There’s something magical about coming home to the comforting aroma of Slow Cooker Chicken Stew simmering away, promising a hearty, wholesome dinner with almost no effort. This easy recipe is packed with tender chicken thighs, rustic vegetables, and a savory broth loaded with herbs and a touch of tomato richness. Whether you’re seeking a stress-free weeknight meal or want a dish to warm your soul on a chilly day, this stew delivers big flavor, plenty of nutrition, and the kind of coziness that only a slow-cooked meal can provide.

Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is in its simplicity. Each ingredient brings something special, from the savory depth of chicken thighs to the sweet pop of peas and the vibrant color of carrots. Here’s what you’ll need (and why!):

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs (1.5 lbs): These stay juicy and tender even after hours of slow cooking, giving the stew that irresistible, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Carrots (3 medium, sliced): They add natural sweetness and beautiful color, making every spoonful more inviting.
Potatoes (3 medium, peeled and diced): Potatoes offer comforting starch and soak up all the savory flavors of the broth.
Celery (2 stalks, sliced): Celery brings a subtle earthiness and crunch that balances the other veggies perfectly.
Onion (1 medium, chopped): Onion lays the aromatic foundation, infusing the stew with savory undertones.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic provides a pungent kick and layers of flavor throughout.
Diced tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz, undrained): Tomatoes add acidity, moisture, and a touch of sweetness to round out the broth.
Low-sodium chicken broth (3 cups): This forms the hearty base of your stew and allows all the other flavors to meld together.
Dried thyme (1 teaspoon): Thyme delivers woodsy, herbal notes that are classic for chicken dishes.
Dried rosemary (1 teaspoon): Rosemary’s piney flavor pairs beautifully with chicken and root vegetables.
Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): A touch of paprika brings a gentle warmth and subtle smokiness.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of all the ingredients.
Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds just the right amount of mild heat and complexity.
Tomato paste (2 tablespoons): Intensifies the tomato flavor and helps create a richer broth.
All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons, optional): If you like your stew thicker, this is your go-to thickener.
Frozen peas (1 cup, added at the end): They add a pop of color and freshness right before serving.
Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped, for garnish): A sprinkle of parsley at the end brightens up the whole dish.

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Step 1: Layer Everything Into the Slow Cooker

Start by adding your chicken thighs, carrots, potatoes, celery, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes (with their juices), chicken broth, thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, black pepper, and tomato paste directly into the slow cooker. Give everything a thorough stir to evenly distribute the seasonings and ensure the chicken and veggies are nestled nicely in the flavorful liquid. This step is as easy as it gets, but it’s the secret to unlocking all those wonderful flavors as the Slow Cooker Chicken Stew gently simmers.

Step 2: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for 7 to 8 hours or high for 4 to 5 hours. During this time, the chicken will become fork-tender, and the vegetables will soften while soaking up the savory broth. This hands-off approach lets you get on with your day while dinner takes care of itself!

Step 3: Thicken the Stew (Optional)

If you like your stew a little heartier, mix the all-purpose flour with 1/4 cup of water to make a smooth slurry. About 30 minutes before serving, stir this mixture into the stew. The broth will thicken up as it finishes cooking, giving your Slow Cooker Chicken Stew that classic, stick-to-your-ribs consistency.

Step 4: Add the Peas

Ten minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the frozen peas. They cook quickly and add a sweet, vibrant burst of green that brightens up the entire pot. This final touch keeps the peas tender and fresh, not overcooked.

Step 5: Taste, Adjust, and Garnish

Before serving, taste your Slow Cooker Chicken Stew and adjust the seasoning if needed. A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley on top is the perfect finishing flourish, adding both color and a hint of garden-fresh flavor.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Garnishes

A generous handful of chopped fresh parsley is a must for this stew, offering freshness and color. For even more flavor, try a dash of freshly cracked black pepper, a drizzle of good olive oil, or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese just before serving. These little touches can elevate your Slow Cooker Chicken Stew from comforting to company-worthy!

