Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe is like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket after a long, hectic day. If your schedule looks anything like mine — school drop-offs, work, errands, and a house that somehow always needs cleaning — this recipe will be your new best friend. You just toss everything into your slow cooker in the morning, go about your day, and come home to a kitchen that smells like pure comfort.
This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe is hearty, full of tender chicken, soft potatoes, and vegetables simmered in a savory, soul-soothing broth. It’s perfect for chilly nights, picky eaters, and anyone craving something homemade without the hassle. Plus, cleanup? Practically nonexistent. That’s a win in my book.
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What is Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe?
At its heart, this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe is a “set it and forget it” kind of meal — a true lifesaver for busy days. It’s a cozy, classic stew loaded with chunks of chicken, potatoes, carrots, celery, and herbs that meld together while slowly cooking for hours. The result? A rich, flavorful broth that tastes like it’s been simmering on Grandma’s stove all day.
Think of it as comfort food made smart. You don’t have to hover over the stove or stress about timing. Whether you’re using boneless chicken breasts or juicy thighs, the slow cooker does all the work for you. Add a side of crusty bread, and dinner basically serves itself.
Reasons to Try Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe
There are a few reasons this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe deserves a spot in your weekly rotation:
- It’s effortless: You can prep everything in about 15 minutes, then walk away. Seriously.
- It’s family-friendly: Even your pickiest eater will ask for seconds.
- It’s healthy comfort food: Packed with protein, veggies, and a light, flavorful broth that warms you from the inside out.
- It’s budget-friendly: Simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
- It’s freezer-friendly: Make extra and save for a rainy day — literally.
If you love easy, nourishing comfort foods, you’ll also want to check out my Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup and Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice Soup. Both are cozy cousins of this stew, perfect for cold weather dinners.
Ingredients Needed to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juice
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for browning chicken)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe
Cooking this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe is as easy as it is comforting. Below, you’ll find a clear step-by-step guide that walks you through every detail — from prepping your veggies to serving that final steaming bowl of goodness. Each step is designed to make this process smooth, delicious, and foolproof. Let’s get started.
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients Like a Pro
Before the magic begins, you’ll want to set yourself up for success. Wash and peel your potatoes and carrots, then cut the potatoes into bite-sized cubes and slice the carrots into even rounds. Chop the celery and onion finely — this helps them soften beautifully while cooking.
Mince your garlic to release its aromatic oils (this step makes all the difference in flavor). Finally, cut your chicken into bite-sized chunks so they cook evenly and tenderize perfectly in the stew.
If you need more detailed vegetable prep ideas or want to learn how to chop faster without tears (thanks, onions), check out my kitchen prep tips and tricks. It’ll save you time and keep dinner stress-free.
Step 2: Optional but Worth It — Brown the Chicken
This part is optional, but if you’ve got a few minutes, take it. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and brown the chicken for 2–3 minutes on each side. You’re not fully cooking it here — just adding that golden sear that locks in flavor.
That little bit of browning gives your Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe a deep, savory undertone that feels like something straight out of Grandma’s kitchen. But hey, if you’re running late, no worries — you can toss the raw chicken straight into the slow cooker, and it’ll still come out tender and delicious.
For another comforting meal that benefits from browning, try my Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice Soup. It’s another easy, hands-off dinner with big flavor payoff.
Step 3: Assemble Your Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Here’s where the real fun starts. Layer your chopped veggies — potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic — at the bottom of your slow cooker. This helps them cook evenly and absorb all that amazing broth flavor.
Next, pour in the can of diced tomatoes (juice and all) to add a tangy touch that balances the richness. Then place your chicken pieces on top of the veggies.
Pour in the chicken broth, making sure everything is covered. Sprinkle in your thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper, then drop in the bay leaf for that classic slow-simmered aroma.
Give everything a gentle stir to mix the seasonings through.
Want to know how herbs transform a dish like this? My post on using fresh vs. dried herbs in cooking is a must-read for anyone curious about maximizing flavor the simple way.
Step 4: Cook Slow and Steady
Now it’s time to let your slow cooker do the heavy lifting. Cover it and set to Low for 6–8 hours or High for 3–4 hours, depending on your schedule.
Cooking on Low is ideal for that melt-in-your-mouth texture — the kind that makes every spoonful feel like a hug. The vegetables become tender, the chicken soaks up every bit of flavor, and the broth turns rich and golden.
Try not to lift the lid too often (I know, the smell is hard to resist!). Every peek releases steam and slows down the cooking process.
For a similar cozy, slow-cooked meal, check out my Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup. It’s got that same “set-it-and-forget-it” magic with a fun Tex-Mex twist.
Step 5: Thicken the Stew (Optional but Amazing)
If you like your stew hearty and thick, this Step by Step trick will do the job. About 30 minutes before your stew is done, whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to make a smooth slurry. Stir it into the slow cooker, then leave the lid slightly ajar to let a bit of steam escape.
