Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

A creamy chicken stew without the cream, this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew recipe is the perfect solution for chilly evenings or a family gathering. It’s hearty, satisfying, and packed with flavor, while being easy to prepare. Simply let your slow cooker do the work! This dish is versatile enough to be enjoyed any day of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it simmer.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of herbs and vegetables creates a deliciously robust taste.
• Comforting Texture: Creamy without using heavy cream, making it lighter yet satisfying.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time; leftovers taste even better the next day!
• Family-Friendly: A dish that pleases both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delightful slow cooker chicken stew, you’ll need a few essential tools in your kitchen. These will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-free cooking, letting flavors meld beautifully over time.
• Large skillet: Perfect for searing chicken before adding it to the slow cooker, enhancing flavor.
• Chef’s knife: Ensures precision when chopping ingredients for uniform cooking.

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Ingredients

A creamy chicken stew without the cream, this hearty slow cooker chicken stew recipe is perfect for a cold day.

Ingredients:
– 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 ½-inch cubes (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

1. Place chicken on a cutting board, dice into 1-inch pieces, and season generously with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

1. In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chicken pieces and cook for about 4-5 minutes until browned on all sides.
3. Note that you don’t need to cook the chicken all the way through; simply sear it to lock in juices before transferring it to the slow cooker.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

1. Once seared, place the chicken in the slow cooker.
2. Sprinkle flour, thyme, rosemary, and salt over the chicken; stir until well coated.
3. Add garlic, onion, carrots, and potatoes; mix gently.
4. Pour in chicken broth and add bay leaf.

Step 4: Cook

1. Cover and cook on low for about 7-8 hours or on high for about 3-4 hours.

Step 5: Final Touches

1. After cooking, add frozen peas and milk; stir well.
2. Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes on high until peas are warmed through.
3. Adjust thickness by adding more flour if too thin or a splash of broth if too thick.

Step 6: Serve

1. Taste the stew before serving; adjust salt and pepper as desired.
2. Enjoy immediately or store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days or freeze for up to three months.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Serving slow cooker chicken stew is a delightful experience that warms both the heart and stomach. Its rich flavors make it perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: Serve slices of warm, crusty baguette to soak up the delicious broth.
• Garlic Bread: A side of garlic bread adds a flavorful twist and enhances the overall meal.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• Steamed White Rice: A bed of fluffy white rice is ideal for absorbing the stew’s flavors.
• Quinoa: For a healthier option, serve over quinoa for added protein and texture.

Topped with Herbs

• Fresh Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to each bowl.
• Thyme Sprigs: Garnish with thyme sprigs for an aromatic touch that complements the stew.

Accompanied by Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the stew.
• Caesar Salad: Classic Caesar salad adds crunch and flavor that pairs well with the stew.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

To ensure your slow cooker chicken stew turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Bone-in Chicken: For extra flavor, opt for bone-in chicken thighs instead of boneless.
• Brown the Chicken First: Searing the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker enhances its flavor and texture.
• Adjust Seasoning Later: Wait until after cooking to adjust salt and pepper; this allows flavors to meld better.
• Add Vegetables in Stages: Add delicate vegetables like peas towards the end of cooking for optimal texture.
• Use High-Quality Broth: A good-quality chicken broth significantly improves the overall taste of your stew.
• Thicken Wisely: If needed, use a slurry made from flour and water to thicken your stew without lumps.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Pairing side dishes with your slow cooker chicken stew can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic complement the hearty stew beautifully.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring color and additional nutrients to your plate.
3. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread provides a delightful contrast to the savory stew flavors.
4. Simple Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds crispness and freshness alongside your warm dish.
5. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers a healthy green element that pairs well with comfort food.
6. Buttered Noodles: Soft noodles tossed in butter make for a comforting addition that pleases all ages.
7. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf cooked with herbs can absorb the stew’s juices wonderfully.
8. Savory Flatbreads: Warm flatbreads can be used to scoop up delicious bites directly from your bowl.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Slow Cooker Chicken Stew even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the searing step: Searing the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker adds flavor. Don’t skip this step; it enhances the overall taste of your stew.
• Not seasoning properly: Under-seasoning can lead to bland food. Be sure to taste and adjust seasonings like salt and pepper throughout the cooking process.
• Using too much liquid: Adding excess broth can make your stew watery. Stick to the recommended measurements for a perfect consistency.
• Overcooking vegetables: Certain vegetables, like potatoes and carrots, can become mushy if cooked too long. Add them at the right time for a better texture.
• Ignoring leftovers storage: Not storing leftovers correctly can affect freshness. Use airtight containers and refrigerate or freeze promptly.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Allow the stew to cool before sealing the container.

Freezing Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

• Freeze in portions for easy reheating later.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring they are sealed tightly. Stew can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish, covered, until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What ingredients are needed for Slow Cooker Chicken Stew?

You will need chicken thighs, olive oil, flour, garlic, onion, carrots, potatoes, chicken broth, herbs, milk, and peas.

How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Chicken Stew?

The cooking time is about 7-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high.

Can I customize my Slow Cooker Chicken Stew?

Yes! You can add different vegetables like bell peppers or green beans according to your preference.

Is Slow Cooker Chicken Stew healthy?

Absolutely! This stew is rich in protein and packed with nutrients from vegetables making it a wholesome meal option.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with beef or turkey if you prefer different flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is not only hearty but also incredibly versatile. Its creamy texture without actual cream makes it comforting on cold days. Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or spices for a personal touch. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!