Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Introduction

As the temperatures drop and the days get shorter, nothing warms the soul quite like a hearty stew. Recently, I tried a creamy chicken stew recipe that promised comfort without the heaviness of cream, and it did not disappoint! My family gathered around the table, and the aroma wafting through the house created an atmosphere of warmth and anticipation. The tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and delightful spices melded together beautifully, making this slow cooker chicken stew a new family favorite. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for those busy days when you want a comforting meal waiting for you at the end of the day.

Ingredients

To whip up this delightful slow cooker chicken stew, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 ½ pounds chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• ½ teaspoon salt, plus more to season
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 large potatoes, cut into ½-inch cubes (1 pound)
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 bay leaf
• ½ cup milk
• 1 cup frozen green peas

Instructions

Prep the Chicken

1. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides (about 5-7 minutes). No need to cook the chicken through; just get it nice and golden.

Mix Flour & Spices

4. In a small bowl, mix the flour, thyme, rosemary, and ½ teaspoon of salt.
5. Sprinkle this mixture over the browned chicken and stir to coat evenly.

Slow Cooker Setup

6. Transfer the coated chicken to your slow cooker.
7. Add the minced garlic, diced onion, sliced carrots, and cubed potatoes.
8. Pour in the chicken broth and toss in the bay leaf.

Cook

9. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.

Finishing Touches

10. About 30 minutes before the cooking time ends, remove the bay leaf and stir in the ½ cup of milk and 1 cup of frozen peas.
11. Continue cooking until the peas are heated through, about 20-30 minutes.

Serve & Enjoy!

Ladle into bowls and enjoy this hearty, comforting chicken stew with some crusty bread on the side!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 6
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 350

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 7-8 hours (including slow cooking)
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high

How to Serve

To serve this delicious slow cooker chicken stew:

• Ladle into bowls.
• Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
• Serve with crusty bread or rolls for dipping.
• Pair with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
• Offer a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.

Additional Tips

1. Use Bone-in Chicken: For even more flavor, consider using bone-in chicken thighs. Just remove the bones after cooking.
2. Vegetable Variety: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables, such as celery or bell peppers, to customize the stew.
3. Spice It Up: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
4. Make It a Meal Prep: This stew freezes well, making it great for meal prep. Simply divide it into portions and store in airtight containers.
5. Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh thyme or rosemary, use them instead of dried for a more vibrant flavor.

Recipe Variations

• Creamy Version: If you prefer a creamier stew, you can substitute half of the chicken broth with heavy cream.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms and add beans for protein.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like oregano or sage to change the flavor profile.
• Curry Twist: Add curry powder for a delicious twist and serve with rice.
• Low-Carb Version: Omit the potatoes and add extra green beans or cauliflower for a low-carb alternative.

Serving Suggestions

• Crusty Bread: Serve with a loaf of sourdough or French bread for dipping.
• Green Salad: A light side salad can complement the richness of the stew.
• Cheese: Offer a selection of cheeses on the side for a tasty addition.
• Wine Pairing: A nice white wine, such as Chardonnay, pairs beautifully with this dish.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Allow the stew to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Thawing: When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove or in the microwave.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, but chicken thighs are recommended for their tenderness and flavor.

2. Can I make this stew without a slow cooker?
Absolutely! You can prepare it on the stovetop in a large pot. Just reduce the cooking time.

3. Is this stew gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free flour or omit the flour entirely.

4. Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, you can add vegetables like green beans, corn, or bell peppers.

5. What type of potatoes are best?
Yukon gold or russet potatoes work well, but any variety will do.

6. How do I make it spicier?
Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick.

7. Is there a vegetarian version?
Yes, substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables and beans for protein.

8. Can I cook it overnight?
It’s best to avoid cooking on low for more than 8 hours to prevent overcooking.

9. How do I thicken the stew?
You can whisk in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) before serving.

10. Can I make this stew in advance?
Yes, it tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Conclusion

This slow cooker chicken stew is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings. It’s easy to make and requires minimal hands-on time, making it an ideal option for busy families. With its creamy texture without the added cream, it’s a healthier choice that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Gather your loved ones around the table, serve this stew with some crusty bread, and enjoy the warmth it brings—not just to your bodies but also to your hearts. Give it a try, and I promise it will become a staple in your meal rotation!

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