8 hours, or
-
High for 4–5 hours
until the chicken is tender and the vegetables are soft.
Step 5: Thicken the Stew (Optional)
If you prefer a thicker stew, 30 minutes before serving:
-
In a small bowl, mix flour or cornstarch with water to form a slurry.
-
Stir the slurry into the stew, cover again, and let it simmer on High for 30 minutes until it thickens.
Step 6: Add the Peas
About 10 minutes before serving, stir in the frozen peas and let them warm through.
Step 7: Taste and Adjust
Taste the stew and adjust seasoning if necessary. Remove bay leaves before serving.
Helpful Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
-
Use chicken thighs for a more flavorful and juicy stew, but chicken breasts will work if you prefer leaner meat.
-
Don’t overcook the peas—add them at the end to retain their bright color and texture.
-
Potato variety matters: waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape better than starchy ones like Russets.
-
Make it creamier: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of sour cream at the end for a richer texture.
-
Freeze leftovers: This stew freezes beautifully. Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving, based on 6 servings)
-
Calories: 320
-
Protein: 28g
-
Fat: 9g
-
Carbohydrates: 28g
-
Fiber: 5g
-
Sugar: 5g
-
Sodium: 450mg
(Note: Nutritional values can vary based on specific ingredients and portions used.)
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is the kind of meal that makes you fall in love with crockpot recipes all over again. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a dependable classic that the whole family will enjoy. Whether you’re planning a cozy night in or need a stress-free dinner solution, this hearty stew won’t disappoint.