everydaycookingtips.com

Crock Pot Chicken Stew

What’s so comforting about walking into a house filled with the aroma of steamed water? What’s the best Crock Pot Chicken stew recipe? Is it warm, hearty, and packed with flavor – kinda like a hug in ’em? If you love a good beef stew but want something lighter and easier, this is *definitely* your recipe. What is the recipe for you? I swear, this stew has saved me on countless busy weeknights when I just don’t have the energy for a day. What is a complicated

Crock Pot Chicken Stew final dish beautifully presented and ready to serve

What is a crock pot chicken stew?

What is a Crock Pot Chicken stew? Slow cooker: rich, savory broth, all cooked low and slow in your trusty slow cooker. What’s a healthier version of beef stew? What is the best way to cook chicken in a slow cooker? The name comes from the fact that all ingredients cook inside a crock pot. Is that all there is to it? What is a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen?

Why do I love this recipe?

Where do I start? What I love about this Crock Pot Chicken Stew is its incredible flavor. What is the perfect combination of herbs, spices, and vegetables? What is the easiest thing to do? Is it safe to put everything in a slow cooker and let it cook? The ingredients are super budget-friendly, too – mostly pantry staples and affordable vegetables. My family goes crazy for this stew, even my pickiest eaters. Is it healthy to eat but still feels light and healthy? Can you customize this recipe with your favorite veggies or spices? What’s better than store bought chicken soup? I swear it has healing powers! I love using leftover stew the next day over mashed potatoes or biscuits.

How do I make crock pot chicken stew?

Quick Overview

How do I make a Crock Pot Chicken Stew? How do I start prepping vegetables and chicken? If you’re using a slow cooker, add broth and seasonings, and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. Then, put everything in the Slow Cooker. When the chicken is tender and the vegetables are perfectly cooked, cook for about 5 minutes. What is a dump-and-go recipe?

Ingredients

For the chicken:
5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (I prefer thigh because they stay moist in the Slow Cooker) (Petita: I like to eat chicken breasts but I don’t like meat). How do chicken breasts work?
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing, optional but recommended)
• Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy!)
• 1 teaspoon paprika (adds a nice smoky flavor)

For the Vegetables:
• 1 large onion, chopped (yellow or white), whatever you have on hand.
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped (I like to use a rainbow carrot for extra color)
• 2 celery stalks, chopped (adds a lovely savory note)
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped (adds sweetness and color)
• 1 cup frozen peas (added at the end for a pop of green)
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed (Yukon gold or Russet work great)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (fresh is best!)

For the Broth & Seasoning:
• 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium is my go-to)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (an essential herb for stewing)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary (adds a woody aroma)
• 1 bay leaf (don’t forget to remove it before serving):
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (for umami depth) (I used 1 teaspoon)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water to thicken, optional)

Crock Pot Chicken Stew ingredients organized and measured on kitchen counter

What are the steps to

Step 1: Sear the Chicken (Optional)

Is this step optional? In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add salt and pepper to taste. Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and paprika. How do you cook chicken breasts? This helps to lock in the moisture and add a deeper flavor to the stew. Don’t worry about cooking the chicken all the way through – it will finish cooking in the slow cooker.

Step 2: Add Ingredients to the Crock Pot

Place the chopped onion, carrots, celery, bell pepper, potatoes, and minced garlic in the bottom of a large bowl. What is a slow cooker? Add the seared chicken thighs to the vegetables.

Step 3: Add Broth and Seasonings

What is the best way to serve chicken broth over vegetables? Add the dried thyme, dried rosemary, bay leaf, Worcestershire sauce, and salt. Stir to combine. Give everything a good stir to combine.

Step 4: Cook the Stew

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is tender. Is the vegetable cooked through? How long does it take for a slow cooker to cook?

Step 5: Thicken the Stew (Optional)

If you prefer a thicker stew, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water in an airtight container. Set aside. How do you stir cornstarch slurry into a slow cooker? How do I thicken broth?

Step 6: Add Peas and Serve

Stir in the frozen peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking. How do you cook a bay leaf without making it mushy?

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

What is the best way to serve a crock pot chicken stew hot? This stew is delicious on its own, but it’s also great served with crusty bread or biscuits.

What should I serve it with?

What is a good crock pot chicken stew?

For a Classic Meal:Serve with crusty bread or warm biscuits for soaking up the delicious broth. A simple side salad with a vinaigrette dressing complements the richness of the stew.

What is a hearty meal?Serve over mashed potatoes or rice for an extra comforting and filling meal. What are some good ways to add sour cream to a Greek yogurt?

For a lighter meal: Serve with a side of steamed green beans or roasted asparagus for a healthier option. A sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill, adds a burst of flavor.

My Family’s Tradition: My family always has a slice of buttered sourdough bread on the side. Something about the tang of the sourdough against the rich stew is just *chef’s kiss*. We also sometimes crumble a few saltine crackers on top for a little extra texture!

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Crock Pot Chicken Stew

Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks to make this Crock Pot Chicken Stew even better. Here are my top tips:

Chicken Prep: Searing the chicken is optional, but it really does add a lot of flavor. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step, but I highly recommend it if you have a few extra minutes. Also, don’t be afraid to use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. They’ll add even more flavor to the stew, but you’ll need to remove the bones and skin before serving.

