Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe

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There’s something about a slow-simmered stew that just feels like home. The smell of herbs, garlic, and chicken slowly mingling together throughout the day? Yeah, that’s what comfort smells like. This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe is your new go-to for cozy nights, busy weekdays, or any time you want a hands-off, belly-warming dinner that feels like a hug in a bowl.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a kitchen newbie just trying not to burn water, trust me—this recipe is easy, hearty, and totally forgiving. So grab your slow cooker (or dig it out from the back of your cabinet) and let’s get to stewing!

Ingredients List

Main Ingredients:

1.5 to 2 lbs boneless chicken thighs (or breasts if you prefer)
4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
3 carrots, peeled and sliced
2 celery stalks, chopped
1 large onion, diced
4 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup tomato paste
4 cups low sodium chicken broth
2 bay leaves
1 tsp dried thyme

Seasoning:

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional: 1/2 tsp paprika or rosemary for extra flavor

Optional Thickening:

2 tbsp all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour, mixed with 1/4 cup cold water or broth

Garnish:

Fresh chopped parsley or thyme

This combo gives you a healthy chicken stew recipe that feels hearty without being heavy. Want a gluten-free chicken stew? Just swap in your favorite GF flour. Watching sodium? Go for low-sodium broth.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sear That Chicken (Optional But Worth It)

Heat a bit of oil in a skillet and sear your chicken for 2-3 minutes per side. You’re not cooking it all the way just giving it some color. This adds a ton of flavor to your chicken stew with herbs and aromatics.

Pro Tip: If you’re in a rush (or just not feeling like doing dishes), skip this step. The stew will still taste amazing.

Looking for another stew with a seared start? Check out our Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken for Cozy Nights.

Step 2: Load Up the Veggies

Add your potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic to the bottom of your slow cooker. Place the seared chicken on top.

Step 3: Add Tomato Paste, Herbs & Seasonings

Dollop in the tomato paste, toss in those bay leaves, thyme, a sprinkle of salt, black pepper, and anything else your heart desires (paprika, rosemary, chili flakes if you’re bold).

Step 4: Pour the Broth & Add Flour (If You Want It Thick)

Pour the chicken broth over everything. If you like a thickened chicken stew, mix flour with cold broth or water and pour that in too. Otherwise, it’ll be more like a chunky chicken soup (which is also delicious).

Step 5: Cook Low and Slow

Set your slow cooker:

LOW for 6-8 hours
HIGH for 3-4 hours

By the time it’s done, your chicken will be fork-tender and the vegetables will be melt-in-your-mouth soft.

Step 6: Shred, Garnish, Serve

Remove the bay leaves, shred the chicken with two forks, stir it back in, and sprinkle fresh herbs on top. Done!

Got extra chicken? Put it to delicious use with our Smart Ways to Use Leftover Chicken in Stews and More.

Why Slow Cooking Wins (And Tastes Like Magic)

It’s a Time-Saver for Busy Humans

Whether you’re juggling work, kids, Zoom meetings, or you just don’t want to hover over a stove, the slow cooker is your best friend. Dump it all in and walk away.

Flavor That Feels Fancy

Slow cooking draws out deep, rich flavors. Your chicken thigh stew will taste like it simmered all day (because, well, it did).

One Pot, No Stress

Only one pot to clean? Yes, please. And it’s great for one-pot chicken meals fans and easy stew for beginners.

It’s Basically Health Food (But You’ll Be Too Busy Enjoying It to Notice)

This stew is packed with protein, fiber, and nutrients. With the right swaps, it’s perfect for low sodium chicken recipes, gluten-free chicken stew, and nutritious chicken meals lovers.

Looking for something soothing when you’re under the weather? Try our Healing Turmeric Chicken Soup for Cold Days.

Tips, Swaps, and Tricks

Breast vs. Thigh: Chicken breast works fine if you prefer it. Just don’t overcook.
Veggie Flex: Add peas, green beans, zucchini, or sweet potatoes.
Make It Creamy: Stir in a bit of cream or coconut milk at the end.
Freeze It: Perfect for batch cooking. Let it cool completely before freezing in portions.

Got random ingredients? You’ll love our Juicy Chicken Breast Recipes Perfect for Stews.

Serving Suggestions

Bowl of creamy chicken stew with vegetables and crusty bread under natural light

Serve with warm, crusty bread
Spoon over rice or mashed potatoes
Add a green salad or roasted veggies on the side
Great for family dinner ideas, date nights, or solo lunches

Want another dinner idea that delivers big flavor? Try our Tender Chicken Drumsticks with Savory Tomato and Pepper Sauce.

Slow cooker chicken stew with carrots, peas, and potatoes in a hearty broth with text overlay

Slow cooker chicken stew served with crusty sourdough bread and fresh herbs

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts?

Totally. Just reduce the cooking time slightly so they don’t dry out.

Can I customize the veggies?

Of course! Throw in whatever’s lurking in the veggie drawer.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes. It gets even better the next day. Stew magic.

Is searing the chicken necessary?

Nope. It adds flavor but you can skip it if needed.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely. Let it cool, then freeze in portions for easy lunches or dinners.

Final Thoughts

This homemade chicken stew recipe is everything we love about food: simple, nourishing, flavorful, and low-effort. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together, fills the house with amazing smells, and makes you feel like you’ve got it all together (even if your laundry says otherwise).

So whether you’re meal-prepping, feeding a crowd, or just need a break from takeout, this stew’s got your back.

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