Diving into the world of slow cooker meals brings us to this gem: a chicken stew that’s not only easy to make but also packed with flavors that meld together beautifully over hours of slow cooking. Perfect for those busy days when you want dinner ready without the fuss.
Why This Recipe Works
- The slow cooker does all the work, allowing flavors to deepen and meat to become tender without any effort on your part.
- Using a mix of fresh vegetables and herbs ensures a vibrant and hearty stew that’s nutritious and satisfying.
- This recipe is incredibly versatile; you can easily swap ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- It’s a one-pot meal, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy your delicious creation.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, cut into chunks
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
Equipment Needed
- Slow cooker
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Large skillet
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken chunks with salt and pepper, then brown them in the skillet for about 3-4 minutes per side. You’re not cooking them through, just getting a nice color. Transfer the chicken to the slow cooker. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the skillet; brown in batches if necessary.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they start to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir to coat. This will help thicken the stew later.
Step 3: Combine Everything in the Slow Cooker
Transfer the sautéed vegetables to the slow cooker with the chicken. Add the chicken broth, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Give everything a good stir to combine. Tip: If you prefer a thicker stew, you can add an extra tablespoon of flour at this stage.
Step 4: Cook Low and Slow
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The stew is ready when the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork. Tip: Resist the urge to open the lid too often; it lets heat escape and increases cooking time.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Once the stew is done, taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, preferably with a side of crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort meal.
Tips and Tricks
For those looking to elevate their chicken stew game, consider these advanced tips. First, using homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought can significantly enhance the flavor depth of your stew. Second, adding a splash of white wine when sautéing the vegetables introduces a subtle acidity that balances the richness. Lastly, for a creamier texture, stir in a quarter cup of heavy cream or coconut milk during the last 30 minutes of cooking. These small tweaks can transform your stew from good to gourmet.
Recipe Variations
- For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of chili flakes when sautéing the vegetables.
- Swap the chicken thighs for breast meat if you prefer a leaner option, but be mindful of cooking time to avoid dryness.
- Incorporate root vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes for added sweetness and texture.
- For a gluten-free version, use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken the stew.
- Add a can of drained and rinsed white beans during the last hour of cooking for extra protein and fiber.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze the chicken stew?
Absolutely! This chicken stew freezes beautifully. Cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables can be a convenient substitute. However, since they release more water, you might need to adjust the cooking time slightly and possibly thicken the stew a bit more at the end.
How can I make this stew in an Instant Pot?
To adapt this recipe for an Instant Pot, use the sauté function to brown the chicken and sauté the vegetables. Then, add the remaining ingredients, seal the lid, and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes. Allow a natural release for 10 minutes before quick releasing any remaining pressure.
Summary
This slow cooker chicken stew is the epitome of comfort food, combining tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and aromatic herbs in a rich broth. It’s a fuss-free, one-pot meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. With the flexibility to customize ingredients and the convenience of slow cooking, it’s a recipe you’ll return to time and again.
