On a chilly evening, the heavenly aroma of a simmering stew wafts through the house, instantly making it feel like home. This Hearty Slow Cooker Chicken Stew with Fresh Vegetables is not only a mouthwatering delight but also a straightforward way to bring warmth to your family’s dinner table. With tender chicken and a medley of colorful vegetables, it’s the perfect healthy comfort food that you can set and forget. Plus, the slow cooker makes it a breeze to prepare—freeing you up for other tasks or a little self-care. Whether you’re looking to create a family-friendly meal or simply want to enjoy something nourishing, this recipe checks all the boxes. So, what variations will inspire your stew tonight? Why Choose This Crock Pot Chicken Stew? Comforting, There’s nothing like a bowl of warm stew on a cold night to embrace the soul. Effortless preparation, Just toss everything in your slow cooker and let it do the work while you relax or catch up on chores. Healthy and hearty, Packed with fresh vegetables and lean chicken, this stew is as nutritious as it is tasty. Versatile options, Customize your stew with different herbs, vegetables, or thicker broth using cornstarch for a personalized touch. Family-friendly, Everyone will love it, making it a go-to choice for busy weeknights or gatherings. Treat your taste buds to this cozy Napa Chicken Salad afterwards for a complete meal! Crock Pot Chicken Stew Ingredients Here’s everything you need to create a delicious Crock Pot Chicken Stew bursting with flavors! For the Stew Base Medium Sweet Onions – Adds a touch of sweetness and a flavorful foundation; yellow onions work well as a substitute. Celery – Brings a crunchy texture and aromatic quality; diced bell peppers can replace it for a different flavor. Carrots – Provides vibrant color and natural sweetness; consider parsnips or sweet potatoes for a unique twist. Russet Potatoes – Contributes heartiness and creamy texture to the stew; red or gold potatoes with skins on add extra nutrients. Garlic – Deepens the stew’s flavor profile; you can use garlic powder in a pinch (1/4 teaspoon equals 1 clove). Bay Leaf – Imparts wonderful herbal notes; if unavailable, omit it, but be aware of the flavor difference. Fresh Thyme/Rosemary – These herbs elevate the dish with their aromatic essence; use dried alternatives (1 teaspoon dried for each tablespoon fresh). Paprika – Adds warmth and a lovely color contrast; substitute smoked paprika for an interesting flavor change. Poultry Seasoning – Enhances the overall flavor depth; thyme or sage are tasty alternatives if needed. For the Chicken Bone-in Chicken Breasts or Thighs – Ensures the stew is moist and flavorful; skinless, boneless chicken makes a leaner choice. For the Broth Low-Sodium Chicken Broth – Serves as the liquid base for the stew; opt for vegetable broth for a lighter flavor or dietary preferences. For Thickening (Optional) Cornstarch and Cold Water Slurry – Thickens the stew for a cozy texture; skip this if you prefer a thinner broth, or use flour as an alternative. Seasoning and Garnish Kosher Salt and Ground Black Pepper – Essential for enhancing flavors; adjust to your taste throughout cooking. Chopped Fresh Parsley – Adds a fresh touch for garnish; chives or cilantro work as delightful substitutes. Gather these ingredients, and you’re on your way to crafting a comforting bowl of Crock Pot Chicken Stew that your family will adore! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crock Pot Chicken Stew Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables Start by dicing medium sweet onions, celery, carrots, and russet potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Place them into your slow cooker, creating a colorful base. Add minced garlic, a bay leaf, fresh thyme, and rosemary, along with kosher salt and paprika. This mixture will create a fragrant foundation for your hearty Crock Pot Chicken Stew. Step 2: Season the Chicken Next, season your bone-in chicken breasts or thighs with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Carefully place the seasoned chicken on top of the prepared vegetable mixture in the slow cooker, ensuring the chicken is nestled among the veggies. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully as they cook together. Step 3: Add Chicken Broth Now, pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, ensuring all the ingredients are submerged. The liquid should be at the top of the vegetables and chicken, creating a lovely simmering environment. Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked. Step 4: Shred the Chicken With about 30 minutes left on the timer, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and return it to the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine the chicken with the aromatic stew, allowing it to continue cooking and infusing the flavors. Step 5: Thicken the Stew (Optional) If you prefer a thicker broth for your Crock Pot Chicken Stew, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with an equal amount of cold water in a small bowl until smooth. Stir this mixture into the stew, ensuring it’s fully integrated. Cover and cook on HIGH for an additional 30 minutes to thicken the broth while stirring occasionally. Step 6: Final Seasoning and Serve Once thickened to your liking, taste the stew and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. Remove and discard the bay leaf and any herb stems. Ladle the hearty chicken stew into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a touch of brightness before serving. How to Store and Freeze Crock Pot Chicken Stew Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Freezer: This stew freezes beautifully! Place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Reheating: For best results, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of chicken broth if necessary to adjust the consistency. Portioning: Consider portioning the stew into individual servings for quick and convenient meals throughout the week. Make Ahead Options These hearty Crock Pot Chicken Stew preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can chop the vegetables (onions, celery, carrots, and potatoes) and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours to save time. Additionally, you can season the chicken and place it directly on top of the chopped vegetables in the slow cooker, refrigerating it overnight. When ready to cook, pour the chicken broth over the mixture and set your slow cooker to cook as directed. This way, you’re guaranteed a flavorful stew that tastes just as delicious, making dinner a breeze with minimal effort! Expert Tips for Crock Pot Chicken Stew Temperature Check: Always verify your chicken is fully cooked using a meat thermometer; it should register at least 165°F for safety. Herb Harmony: If using fresh herbs, add them towards the end of cooking to maintain their vibrant flavors without overwhelming the dish. Flavor Control: When using low-sodium chicken broth, taste before adjusting salt levels to avoid over-salting your hearty Crock Pot Chicken Stew. Veggie Variations: Feel free to swap any of the vegetables for what you have on hand; just maintain the overall balance of flavors for the best results. Thickening Tips: For a heartier broth, mix cornstarch with cold water until smooth, then stir into the stew before serving to achieve the desired consistency. Variations & Substitutions for Crock Pot Chicken Stew Feel free to put your own spin on this delightful stew and explore flavors that excite your palate! Creamy Twist: Add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream before serving for a rich, velvety texture. Spice it Up: Introduce a pinch of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of Italian seasoning for a burst of heat and flavor. Frozen Veggie Medley: Toss in a variety of frozen vegetables like peas or corn during the last 30 minutes to boost both nutrition and color. Herb Alternatives: Swap fresh thyme and rosemary for dried herbs (1 teaspoon dried for each tablespoon of fresh) to allow for longer shelf life without sacrificing taste. Rotisserie Chicken: Save time by using shredded rotisserie chicken instead of cooking it from scratch. Stir it into the stew near the end for added convenience. Thickening Options: Skip the cornstarch for a thinner broth or try flour as an alternative thickener to achieve your desired stew consistency. Nutty Flavor: Incorporate a handful of toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for a delightful crunch and nutty essence. Citrus Zing: Add a teaspoon of lemon juice or zest right before serving to brighten up the flavors and add a refreshing touch. As you experiment with these variations, why not complete your meal with a refreshing Napa Chicken Salad for a balanced feast? What to Serve with Hearty Slow Cooker Chicken Stew? Create a delightful and comforting meal by pairing your rich chicken stew with complementary sides and drinks. Rustic Bread: A crusty loaf is perfect for soaking up the savory broth, enhancing the overall experience of the stew. Buttery Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits add a soft, comforting texture that balances the stew’s heartiness with a melt-in-your-mouth delight. Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette brings brightness and a refreshing crunch to each bite. Savory Cornbread: Sweet cornbread paired with the stew creates an appealing contrast that rounds out the flavors beautifully. Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized veggies like Brussels sprouts or broccoli are a lovely addition, providing depth and a touch of sweetness to the meal. Red Wine: A glass of rich red wine complements the flavors of the stew, enhancing the experience with every sip. Herb-Infused Rice: Serve over fluffy herbed rice for a unique twist that absorbs the stew’s flavors, making each bite luscious and satisfying. