Description
This comforting Slow Cooker Chicken Stew combines tender chicken pieces with hearty vegetables simmered in a rich, flavorful broth. Perfect for a cozy meal, this stew is easy to prepare with a slow cooker, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully over several hours for a satisfying and wholesome dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Vegetables
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 carrots, diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Broth and Seasonings
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Sear the Chicken: In a skillet over medium-high heat, sear the chicken pieces until golden brown. This step enhances the flavor of the stew by developing a rich, caramelized surface on the chicken.
- Assemble in Slow Cooker: Transfer the seared chicken, carrots, celery, onion, potatoes, minced garlic, and bay leaves into the slow cooker, layering the ingredients evenly.
- Add Seasonings and Broth: Sprinkle dried thyme, salt, and pepper over the ingredients in the slow cooker. Then stir in the tomato paste and pour in the low-sodium chicken broth. If a thicker stew is desired, sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir gently to combine without lumps.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The stew is ready when the vegetables are tender and the chicken is cooked through, allowing all the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Remove the bay leaves before serving to avoid any bitterness. Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Notes
- Searing the chicken before slow cooking adds depth of flavor but can be skipped for convenience.
- The optional flour can be replaced with cornstarch for gluten-free thickening.
- Use chicken thighs for juicier meat or breasts for a leaner option.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to taste preferences.
- This stew pairs well with crusty bread or over cooked rice.
