Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

This slow cooker chicken stew recipe is the ultimate cozy meal, filled with tender chicken thighs, potatoes, carrots, and a creamy, flavorful broth. Perfect for busy days, this easy chicken stew is made with a blend of herbs like thyme and rosemary, simmered low and slow to develop rich flavors. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this healthy, hearty stew is ideal for family dinners, meal prep, or chilly nights. Enjoy a warm bowl of slow-cooked goodness with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete comfort food experience!

Table of Contents

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1½ pounds chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
½ teaspoon salt, plus extra for seasoning
6 cloves garlic, minced
1 onion, diced
3 carrots, peeled and sliced
2 large potatoes, cut into ½-inch cubes (about 1 pound)
3 cups chicken broth
1 bay leaf
½ cup milk
1 cup frozen green peas
Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Dice the chicken thighs into 1-inch pieces, then season generously with salt and black pepper.
Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and sear for 4-5 minutes until browned on all sides (the chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked). Note: If your slow cooker has a stovetop-safe insert, you can use it directly on the stovetop for this step.
Transfer and Coat: Place the seared chicken in the slow cooker. Sprinkle with flour, thyme, rosemary, and ½ teaspoon of salt, then stir to evenly coat the chicken.
Add Vegetables and Broth: Add the minced garlic, diced onion, carrots, and potato cubes to the slow cooker. Stir to combine, then pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaf.
Cook: Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors are well blended.
Finish with Peas and Milk: About 10-15 minutes before serving, add the frozen peas and milk. Stir well and continue cooking on high until the peas are heated through. If the stew is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth. If it’s too thin, sprinkle in a bit more flour.
Season and Serve: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished as desired.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cozy slow cooker chicken stew is a hearty, flavorful one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy days or when you want a warm, comforting dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s packed with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a rich, creamy broth that makes every spoonful satisfying.

Tips

Searing the Chicken: Don’t skip this step—it adds depth of flavor and locks in the juices, giving the stew a richer taste.
Thickening Options: For a thicker stew, mix 1 tablespoon of flour with a bit of water and stir it into the stew about 30 minutes before it’s finished.
Add Herbs and Seasonings Last: Fresh herbs can be stirred in at the end for a more vibrant taste.

Variations and Substitutions

Chicken Breasts: Substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts if preferred; just adjust cooking time to avoid drying out.
Herbs: Use fresh thyme and rosemary for an even stronger herb flavor, or add a touch of sage for extra warmth.
Vegetables: Feel free to add celery, parsnips, or mushrooms to the stew for added flavor and texture.

FAQs

Can I make this stew dairy-free?
Yes! Simply replace the milk with coconut milk or almond milk for a dairy-free version.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this chicken stew with a side of crusty bread, garlic toast, or over rice for a heartier meal. It’s also delicious with a side of fresh salad or steamed green beans for added color and nutrition. Enjoy the flavors of this comforting classic any time of year!