Name: Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 480 min
Total time: 495 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 4 pieces carrots, sliced; 3 pieces potatoes, diced; 1 piece onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup frozen peas; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Jump to Recipe

Imagine walking into your kitchen after a long day to the comforting aroma of a rich, hearty stew, bubbling away and begging to be enjoyed. That’s what makes this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew such a family favorite. With its tender chicken, colorful veggies, and savory broth, it’s the definition of cozy comfort food. Did you know that slow cookers, or “crockpots,” became popular in the 1970s as a way for families to enjoy home-cooked meals with minimal effort? That’s right—this homestyle classic stands the test of time.

What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity and convenience, along with flavors that warm not just your body, but your soul. It’s the kind of dish that lets you toss everything in and come back hours later to a meal that tastes like you’ve been slaving over the stove. If you loved our Creamy Chicken and Rice Bake, you’re going to adore this stew! Gather your favorite bread and get ready for a meal that will have your family asking for seconds.

What is Slow Cooker Chicken Stew?

Ever wondered what’s behind the name “Slow Cooker Chicken Stew”? Let’s break it down—this dish is exactly what it sounds like: tender chunks of chicken slowly simmered to perfection with wholesome veggies and aromatic herbs. Why the “stew”? Because everything bubbles together in a broth until it’s all thick, hearty, and irresistible! Some might say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and I couldn’t agree more. This recipe might have been designed by busy parents who wanted a big hug in a bowl after a long day. So what are you waiting for? Dive into this delicious, no-fuss stew that’s sure to make dinnertime your favorite hour!

Why You’ll Love This

This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew shines for three big reasons. First, its irresistible highlight: juicy chicken thighs, sweet carrots, creamy potatoes, and vibrant peas all melt together in a richly flavored broth—every spoonful is a comfort-food delight. Second, it’s a budget-friendly wonder. Instead of expensive takeout or pre-made soups, you’re using simple, wholesome ingredients for a meal that can stretch to feed the whole family (with leftovers!). Finally, the herbs, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce give this stew a tangy depth, elevating it well above everyday soups. If you’re already a fan of my Slow Cooker Beef Pot Roast, you’ll love how this stew captures the same easy prep and robust taste—only with tender chicken. Don’t just take my word for it—try it yourself and enjoy a comforting meal that’s big on flavor and low on fuss.

How to Make

Quick Overview

Ready for comfort food made easy? This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it recipe. With just a few minutes of chopping and prepping, you’ll have everything in the pot and can let the slow cooker do the heavy lifting. The end result is a thick, satisfying stew filled with tender chicken and veggies—no creamy shortcuts needed, just wholesome ingredients coming together in under 15 minutes of hands-on time. Total cooking time is 6 to 8 hours—perfect for busy weekdays or when you want your house to smell amazing.

Bowl of slow cooker chicken stew with carrots, potatoes, peas, and fresh parsley

Ingredients

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs

4 carrots, sliced

3 potatoes, diced

1 onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

4 cups chicken broth

1 cup frozen peas

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried rosemary

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step

Start by prepping your vegetables: peel and slice the carrots, dice the potatoes, and chop the onion. Mince the garlic.
Place the chicken thighs (whole or cut into large pieces if preferred) in the bottom of the slow cooker.
Add the carrots, potatoes, onion, and garlic on top of the chicken.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
Pour the broth mixture evenly over the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker.
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken and vegetables are tender.
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the frozen peas. Allow the stew to continue simmering so the peas cook through.
Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper as needed.
Ladle the stew into bowls and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Enjoy your comforting homemade chicken stew!

What to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Stew With

To make this meal even more satisfying, pair your Slow Cooker Chicken Stew with a crusty loaf of sourdough bread or flaky biscuits to soak up all that delicious broth. A simple side salad with a bright vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the stew’s richness. Want something extra cozy? Serve it with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or buttered noodles for the ultimate in comfort. For drinks, a glass of chilled apple cider or an easy herbal tea rounds out this classic, home-cooked meal.

Top Tips for Perfecting

Want to make your chicken stew shine? Here’s how:

For a thicker stew, add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
No chicken thighs? Substitute with boneless, skinless chicken breasts, or use a combination for even more flavor.
Out of fresh herbs? Dried ones work perfectly, but remember to use half the quantity if swapping fresh for dried.
Avoid blandness: season generously, but taste before adding extra salt at the end.
For a veggie twist, substitute sweet potatoes for regular ones or toss in other favorites like green beans or mushrooms.

Slow cookers can vary, so always check for doneness before serving. Resist the urge to lift the lid too often, as this can extend the cooking time.

Storing and Reheating Tips

To store leftover stew, let it cool to room temperature first. Place in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the stew in portioned containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply microwave individual servings for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, or warm gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. For best texture, add a splash of broth or water when reheating to bring the stew back to its original consistency.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work well—just keep in mind they cook a little faster and can be less juicy than thighs.

Can I add other vegetables?
Yes! Green beans, mushrooms, parsnips, or even corn can be added. Just toss them in at the start or, for quick-cooking veggies, in the last 30 minutes.

Do I need to brown the chicken first?
You don’t have to, but searing the chicken beforehand adds extra depth of flavor. If you have a few extra minutes, it’s worth it!

How do I make this stew gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you check that your Worcestershire sauce and broth are labeled gluten-free.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Definitely! This stew tastes even better the next day, as the flavors deepen when it sits overnight in the fridge.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Chicken Stew isn’t just a recipe—it’s a comforting, flavorful experience waiting to happen at your dinner table. With minimal prep, everyday ingredients, and a hands-off cooking process, you’ll end up with a hearty meal that everyone will love. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you’re simply in need of some good old-fashioned comfort food, this stew truly delivers. Don’t forget to try some of the tips and serving suggestions to make it your own, and check out our other easy slow cooker favorites for more mealtime inspiration. Now, grab your slow cooker and make tonight’s dinner one to remember!