Slow-Cooker Homey Chicken Stew

This delicious chicken stew is packed with tender vegetables, juicy chicken, and a flavorful broth that will warm you up from the inside out. It’s a simple, nourishing dish that tastes like it’s been simmering all day.

Ingredients

(Serves 6–8)

• 1 ½ pounds (700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 4 medium potatoes, diced
• 3 medium carrots, sliced into rounds
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup (120g) frozen peas (added at the end)
• 4 cups (960ml) chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream or milk (optional, for a creamy stew)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for searing chicken)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Wash and chop the vegetables (potatoes, carrots, celery, and onion) into even-sized pieces to ensure they cook uniformly.
2. Cut the chicken into bite-sized chunks and season with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Optional – Sear the Chicken

1. For extra flavor, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Sear the chicken pieces until lightly browned on all sides, about 3–4 minutes. This step is optional but adds depth to the stew.

Step 3: Assemble in the Slow Cooker

1. Place the potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic in the slow cooker.
2. Layer the chicken on top of the vegetables.
3. Add the chicken broth, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir gently to combine.

Step 4: Cook the Stew

1. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low heat for 6–8 hours or high heat for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and the vegetables are soft.

Step 5: Add Final Ingredients

1. About 30 minutes before the stew is done, stir in the frozen peas.
2. If you prefer a creamy stew, stir in the heavy cream or milk at this stage. Let it heat through for the remaining cooking time.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
2. Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of black pepper. Serve with crusty bread or warm biscuits for a complete meal.

Pro Tips

• Thickening the Stew: If you prefer a thicker consistency, mash some of the potatoes directly in the slow cooker, or mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with water and stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Vegetable Variations: Add parsnips, sweet potatoes, or green beans for extra flavor and variety.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This stew also freezes well for up to 3 months.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless: Let your slow cooker do all the work while you enjoy your day.
• Comforting: The warm, hearty flavors make it perfect for chilly nights or busy weekdays.
• Customizable: Easy to adapt with your favorite vegetables or seasonings.

This Slow-Cooker Homey Chicken Stew is a dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s comforting, nourishing, and so easy to prepare. Let me know if you’d like suggestions for more variations or sides! 🍲🐔✨