Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

6

A hearty, comforting chicken stew made with tender chicken, vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth. Perfect for busy days since the slow cooker does most of the work.

Prep Time

• Prep: 15 minutes
• Cook: 6–8 hours (Low) or 3–4 hours (High)
• Total: 6–8 hours 15 minutes

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 2 lbs (900 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1½-inch pieces
• 1 tbsp olive oil (optional)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 3 celery stalks, sliced
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp cold water

Instructions

1. Prepare the slow cooker.
   • Add the chicken, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, potatoes, diced tomatoes, herbs, paprika, salt, pepper, and bay leaf to the slow cooker.
2. Add the broth.
   • Pour in the chicken broth and stir gently to combine.
3. Cook.
   • Cook on Low for 6–8 hours or High for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
4. Add the peas.
   • Stir in the frozen peas during the last 20–30 minutes of cooking.
5. Thicken the stew.
   • Mix the cornstarch with the cold water until smooth.
   • Stir it into the stew, cover, and cook for another 15–20 minutes, or until thickened.
6. Finish and serve.
   • Remove the bay leaf.
   • Taste and adjust seasoning.
   • Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired.

Optional Add-Ins

• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1 cup corn kernels
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ cup heavy cream for a creamy stew
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• A splash of lemon juice before serving for brightness

Storage

• Refrigerator: Up to 4 days in an airtight container.
• Freezer: Up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Serving Suggestions

• Crusty bread or dinner rolls
• Buttered biscuits
• Steamed rice
• Mashed potatoes
• A simple green salad

This stew is rich, filling, and packed with tender chicken and vegetables, making it an ideal family-friendly meal for cooler days or easy weeknight dinners.