Vegetable Choices: Feel free to customize the vegetables to your liking. Other great additions include mushrooms, corn, green beans, or sweet potatoes. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Broth Quality: Using a high-quality chicken broth makes a big difference in the flavor of the stew. I prefer to use low-sodium broth so I can control the amount of salt in the dish. You can also use homemade chicken broth for an even richer flavor.

Herb Additions: Fresh herbs are a great way to brighten up the flavor of the stew. Add a handful of chopped parsley or dill during the last few minutes of cooking. You can also add a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme to the slow cooker for extra flavor.

Thickening Options: If you prefer a thicker stew, you can use a cornstarch slurry or a roux (equal parts flour and butter) to thicken the broth. Just be sure to whisk it in well to avoid lumps. Another option is to mash some of the potatoes in the slow cooker for a naturally thickened stew.

Flavor Boosters: A splash of lemon juice or a dash of hot sauce can add a nice zing to the stew. You can also add a tablespoon of tomato paste for a deeper, richer flavor.

My Secret Ingredient: This might sound weird, but a tiny pinch of ground cloves adds a wonderful warmth to the stew. Trust me on this one!

Storing and Reheating Tips

This Crock Pot Chicken Stew is perfect for meal prepping because it stores and reheats beautifully.

Room Temperature: Don’t leave the stew at room temperature for more than two hours. Bacteria can grow rapidly at room temperature, so it’s important to refrigerate or freeze the stew promptly.

Refrigerator Storage: Store the stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let the stew cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, freeze the stew in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2-3 months. Thaw the stew in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating Tips: Reheat the stew on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be sure to stir it every minute to ensure even heating. If the stew seems too thick after reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin it out.

Glaze Timing Advice: This doesn’t need glazing, but for stews that need toppings, add fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream just before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just make sure to use gluten-free chicken broth and Worcestershire sauce. You can also use a cornstarch slurry or a gluten-free flour blend to thicken the stew. I’ve tested it with both and haven’t noticed much of a difference!
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
It’s totally up to you! I usually peel them because my family prefers it that way, but you can leave the skins on for added nutrients and texture. Just be sure to scrub the potatoes well before chopping them.
Can I use different vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to use your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand. Mushrooms, green beans, corn, and sweet potatoes are all great additions. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How can I make this vegetarian?
You can easily make this stew vegetarian by swapping the chicken for chickpeas or white beans. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and add some extra vegetables for a heartier stew.
What can I do if my stew is too watery?
If your stew is too watery, you can thicken it by adding a cornstarch slurry or a roux. You can also remove some of the broth and simmer it on the stovetop until it reduces. Another option is to mash some of the potatoes in the slow cooker to thicken the stew naturally. I do that when my kids aren’t looking.

Final Thoughts

Crock Pot Chicken Stew slice on plate showing perfect texture and swirl pattern

This Crock Pot Chicken Stew is more than just a recipe; it’s a warm, comforting hug in a bowl that brings my family together time and time again. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. The best part is knowing it uses affordable ingredients and makes enough for leftovers (which, let’s be honest, taste even better the next day!). If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also like my Creamy Tomato Soup or my Hearty Lentil Soup. Both are family favorites that are just as easy and delicious. Happy cooking, friends! I can’t wait to hear how your Crock Pot Chicken Stew turns out – be sure to leave a comment below and let me know what you think. Also, don’t forget to rate the recipe if you loved it!

No ratings yet
Crock Pot Chicken Stew

How to Make the Best Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Stew: 7 Tips

This creamy chicken stew is the perfect comfort food for a chilly day! Simple to make in your crock pot, it's packed with flavor and tender chicken.
Prep : 10 Total : 25 minutes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 2 lbs Boneless, skinless chicken thighs Cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 4 cups Chicken broth Low sodium
  • 1 cup Heavy cream
  • 1 lb Yukon Gold potatoes Peeled and cubed
  • 1 cup Baby carrots
  • 1 medium Onion Diced
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced
  • 2 tablespoons All-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon Dried thyme
  • 0.5 teaspoon Salt Or to taste
  • 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper Or to taste

Instructions
 

Preparation Steps

  • In a large bowl, toss the chicken pieces with flour, salt, and pepper.
  • Place the potatoes, carrots, and onion in the bottom of the crock pot.
  • Add the chicken pieces on top of the vegetables. Sprinkle minced garlic and thyme.
  • Pour the chicken broth over the chicken and vegetables.
  • Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
  • Stir in the heavy cream. Let it cook for an additional 30 minutes on low to warm through.
  • Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

Feel free to add other vegetables such as celery, peas, or green beans. For a thicker stew, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Recipes Should You See

As Seen On:

Everydarycookingtips
Everydarycookingtips
Everydarycookingtips
Everydarycookingtips
Everydarycookingtips
Easy Healthy Recipes
0 0 votes
Article Rating
Subscribe
Notify of
guest
0 Comments
Oldest
Newest Most Voted
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments

as seen on:

Everydarycookingtips
Everydarycookingtips
Everydarycookingtips
Everydarycookingtips
Everydarycookingtips
Easy Healthy Recipes

as seen on:

Everydarycookingtips
Everydarycookingtips
Everydarycookingtips
Everydarycookingtips
Everydarycookingtips
Easy Healthy Recipes

Download My FREE Protein Meal Plan!

0
Would love your thoughts, please comment.x
()
x