This helps the broth thicken up beautifully into a rich, velvety texture that clings to every bite. If you prefer a lighter consistency, you can skip this part — your Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe will still taste fantastic.
For other thickening ideas or healthy swaps, visit my guide on making creamy soups without heavy cream. It’s a game-changer if you love velvety dishes with a lighter touch.
Step 6: Taste, Adjust, and Finish Strong
When the cooking time is up, remove the bay leaf and give your stew a good stir. Taste the broth — if it needs a pinch more salt, pepper, or herbs, now’s your time to tweak.
Ladle your stew into bowls and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot with a slice of crusty bread, a bowl of rice, or even over mashed potatoes.
This final Step by Step moment is where all your patience pays off — that first bite of tender chicken, perfectly cooked veggies, and savory broth is pure comfort.
If you love classic comfort food that’s both wholesome and easy, try my Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup. It’s another warm and filling dish that hits all the right notes for cozy family dinners.
Step 7: Enjoy (and Maybe Freeze Some for Later)
Congratulations — you’ve just made a hearty, homemade Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe without breaking a sweat!
Serve it up right away, or let it cool and store it for busy weeknights when you need something nourishing in a pinch. It freezes beautifully, so make extra if you’ve got a big slow cooker.
Pro tip: Pair leftovers with a side salad or roasted veggies for a balanced, easy next-day meal.
And if you’re building your slow cooker recipe collection, don’t miss my Slow Cooker Thai Curried Chicken Soup — it’s vibrant, flavorful, and just as effortless.
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe
This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe is hearty enough on its own, but if you want to turn dinner into a full feast, here are a few perfect pairings:
- Crusty bread or garlic rolls: For dipping into that rich broth.
- Fluffy white rice or mashed potatoes: Ideal for soaking up every drop.
- Side salad: Try a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the stew’s warmth.
- Roasted veggies: Think broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or green beans for extra color and nutrition.
If you love soups and stews, you’ll also enjoy my Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup — it’s bold, zesty, and every bit as easy.
Key Tips for Making Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe
- Don’t skip seasoning early: Herbs like thyme and rosemary bloom beautifully when cooked for hours.
- Cut veggies evenly: This keeps them from over- or undercooking.
- For creaminess: Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or coconut milk near the end.
- Add greens last: If using peas, spinach, or green beans, toss them in during the last 30 minutes.
- Make it ahead: It tastes even better the next day as the flavors mingle.
For extra slow-cooker inspiration, visit my Slow Cooker Thai Curried Chicken Soup for a flavorful twist on weekday meals.
Storage and Reheating Tips for Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe
- To store: Let it cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- To freeze: Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- To reheat: Warm on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave in 1-minute intervals. Add a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
For food safety and reheating temperature guidelines, you can check out USDA’s official recommendations.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Thighs stay juicy and tender even after long cooking.
Can I make this on the stovetop?
Yes — just simmer everything in a large pot for about an hour until tender.
What if my stew is too thin?
Add the cornstarch slurry or let it simmer uncovered for a bit.
Can I make it creamy?
Sure! Stir in some cream or even a dollop of Greek yogurt at the end.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe is what I like to call a “busy day hero.” It’s simple, satisfying, and makes your house smell like you’ve been cooking all day — even if you’ve been juggling work, kids, and life’s chaos.
Next time you’re craving something warm and homemade but don’t want the fuss, grab your slow cooker and make this cozy, hearty stew. You’ll be grateful you did.
Follow us on Pinterest for weekly slow cooker inspiration, or join the conversation over on our Facebook page where fellow food lovers share their favorite comfort meal
Print
Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 hours
- Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 5 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and comforting Slow Cooker Chicken Stew, packed with tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and a rich, savory broth. Perfect for busy days, this set-it-and-forget-it meal is both satisfying and easy to make.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 cups (960ml) chicken broth, low sodium preferred
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced into rounds
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juice
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt, adjust to taste
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for browning the chicken)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Wash and peel the potatoes and carrots. Cut the potatoes into cubes and slice the carrots. Chop the celery and onion. Mince the garlic. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
2. (Optional) Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the chicken for 2-3 minutes until lightly golden on all sides. Set aside.
3. Place potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic in the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the diced tomatoes with juice. Layer the chicken over the vegetables. Pour in the chicken broth. Add thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, pepper, and bay leaf. Stir gently to combine.
4. Cover and cook on Low for 6-8 hours or on High for 3-4 hours until vegetables are tender and chicken is cooked through.
5. (Optional) For a thicker stew, mix cornstarch with water and stir into the stew 30 minutes before the end of cooking. Leave the lid slightly ajar and switch to High to thicken.
6. Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Notes
You can substitute the chicken with turkey or beef for variation.
Add quick-cooking vegetables like peas or green beans in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
For a creamier version, stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream during the final 30 minutes.
Serve with crusty bread, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