Side Dishes

Crusty bread is practically non-negotiable—perfect for soaking up every last drop of that delicious broth. This stew also pairs beautifully with steamed rice, buttered noodles, or a simple side salad. If you’re feeling extra cozy, serve with warm biscuits straight from the oven, and watch everyone beg for seconds.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, ladle your Slow Cooker Chicken Stew into hollowed-out bread bowls or serve it over creamy mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort food experience. You can also offer small mugs or ramekins at gatherings for a rustic, grab-and-go appetizer everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftover Slow Cooker Chicken Stew cool to room temperature before transferring to airtight containers. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it perfect for meal prep or a quick, nourishing lunch the next day.

Freezing

This stew freezes beautifully! Spoon cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags (be sure to leave a little room for expansion). Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm the stew gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot. You can also microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl, pausing to stir halfway through. Add a splash of chicken broth if the stew has thickened too much during storage.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts work well in this recipe if you prefer a leaner protein. Just be mindful not to overcook them, as they can dry out more easily than thighs.

What if I don’t have tomato paste?

If you’re out of tomato paste, you can skip it or use a little extra diced tomato. The stew will still be delicious, though the broth may be a bit lighter in color and flavor.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in chopped bell peppers, parsnips, or even a handful of spinach at the end. This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is wonderfully flexible and welcomes extra veggies.

How can I make this gluten-free?

Simply omit the flour or use a gluten-free thickener like cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend. The stew is naturally gluten-free otherwise.

Is it possible to prep everything the night before?

Yes! You can chop all your vegetables and chicken, then store them in the fridge overnight. In the morning, just dump everything into the slow cooker, add the broth and seasonings, and you’re good to go.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a meal that’s both nourishing and soul-satisfying, Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is the answer. It’s a foolproof recipe you’ll want to tuck into your regular rotation, perfect for sharing with friends or savoring on a quiet night in. Give it a try—you’ll love how easy and comforting homemade stew can be!

Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe

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4.6 from 29 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is a hearty and comforting meal perfect for any day. Tender chunks of chicken thighs simmer with fresh vegetables like carrots, potatoes, celery, and peas in a flavorful broth enhanced with herbs and spices. It’s an easy, hands-off recipe that delivers a warm, satisfying dish with minimal effort, ideal for busy weeknights or meal prepping.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Vegetables

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
3 medium carrots, sliced
3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
2 celery stalks, sliced
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup frozen peas (added at the end)

Liquids and Seasonings

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons tomato paste

Optional

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

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Instructions

Combine Ingredients: Place the chicken, sliced carrots, diced potatoes, celery, chopped onion, minced garlic, undrained diced tomatoes, chicken broth, dried thyme, dried rosemary, paprika, salt, black pepper, and tomato paste into the slow cooker. Stir everything together to combine the ingredients evenly.
Cook the Stew: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 7 to 8 hours or on high for 4 to 5 hours. Cook until the chicken is tender and the vegetables are fully cooked through, developing rich flavors.
Thicken the Stew (Optional): If you prefer a thicker stew, about 30 minutes before the end of cooking, whisk the all-purpose flour with 1/4 cup water to make a slurry. Stir this slurry into the slow cooker and allow it to cook for the remaining time to thicken the stew.
Add Frozen Peas: Approximately 10 minutes before serving, stir in the frozen peas to let them heat through without losing their texture and vibrant color.
Adjust Seasoning and Garnish: Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Garnish with the chopped fresh parsley before serving to add a fresh, herbal note and colorful finish.

Notes

This stew can be made with boneless chicken breasts if preferred for leaner meat.
For extra depth of flavor, sauté the onions, garlic, and tomato paste in a little oil before adding them to the slow cooker.
Serve the stew with crusty bread or over steamed rice to make it a more filling meal.
To keep it gluten-free, omit the all-purpose flour or substitute with a gluten-free thickener.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American