Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Name: Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless; 4 cups chicken broth; 3 carrots, sliced; 3 potatoes, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 cup green beans, trimmed

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Warm up your dinner table with this hearty Slow Cooker Chicken Stew recipe. Packed with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and savory herbs, this gluten-free dish simmers to perfection while you go about your day. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, this stew is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a staple for anyone looking to enjoy comfort food without the hassle.

Created by

Mario

Last updated on 2025-11-28T07:32:33.491Z

This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is not just a recipe, it's a heartwarming experience. Each bowl is filled with love and nourishment, perfect for any occasion.

Hearty and Nutritious

This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is not just a meal; it's a comforting hug in a bowl. Packed with boneless, skinless chicken thighs, this dish delivers on protein and flavor. The combination of tender chicken and an array of colorful vegetables makes it both visually appealing and satisfying. Carrots, potatoes, and green beans contribute essential vitamins and minerals, ensuring that this meal is as wholesome as it is delicious.

Using a slow cooker allows the flavors to meld beautifully over hours of gentle cooking. The result is a rich, savory broth that enhances the taste of each ingredient. This uncomplicated cooking method means you can set it and forget it, freeing you to tackle your daily tasks while the stew simmers to perfection.

Easy Preparation for Busy Lives

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its simplicity. With minimal prep time required, you can easily toss the ingredients into your slow cooker in under 30 minutes. There’s no complicated chopping or multi-step processes; simply layer your ingredients and let the slow cooker do the work. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or when you have company over.

You can also modify the ingredients to suit your family’s preferences. Substitute chicken with turkey or add different vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. This versatility means you can make this stew again and again without feeling like you're serving the same meal.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is an excellent option for meal prepping. Not only does it yield generous portions, but it also freezes well. You can dish out leftovers into individual servings and store them in airtight containers, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Simply reheat, and you have a comforting meal ready in minutes.

Additionally, this stew's flavor improves after a day in the refrigerator. Allowing it to sit overnight enhances the savory notes and ensures every bite is packed with taste. Whether you're feeding a family or just yourself, this stew serves as a hearty and convenient meal solution that satisfies hunger and warms the soul.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
4 cups chicken broth
3 carrots, sliced
3 potatoes, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 cup green beans, trimmed

Make sure to wash all vegetables thoroughly before preparing your stew.

Directions

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the chopped vegetables and set aside.

Combine in the Slow Cooker

Place the chicken thighs at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the broth, then layer the mixed vegetables on top. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Final Touch

During the last hour of cooking, add the green beans, and stir gently.

Serve

Once cooked, serve hot and enjoy your hearty stew!

This stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Cooking Tips

For an added depth of flavor, consider browning the chicken thighs in a skillet before placing them in the slow cooker. This step introduces a caramelized note that enriches the overall taste of the stew. Additionally, sautéing the onions and garlic beforehand can enhance their sweetness, elevating the dish further.

If you prefer your stew thicker, you can create a slurry with cornstarch and water, adding it in the last 30 minutes of cooking. This will give the broth a heartier texture, making every spoonful even more delightful.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this comforting chicken stew with warm crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth. A side salad with a light vinaigrette can complement the stew nicely, adding a refreshing crunch. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before serving to give it a kick.

This stew is also great topped with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro right before serving. It not only adds a pop of color but also brings an aromatic freshness to your hearty dish.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. Adding rosemary or bay leaves can transform the flavor profile, while a splash of lemon juice at the end can brighten the dish. You can also replace some of the chicken broth with a white wine for a more sophisticated flavor.

Consider incorporating grains like barley or quinoa for additional texture and nutrition. Simply add these grains to the slow cooker according to package instructions, ensuring they cook thoroughly within your chosen timeframe. This will not only enhance the stew but also make it even more filling.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, frozen chicken can be used. Just make sure to adjust cooking time accordingly.

→ Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to customize your stew with your favorite vegetables.