When you need a cozy, hands-off dinner that’s nourishing and full of flavor, this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is the answer. With tender chunks of chicken, hearty vegetables, and a savory broth that simmers all day, this one-pot meal delivers comfort and satisfaction in every bite.
Just toss everything into your crockpot in the morning and come home to a hot, delicious stew that tastes like you spent all day cooking—without lifting a finger after breakfast.
Ingredients
- 1½ lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into chunks
- 4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ teaspoons salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen peas (add at the end)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, for garnish
Preparation
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
- Chop all vegetables and chicken. Set aside. Lightly spray your slow cooker insert with cooking spray for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Add Everything to Slow Cooker
- Place chicken, carrots, potatoes, celery, onion, and garlic into the slow cooker. Sprinkle in salt, pepper, thyme, rosemary, and paprika.
Step 3: Mix Flour and Tomato Paste
- In a small bowl, whisk together the tomato paste and flour with ½ cup of the chicken broth until smooth. Pour into the slow cooker.
Step 4: Pour in Remaining Broth
- Add the remaining chicken broth and gently stir to combine all ingredients.
Step 5: Cook
- Cover and cook on LOW for 7–8 hours or on HIGH for 3½–4 hours, until chicken and vegetables are tender and stew has thickened slightly.
Step 6: Finish & Serve
- During the last 15 minutes of cooking, stir in the frozen peas. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Variation
- Creamy Version: Stir in ½ cup heavy cream or a few tablespoons of cream cheese at the end
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a spicy twist
- Herb Swap: Try sage, oregano, or Italian seasoning in place of rosemary and thyme
- Add Grains: Mix in cooked barley, rice, or small pasta for a heartier stew
- Vegetarian Version: Omit chicken and replace with white beans and veggie broth
Cooking Note
Cut veggies into uniform sizes for even cooking. If your stew is too thin, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it in during the last 30 minutes. For a thicker texture, mash a few potatoes right in the pot.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with warm crusty bread or homemade biscuits
- Pair with a light salad or roasted green beans
- Add a sprinkle of Parmesan or shredded cheddar on top
- Enjoy in a bread bowl for extra comfort
- Serve over mashed potatoes or egg noodles for a complete meal
Tips
- Chicken thighs stay more tender than breasts after long cooking
- For deeper flavor, brown the chicken and sauté veggies before slow cooking (optional)
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days
- Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months
- Reheat on the stovetop or in microwave with a splash of broth
Time Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 7–8 hours (LOW) or 3½–4 hours (HIGH)
Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes – 8 hours 15 minutes
Nutritional Info (Per Serving – Approx. 6 servings)
- Calories: ~350
- Protein: ~30g
- Carbohydrates: ~22g
- Fat: ~15g
- Fiber: ~4g
- Sodium: ~680mg
Note: Nutrition will vary based on ingredients and exact measurements.
FAQs
Can I make this stew on the stovetop?
- Yes! Simmer everything in a Dutch oven over low heat for 1½ to 2 hours, or until chicken and veggies are tender.
Can I use frozen chicken?
- No—frozen chicken should be thawed first for food safety in a slow cooker.
How can I thicken the stew?
- Use a cornstarch slurry or mash a few of the potatoes once cooked. You can also let it simmer uncovered on HIGH for the last 30 minutes.
Can I freeze chicken stew?
- Yes! Cool completely, then freeze in individual portions. Thaw and reheat as needed.
What veggies can I substitute?
- Try parsnips, green beans, sweet potatoes, or even mushrooms for a twist.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is the kind of meal that tastes like home. It’s comforting, hearty, and full of savory goodness with tender chicken, rustic vegetables, and herbs in every bite.
Perfect for busy weeknights, Sunday family dinners, or cold-weather cravings, this one-pot wonder is always a good idea. Just set it, forget it, and enjoy a bowl full of love.