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Hearty Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Hearty Slow Cooker Chicken Stew


  • Author: Amelia
  • Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes to 8 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 to 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Hearty Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is a comforting, soul-satisfying meal perfect for chilly nights. Featuring tender chicken thighs, fresh vegetables, and a rich, savory broth, this slow-cooked stew develops deep flavors over hours. It’s a family-friendly dish that’s easy to prepare, nourishing, and ideal for warming up after a long day or hosting a cozy dinner.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 46 bone-in chicken thighs, skin removed

Vegetables

  • 3 large carrots, chopped into bite-sized pieces
  • 3 celery stalks, chopped
  • 3 medium potatoes, diced
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

Liquids & Base

  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste

Herbs & Spices

  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by chopping the carrots, celery, potatoes, and onions into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic cloves so they release their full flavor. Pat the chicken thighs dry to help lock in moisture during cooking.
  2. Sear the Chicken (Optional but Recommended): In a hot skillet, quickly brown the chicken thighs for 2-3 minutes per side. This step adds a golden crust and deeper flavor, but you can skip it if short on time.
  3. Layer Ingredients in the Slow Cooker: Place the chopped vegetables in the base of your slow cooker. Nestle the chicken on top, then sprinkle garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper over everything. Add tomato paste, then pour the chicken broth to cover the ingredients.
  4. Cook Low and Slow: Set your slow cooker on low for 6 to 8 hours, allowing flavors to meld together and chicken to become tender. Alternatively, cook on high for 3 to 4 hours if you need it sooner.
  5. Final Seasoning and Serve: Before serving, taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Give everything a gentle stir to combine. Ladle into bowls and prepare to enjoy one of the coziest dinners you’ll make all season.

Notes

  • Use bone-in chicken to add extra flavor and moisture to the stew.
  • Don’t skip browning the chicken; it develops deeper aromas and a richer taste.
  • Cut vegetables uniformly for even cooking and perfect texture.
  • Keep the slow cooker lid closed as much as possible to maintain heat and cooking time.
  • If desired, thicken the broth near the end by stirring in a slurry of 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 to 8 hours (low) or 3 to 4 hours (high)
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 1 1/2 cups)
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 700 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg

Keywords: slow cooker chicken stew, hearty chicken stew, comfort food, slow cooked chicken, easy chicken stew, family dinner, cold night meal