Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is a hearty, comforting dish perfect for chilly days or busy weeknights. Packed with tender chicken, chunky vegetables, and savory herbs, it simmers slowly to develop deep, rich flavors. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this one-pot meal is ideal for families and meal-prep enthusiasts alike.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chicken thighs or breasts (boneless, skinless)potatoescarrotsceleryoniongarlicchicken brothtomato pasteolive oilbay leavesdried thymeparsleydried rosemarysaltpeppercornstapioca or cornstarch (for thickening, optional)

directions

Heat a bit of olive oil in a skillet and sear the chicken pieces for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly browned. This step adds flavor but is optional.

Place the seared chicken in the bottom of the slow cooker.

Add chopped potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic on top of the chicken.

Stir together the chicken broth and tomato paste until smooth, then pour it over the ingredients in the slow cooker.

Add bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, parsley, salt, and peppercorns.

Cover and cook on low for 7–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours, until the chicken and vegetables are tender.

Optional: In the last 30 minutes of cooking, mix tapioca or cornstarch with a bit of cold water to make a slurry. Stir it into the stew to thicken.

Remove bay leaves before serving. Shred the chicken if desired and stir to combine.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 6 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 7–8 hours (low) or 4–5 hours (high)Optional thickening time: 5 minutesTotal time: 4–8 hours depending on cooking setting

Variations

Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a sweeter flavor.

Add green beans, peas, or corn in the last hour of cooking for more veggie variety.

Use bone-in chicken for more flavor, removing bones before serving.

Add a splash of cream or coconut milk for a richer stew.

Make it spicy with a pinch of red pepper flakes or hot sauce.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until hot.Freeze in portions for up to 3 months—thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken in the slow cooker?

It’s best to thaw chicken first to ensure safe and even cooking.

What’s the best cut of chicken to use?

Boneless, skinless thighs are juicy and flavorful, but breasts also work well.

Can I skip searing the chicken?

Yes, searing adds flavor but isn’t necessary if you’re short on time.

How do I make it thicker?

Use a cornstarch or tapioca slurry toward the end of cooking for a thicker consistency.

Can I cook it on high instead of low?

Yes, high for 4–5 hours works well, though low and slow yields deeper flavor.

Is this stew gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your broth and thickener are gluten-free.

Can I add noodles or rice?

Serve it over rice or stir in cooked noodles just before serving.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but ensure your slow cooker has enough capacity to avoid overflow.

What can I serve with chicken stew?

Crusty bread, biscuits, or a light green salad make great sides.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Substitute chicken with chickpeas or white beans and use vegetable broth.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is the ultimate comfort food that practically cooks itself. It’s warm, filling, and packed with flavor—perfect for cozy nights or effortless meal prep. Once you try this easy, satisfying recipe, it’s bound to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.