Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

If you’re looking for a cozy, hearty meal that practically cooks itself, look no further than this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sunday afternoons, this dish is a one-pot wonder that brings together tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs, all simmered to perfection. The beauty of slow cooking is that it allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a comforting dish that warms your heart and soul. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to make; just toss in your ingredients, set the timer, and let your slow cooker do the magic!

Why This Recipe Works

This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is not just another chicken dish. The combination of bone-in chicken and a variety of fresh vegetables creates a depth of flavor that is hard to resist. The slow cooking process allows the chicken to become tender and juicy, while the vegetables maintain their shape and flavor. Adding dried sage elevates the taste, giving it a warm, earthy note that complements the other ingredients beautifully. Plus, the use of low-sodium chicken broth ensures that you can control the saltiness of the dish, making it a healthier choice for your family.

Ingredient Breakdown

• 1 cup white whole wheat flour – This adds a nutty flavor and a bit of heartiness to the stew.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – A simple spice that balances the flavors.
• Kosher or sea salt to taste – Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• 1 teaspoon dried sage – Provides a warm, herbal note that complements chicken.
• 1/4 cup oil (canola or unrefined coconut oil) – For sautéing and adding healthy fats.
• 2 1/2 pounds skinless, bone-in chicken – The star of the dish, providing protein and flavor.
• 3 carrots, sliced – Adds sweetness and color.
• 1 potato, cubed – A hearty addition that makes the stew filling.
• 2 celery stalks, sliced – Adds crunch and depth.
• 1 yellow onion, thinly sliced into rings – A foundational flavor that enriches the stew.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced – Infuses the stew with aromatic goodness.
• 2 cups low sodium fat-free chicken broth – The base of your stew, providing moisture and flavor.
• 1 cup frozen peas – Added at the end for a pop of color and sweetness.

Prep & Cook Tools

• Slow cooker – The star tool that makes this recipe so easy.
• Knife and cutting board – For chopping your vegetables and chicken.
• Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure accuracy in your ingredients.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – For stirring the stew.
• Serving bowls – For enjoying your delicious stew.

Directions: Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by slicing your carrots, celery, and onion. Cube the potato and mince the garlic. Make sure your chicken is ready to go—if it’s not already skinless and bone-in, prepare it accordingly.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a medium skillet, heat the canola or coconut oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until they are translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

In your slow cooker, add the sautéed onions and garlic, followed by the sliced carrots, cubed potato, and sliced celery. Nestle the chicken on top of the vegetables.

Step 4: Add the Seasonings

Sprinkle the flour, black pepper, sage, and salt over the chicken and vegetables. Pour the low-sodium chicken broth directly into the slow cooker, ensuring that the chicken and vegetables are submerged.

Step 5: Cook

Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours. The longer you cook it, the more tender the chicken will be!

Step 6: Add the Peas

In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the frozen peas to the stew. This will keep them vibrant and fresh while still allowing them to warm up.

Step 7: Serve

Once the cooking time is up, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker if you’d like, or serve the whole pieces in bowls. Enjoy your hearty stew with some crusty bread or over a bed of rice.

Season-by-Season Upgrades

• Spring: Add fresh asparagus or peas for a burst of spring flavor.
• Summer: Toss in some zucchini or bell peppers for a refreshing twist.
• Autumn: Incorporate butternut squash or sweet potatoes for a seasonal flair.
• Winter: Use hearty greens like kale or spinach for added nutrition and color.

Avoid These Traps

• Don’t skip the sautéing step for the onions and garlic; it adds depth of flavor.
• Be sure not to overfill your slow cooker; leave some space for the ingredients to expand.
• Avoid using high-sodium broth unless you prefer a saltier stew.
• Don’t forget to adjust the seasoning at the end; taste is key!

Save for Later: Storage Tips

This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is perfect for meal prepping. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To freeze, let the stew cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Quick Q&A

Can I use boneless chicken instead of bone-in?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken, but it may not have the same depth of flavor since the bones add richness to the broth.

Is there a way to thicken the stew if it’s too watery?

If your stew turns out too thin, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water and stir it into the stew. Let it cook for an additional 30 minutes to thicken.

What can I serve with this stew?

This stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, rice, or even a side salad for a complete meal.

Can I make this stew in advance?

Absolutely! This stew actually tastes even better the next day, as the flavors continue to meld. Just refrigerate it and reheat when you’re ready to serve.

Desserts to Finish

• Apple Crisp – A warm and comforting dessert to complement your hearty meal.
• Chocolate Chip Cookies – A classic treat that everyone loves.
• Pumpkin Pie – Perfect for the fall season, it’s a sweet ending to your meal.

Serve & Enjoy

Gather your family and friends around the table and serve up bowls of this delightful Slow Cooker Chicken Stew. The rich aroma and vibrant colors will surely entice everyone, and the heartiness of the dish will keep them coming back for more. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you simply want a comforting meal, this stew is the answer. Enjoy the warmth of this dish and the joy that comes with sharing a home-cooked meal with loved ones.