Slow Cooker Chicken Stew – Easy Crock Pot Recipe for Cozy Winter Dinners

Name: Slow Cooker Chicken Stew - Easy Crock Pot Recipe for Cozy Winter Dinners
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 240 min
Total time: 255 min
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts; 4 medium potatoes, cubed; 3 large carrots, sliced; 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup frozen peas; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp dried rosemary; 1 bay leaf; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp cornstarch (for thickening); 2 tbsp water (for slurry)

Hearty slow cooker chicken stew with vegetables in a rich broth

This slow cooker chicken stew is the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights and cozy winter evenings. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious, hearty meal that cooks itself while you go about your day. The combination of tender chicken, wholesome vegetables, and savory broth creates a satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners and meal prep.

What makes this recipe truly special is how effortlessly it comes together. Whether you call it crock pot chicken stew or slow cooker stew, this one-pot wonder delivers incredible flavor with minimal effort. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that will quickly become a family favorite.

Ingredients

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
4 medium potatoes, cubed
3 large carrots, sliced
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup frozen peas
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp cornstarch (for thickening)
2 tbsp water (for slurry)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the vegetables by washing and cutting the potatoes, carrots, and onion. Mince the garlic cloves.

Step 2: Place the chicken pieces in the bottom of your slow cooker. Arrange the potatoes, carrots, and onion around the chicken.

Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the chicken and vegetables.

Step 4: Add the bay leaf to the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Step 5: About 30 minutes before serving, remove the chicken and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.

Step 6: In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Stir this into the stew to thicken it. Add the frozen peas and cook for another 20-30 minutes.

Step 7: Remove the bay leaf before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Expert Tips for Perfect Chicken Stew

Choose the Right Chicken: Chicken thighs stay more tender during long cooking, but breasts work well too. For a high-protein option, use a combination of both.

Don’t Overcook Vegetables: If you prefer firmer vegetables, add carrots and potatoes about 2-3 hours into cooking rather than at the beginning.

Thickening Options: For a gluten-free thickener, use cornstarch as directed. You can also mash some of the potatoes against the side of the slow cooker to naturally thicken the stew.

Meal Prep Friendly: This stew freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Portion it into containers for easy meal prep lunches or quick dinners.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, but increase cooking time by 1-2 hours. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

What other vegetables can I add? Celery, green beans, corn, or mushrooms all work well. Add delicate vegetables like peas or corn during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

How long does it keep in the refrigerator? Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days. The flavors actually improve overnight!

Can I make this stew ahead? Absolutely! Prepare everything except the thickening step. Refrigerate overnight, then add the cornstarch slurry when reheating.

This comforting chicken stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or over rice. For a complete meal, serve it alongside garlic parmesan roasted green beans for a balanced dinner that everyone will love.