Print

Hearty Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Hearty Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Print Recipe

Cozy up with Hearty Slow Cooker Chicken Stew, a flavorful and easy-to-make comfort food featuring tender chicken thighs, vibrant vegetables, and fresh herbs slow-cooked to perfection. This nourishing stew fills your home with irresistible aromas and delivers a warming, satisfying meal ideal for chilly days or any time you crave wholesome comfort food.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1.5 to 2 pounds chicken thighs, bone-in and skin removed

Vegetables

  • 3 large carrots, peeled and chopped
  • 3 celery stalks, chopped
  • 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

Liquids & Base

  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste

Herbs & Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (add near end)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

Optional Cooking Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing aromatics)
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water (for thickening)

Instructions

  1. Prep Your Ingredients: Chop the carrots, celery, onion, and potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic, and trim the chicken thighs of any excess fat for a leaner stew.
  2. Sauté Aromatics (Optional but Recommended): In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This adds richer flavor but can be skipped for convenience.
  3. Combine in Slow Cooker: Layer the chicken thighs in the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the chopped vegetables on top. Stir in tomato paste, thyme, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Pour the chicken broth over everything to cover.
  4. Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. This long cooking time makes the chicken tender and allows flavors to meld deeply.
  5. Final Touches: About 15 minutes before serving, check seasoning and adjust salt and pepper if needed. If a thicker stew is desired, stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for another 15 minutes until thickened. Add chopped fresh parsley just before serving for brightness.

Notes

  • Use bone-in chicken thighs for extra flavor and richness.
  • Don’t overcrowd the slow cooker; leave space for even heat circulation.
  • Add delicate herbs like parsley towards the end to preserve their fresh taste.
  • Cut potatoes slightly larger to keep them chunky and avoid mushiness.
  • Browning chicken first adds color and deeper flavor but is optional.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://recipesemilly.com/hearty-slow-cooker-chicken-stew/