Ah, let me tell you about my favorite go-to dish for those chilly days or when I just need a little warmth in my life – Slow Cooker Chicken Stew! There’s something so comforting about a hearty bowl of stew simmering away all day, filling your home with the most enticing aromas. I can fondly remember some rainy Sundays spent in the kitchen, chopping vegetables and tossing everything into the slow cooker. The anticipation of that warm, delicious meal is enough to make anyone’s heart flutter!
One of the best parts about this stew is its simplicity. You can truly make it your own with whatever veggies or seasonings you have on hand! It’s a dish that brings my family together; everyone gathers around the table with big bowls in hand, chatting and sharing stories, and that’s the magic of home-cooked meals. Let’s dive in!
What’s in Slow Cooker Chicken Stew?
Chicken pieces: I prefer using thighs because they’re so tender and juicy after cooking, but breasts work just fine too! It really comes down to personal preference and what you have on hand.
Carrots: These sweet, vibrant veggies not only add color but also a lovely hint of sweetness to the stew. Slice them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking!
Potatoes: I love using Yukon Gold potatoes – they hold their shape well and provide that satisfying starchiness in every spoonful.
Onions: A staple in many dishes! Onions add depth and flavor, so don’t skip out on them. You can use yellow or white onions, whichever you prefer.
Celery: Celery adds a wonderful crunch and works beautifully alongside the other veggies. I chop them into small pieces so they integrate well into the stew.
Garlic: You can never go wrong with garlic! It adds a punch of flavor that pairs perfectly with the chicken and veggies. I usually toss in a couple of minced cloves.
Chicken broth: This is the magic elixir that brings all the ingredients together. Low-sodium broth is a great option to control the saltiness.
Seasonings: I keep it simple with salt, pepper, and a mix of herbs like thyme and bay leaves. Fresh or dried herbs work well, but I often go with dried for convenience.
Is Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Good for You?
Absolutely! This stew is not just delicious; it has some great health benefits too.
Chicken: It’s a fantastic source of lean protein, which helps keep you full, builds muscle, and supports overall health.
Vegetables: The array of veggies adds valuable nutrients and fiber, which aids in digestion and provides a variety of vitamins. Who knew comfort food could be so good for you?
Garlic: Besides its delightful flavor, garlic is known for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. Yes, please!
However, keep in mind the portion sizes and the salt content in your chicken broth and added seasonings. Moderation is key, as with any dish!
Ingredients List
– 4 chicken thighs or breasts (boneless, skinless)
– 2 large carrots, chopped
– 4 medium potatoes, diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 stalks of celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Dried thyme and bay leaves (to taste)
This recipe serves about 4-6 people, which is perfect for leftovers or meal prepping for the week!
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew?
1. Start by chopping all your vegetables into bite-sized pieces. It doesn’t have to be perfect, but uniform sizes will help them cook evenly.
2. In the bottom of your slow cooker, add the chopped onions, followed by the carrots, potatoes, and celery.
3. Place your chicken pieces on top of the veggies.
4. Sprinkle the minced garlic over everything, and then pour the chicken broth over it.
5. Add your seasonings – salt, pepper, thyme, and bay leaves. Stir everything gently to combine but try not to disturb the chicken too much.
6. Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, depending on your schedule.
7. Once the chicken is tender and the vegetables are nice and soft, give everything a little stir. You’re ready to serve!
8. Dish out the stew into bowls, garnishing with some fresh herbs if you like, and enjoy!
A Hearty Helping of Tips!
– Feel free to switch it up! Add in any extras like peas, corn, or green beans to make this stew even heartier.
– If you like a thicker stew, you can combine 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with a little cold water and stir it in the last hour of cooking.
– Leftovers? This stew holds up beautifully in the fridge for a few days and can be easily reheated!
I can’t wait for you to give this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew a try! It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. Let me know how it turns out for you – I just know you’re going to love it!
