Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew for Cozy Family Dinners

October 13, 2025October 13, 2025 by Jake

Sometimes life gets so busy that you just need a recipe that’s not only delicious but also mostly makes itself. That’s where this slow cooker chicken stew comes into play. Perfect for those hectic days when you’re juggling a million things (trust me, I’ve had a few), this stew is a lifesaver. Toss everything into the slow cooker in the morning, and by the time dinner rolls around, you’ve got a hearty meal ready to go. And if you’re on the hunt for more easy slow cooker ideas, check out my slow cooker beef chili recipe too!

Why you’ll love this recipe

This slow cooker chicken stew is like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s packed with tender chicken and colorful veggies, making it both nutritious and satisfying. The best part? Its hands-off cooking style means you can go about your day without worrying about dinner! You also get to savor all those lovely savory flavors that develop during the slow cooking process.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this comforting stew:

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 ½ cups yellow onion
5 carrots
1 pound baby Yukon gold potatoes
3 celery sticks
3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
½ tablespoon tomato paste
4 teaspoons garlic
1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon dried rosemary
½ teaspoon dried thyme
2 bay leaves
½ cup milk
¼ cup cornstarch
1 ¼ cups frozen peas

Step-by-step instructions

Getting started

Start by prepping your slow cooker for a day’s worth of magic. Place the chicken, onions, carrots, potatoes, and celery inside. This is your flavorful base that’s about to get even better.

Mixing the magic potion

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, garlic, poultry seasoning, black pepper, salt, rosemary, and thyme. Pour this over your chicken and veggie rainbow. Top with the bay leaves for that subtle, aromatic twist.

Slow cooking

Cover your slow cooker, set it on low for 7–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours, and let the heat do its thing. I usually opt for the low setting if I’ve got a full day of errands ahead. It’s nice to know dinner is cooking itself while I’m out and about.

Thickening things up

About 20 minutes before you’re ready to eat, mix the milk and cornstarch in a small bowl to create a smooth slurry. Pour this into the slow cooker along with the peas. Let it cook stirred, thickening up the delicious sauce. Before serving, don’t forget to fish out those bay leaves!

Recipe tips & variations

Mix it up with different vegetables—try adding some mushrooms for a different taste. If you’re short on chicken breasts, thighs work well too, providing a richer flavor. For a tangy kick, squeeze a bit of lemon juice just before serving. Like things spicy? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce.

Storage & reheating

Got leftovers? No problem! Store the cooled stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, the freezer is your friend. Just let it thaw overnight in the fridge when you plan to enjoy it again. When reheating, a gentle simmer on the stove will bring it back to its warm, delicious self.

FAQs

Can I leave my slow cooker on while I’m out?

Yes, that’s the beauty of slow cooking! Just ensure your machine is functioning properly and follow all safety guidelines.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Swap the Worcestershire sauce for a gluten-free version and ensure your cornstarch is also certified gluten-free.

What can I use instead of cornstarch?

Feel free to use arrowroot powder or flour, but adjust quantities to reach your desired thickness.

Is there a dairy-free version?

Absolutely! Use a plant-based milk alternative when making your slurry.

Recipes you may like

If this slow cooker chicken stew has won your heart, you might want to try these other fan-favorite recipes: