There’s nothing quite like the smell of a hearty chicken stew simmering in the slow cooker. This recipe is the perfect balance of tender chicken, hearty potatoes, and wholesome veggies, all cooked low and slow to create a comforting dinner that feels like home. Whether it’s a chilly evening or just one of those busy days when you crave a cozy, no-fuss meal, this crockpot chicken stew is here to warm your table and your heart.
Recipe Info
| Category | Prep Time | Cook Time | Servings | Calories |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dinner | 15 mins | 6 hrs (low) or 3 hrs (high) | 6 | ~320 per serving |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts), cut into chunks
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Prep the chicken and veggies – Cut chicken into bite-sized chunks, peel and chop the potatoes, carrots, celery, and onion.
- Sear for extra flavor (optional) – Heat olive oil in a skillet and lightly brown the chicken pieces before adding them to the slow cooker. This step locks in flavor.
- Layer the ingredients – Place potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic in the bottom of the crockpot. Add chicken on top.
- Mix the broth – In a small bowl, whisk chicken broth with tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Pour over the chicken and veggies.
- Add bay leaves – Nestle them into the stew for that earthy aroma.
- Cook low and slow – Cover and cook on Low for 6–7 hours or High for 3–4 hours, until chicken is tender and potatoes are fork-soft.
- Thicken if desired – About 30 minutes before serving, stir in a slurry of flour + water to thicken the broth.
- Garnish and serve – Remove bay leaves, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve warm.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- For extra richness, stir in a splash of cream or half-and-half before serving.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Taste before serving—adjust salt and pepper to your family’s preference.
Recipe Variations
- Protein Swap: Use turkey thighs, beef stew meat, or lamb shoulder instead of chicken.
- Lighter Option: Use chicken breasts and skip the flour to make it a bit lighter.
- Veggie Boost: Add peas, green beans, or corn during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Serving Suggestions
This stew is a meal on its own, but you can pair it with:
- Warm crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the broth
- A fresh green salad for balance
- Steamed rice or egg noodles to make it even heartier
Conclusion
This slow cooker chicken stew is comfort in a bowl—simple, nourishing, and full of flavor. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight family dinner or prepping ahead for a weekend gathering, this cozy recipe is sure to bring everyone to the table with smiles.