Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe | Easy And Comforting Stew

PUBLISHED September 22, 2025· MODIFIED September 22, 2025 · by the author listed in the recipe card 1154 words. · About 6 minutes to read this article.· This post may contain affiliate links · As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases· Leave a Comment

If you’re craving cozy comfort food that practically cooks itself, this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is the answer. It’s hearty, flavorful, and loaded with tender chicken, veggies, and a savory broth that thickens into the perfect stew consistency. With just a few minutes of prep, you can let your crockpot do the work while your kitchen fills with mouthwatering aromas

Why You’ll Love This Spectacular Stew

Hearty & Filling. Packed with protein, veggies, and potatoes for a complete one-pot meal.
Effortless Cooking. Just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it simmer to perfection.
Family-Friendly. A dish everyone loves, from kids to adults.
Make-Ahead Friendly. Perfect for meal prep, reheats beautifully, and even freezes well.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want leftovers for the week, this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew will quickly become a staple in your recipe rotation.

What Does Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Taste Like?

Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is the ultimate comfort food. The chicken turns melt-in-your-mouth tender, the vegetables absorb the savory broth, and the stew develops layers of flavor as it cooks low and slow.

Unlike stovetop versions, the crockpot method guarantees ease without sacrificing taste. It’s a wholesome, nourishing dish that warms you from the inside out.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Chicken Thighs or Breasts– The star protein of the stew. Thighs provide more richness and tenderness as they cook slowly, while chicken breasts are a leaner option if you prefer less fat.
Potatoes– Hearty and filling, they absorb the flavors of the broth while holding their shape, making the stew more substantial.
Carrots– Add a natural sweetness and a pop of color that balances the savory broth.
Celery– A key aromatic that brings depth and classic stew flavor to the base.
Onion & Garlic– Build the savory backbone of the stew, adding aroma and flavor complexity.
Chicken Broth– Forms the liquid base of the stew, infusing everything with rich, savory flavor; low-sodium broth allows better control over seasoning.
Tomato Paste– Adds a subtle tang and deepens the broth’s flavor with a touch of richness.
Bay Leaf & Thyme– Earthy, aromatic herbs that slowly infuse the stew with comforting flavor as it simmers.
Salt & Pepper– Essential seasonings that bring balance and enhance every layer of flavor.
Cornstarch Slurry– Used to thicken the stew if you prefer a richer, creamier consistency.

How To Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Prepare the Ingredients. Chop your potatoes, carrots, celery, and onion into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic for that extra savory punch.
Add to Slow Cooker. Place chicken, vegetables, garlic, broth, tomato paste, and seasonings into the crockpot. Stir to combine.
Slow Cook. Cover and cook on Low for 7–8 hours or High for 3–4 hours, until chicken and veggies are tender.
Dice & Thicken. Remove the chicken, chop it into bite-sized chunks, and return it to the pot. If desired, stir in a cornstarch slurry to thicken the broth.
Garnish & Serve. Remove bay leaf, taste for seasoning, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Pair with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Tips And Tricks

Making Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is all about building deep, comforting flavors while letting the slow cooker do the hard work. With just a few simple techniques, you can take your stew from good to unforgettable. Here are some tips and tricks to help you get it just right:

Cut Vegetables Evenly. Uniform pieces ensure even cooking.
Add Greens at the End. Stir in spinach or kale during the last 15 minutes for extra nutrients.
Adjust Thickness. For a creamier stew, stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk before serving.

Variations

One of the best things about Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is how versatile it can be. You can easily switch up ingredients to match your taste, dietary needs, or whatever you have on hand. Here are some delicious variations to try:

Creamy- Add a half cup of heavy cream or coconut milk for a rich, creamy broth.
Spicy- Stir in a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a kick.
Gluten-Free- Skip flour-based thickeners and use cornstarch or arrowroot slurry.
Low-Carb- Swap potatoes for cauliflower florets.

What To Eat With Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is hearty and satisfying on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can make your meal even more comforting and complete. Here are some delicious options to enjoy with it:

Bread or Dinner Rolls– Perfect for soaking up the savory broth.
Salad– A light, fresh green salad balances the richness of the stew.
Rice or Quinoa– Serve the stew over grains for an even heartier meal.
Roasted Vegetables– Complement the stew with roasted Brussels sprouts, green beans, or squash.

How Long Does It Last?

Slow Cooker Chicken Stew lasts 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

Can You Freeze It?

Yes! This stew freezes beautifully. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Lay flat for easier storage.

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat until hot. The flavors often taste even better after freezing, making this an excellent meal prep recipe.

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