Go Back
slow-cooker-chicken-stew-recipe_feature

Ultimate Slow Cooker Chicken Stew: Easy Hearty Comfort Food Recipe

This ultimate comfort food recipe transforms simple ingredients into a nourishing meal that fills your home with incredible aromas while requiring minimal hands-on time. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or cozy family dinners, this stew delivers rich flavors and tender chicken that falls apart with each spoonful.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 7 hours
Total Time 7 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 380
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 3 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 medium potatoes, cubed
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 3 tbsp water (for thickening)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Prepare the vegetables by washing, peeling, and chopping the carrots, celery, onion, and potatoes. Mince the garlic and set aside.
  2. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
  3. Place the seared chicken at the bottom of your slow cooker. Add the chopped vegetables, garlic, tomato paste, thyme, and bay leaves around the chicken.
  4. Pour the chicken broth over everything, ensuring the ingredients are mostly submerged. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
  5. About 30 minutes before serving, remove the chicken and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
  6. Add the frozen peas and the cornstarch slurry. Stir well to combine and continue cooking for the remaining 30 minutes until the stew has thickened.
  7. Remove bay leaves, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice.

Notes

Choose chicken thighs for best results as they remain moist and tender. Don't skip searing the chicken as it adds richer flavor. Layer denser vegetables at the bottom for even cooking. Thicken with cornstarch slurry in the final 30 minutes to prevent over-thickening.