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: This classic side brings creaminess that pairs perfectly with the chicken stew, adding additional comfort to your meal. Fruity Dessert: A light fruit tart or sorbet cleanses the palate and gives a refreshing finish after enjoying the savory stew. Crock Pot Chicken Stew Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right vegetables for my stew? Absolutely! Opt for vegetables that are fresh and firm. Medium sweet onions should be free from dark spots and bruises, while carrots should be bright orange and crisp. For potatoes, choose those without sprouts or soft spots. Feel free to switch up the veggies based on what’s in season or what your family enjoys! How should I store leftover Crock Pot Chicken Stew? I recommend refrigerating any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. For longer storage, this stew freezes beautifully! Just transfer it to a freezer-safe container, and you can enjoy it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Can I freeze my Crock Pot Chicken Stew? Very! To freeze, let the stew cool completely, then pour it into freezer-safe containers. Leave a little space at the top since liquids expand when frozen. When ready to serve, just thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat gently on the stove, adding chicken broth if the stew needs a bit of extra moisture. What should I do if my stew is too thin? If your stew comes out thinner than desired, don’t worry! Simply mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with an equal amount of cold water in a small bowl until smooth. Stir this slurry into the simmering stew and cook uncovered on HIGH for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will thicken it right up! Can I use a different type of chicken in this recipe? Absolutely! If you’re looking for convenience, using rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. Just shred it and add it in during the last hour of cooking for a quick meal. You can also use skinless, boneless chicken for a leaner option, just keep in mind that it may cook faster, so adjust your cooking time accordingly. Are there any dietary considerations for this stew? This Crock Pot Chicken Stew is quite healthy but do consider any allergies! It contains chicken and some vegetables which are generally safe for most diets. If you’re cooking for someone with specific dietary restrictions, you can easily swap the chicken for a plant-based alternative and use vegetable broth instead for a vegan version. Enjoy customizing it! Crock Pot Chicken Stew for Cozy Nights and Happy Tummies Crock Pot Chicken Stew is a hearty, comforting dish packed with tender chicken and fresh vegetables, perfect for chilly evenings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 8 hours hrsTotal Time 8 hours hrs 15 minutes mins Servings: 6 bowlsCourse: ChickenCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Stew Base2 medium Sweet Onions Adds a touch of sweetness3 stalks Celery Brings crunch; diced bell peppers can replace4 carrots Carrots Provides color and sweetness4 medium Russet Potatoes Contributes heartiness4 cloves Garlic Deepens the flavor1 leaf Bay Leaf Imparts herbal notes1 tablespoon Fresh Thyme Elevates aroma1 tablespoon Fresh Rosemary Adds fragrance2 teaspoons Paprika Adds warmth2 teaspoons Poultry Seasoning Enhances flavor depthFor the Chicken2 pounds Bone-in Chicken Breasts or Thighs Ensures moisture and flavorFor the Broth6 cups Low-Sodium Chicken Broth Liquid base for stewFor Thickening (Optional)2 tablespoons Cornstarch Thickens the stew2 tablespoons Cold Water Used to mix with cornstarchSeasoning and Garnish1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Essential for flavor1 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper Adjust to taste1/4 cup Chopped Fresh Parsley Garnish for freshness Equipment Slow Cooker Method Step-by-Step InstructionsDice onions, celery, carrots, and potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Place in slow cooker with garlic, bay leaf, thyme, rosemary, salt, and paprika.Season chicken with salt and pepper, then place on top of the vegetables in the slow cooker.Pour in chicken broth, ensuring ingredients are submerged. Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.Shred the chicken with forks 30 minutes before serving and return to the stew.To thicken, mix cornstarch with water and stir into stew; cook on HIGH for an additional 30 minutes.Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, remove bay leaf, and serve garnished with parsley. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 30gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 150IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 3mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Stew freezes well for 3 months. Reheat on stovetop, adding broth if necessary. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
