Slow Cooker Chicken and Vegetable Stew

This Slow Cooker Chicken and Vegetable Stew recipe is a perfect comfort food for fall nights when you crave something warm and hearty. It’s incredibly easy to make – all you need is a slow cooker and some basic ingredients including chicken, vegetables, and broth. It’s popular because it’s not only delicious but also healthy and customizable since you can add in any vegetables you have on hand. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal that requires minimal effort and clean-up. Don’t hesitate to try making this recipe and enjoy a cozy night in with a bowl of flavorful stew that will warm you up from the inside out.

Here is why you might love this Slow Cooker Chicken and Vegetable Stew Recipe

1. Easy to make: This recipe is perfect for busy people because it requires minimal preparation and can be left to cook in a slow cooker.

2. Healthy and satisfying: Packed with nutritious vegetables and lean protein, this stew will leave you feeling full and satisfied without weighing you down.

3. Versatile: This recipe can be easily adapted to your tastes by using your favorite seasonal vegetables, spices, and herbs. Plus, leftovers can be repurposed as a tasty lunch or snack the next day.

Slow Cooker Chicken and Vegetable Stew Recipe

Slow Cooker Chicken and Vegetable Stew is the perfect hearty and healthy meal for those who want a warm, filling dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. With tender chicken, an array of colorful veggies, and flavorful seasonings, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that will be devoured in no time.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 15 minutes
Course Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine American
Servings4 servings
Calories (per serving)295.45 kcal

Ingredients

Instructions
 

  • Cut 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs into bite-sized pieces.
  • Chop 3 cups of vegetables (carrots, celery, onion, potatoes, etc.).
  • In a slow cooker, add the diced chicken, vegetables, 1 can of diced tomatoes, 2 cups of chicken broth, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1 tsp dried rosemary, 1 tsp paprika, salt and pepper to taste, 2 cloves of minced garlic, and 2 bay leaves.
  • Stir to combine and cover the slow cooker with a lid.
  • Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup all-purpose flour with 1/4 cup water to create a slurry.
  • Stir the slurry into the slow cooker and cook on high for an additional 20-30 minutes to thicken the stew.
  • Discard bay leaves and serve the stew garnished with fresh chopped parsley (optional).

Notes

1. Start by preparing all the vegetables - cut them into small chunks or dice them to ensure that they cook evenly.
2. Brown the chicken first in a pan before adding it to the slow cooker. This will add extra flavor and texture to the stew.
3. Choose bone-in chicken pieces to add depth to the broth.
4. Layer the vegetables at the bottom of the slow cooker, then place the chicken on top.
5. Add your favorite herbs and spices such as thyme, bay leaves, garlic, onion powder or smoked paprika to enhance the flavors of the stew.
6. Add enough liquid such as chicken or vegetable broth to cover the chicken and vegetables completely.
7. Cook the stew on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours. Avoid opening the lid during cooking as it will release heat and moisture.
8. Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it with a fork before adding it back to the stew. This will help distribute the chicken evenly throughout the dish.
9. Serve the stew hot, topped with fresh herbs, such as parsley, and a side of crusty bread.
10. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 295.45kcalCarbohydrates: 33.09gProtein: 33.2gFat: 4.78gSaturated Fat: 1.08gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1.09gMonounsaturated Fat: 1.29gTrans Fat: 0.01gCholesterol: 72.58mgSodium: 535.62mgPotassium: 1072.04mgFiber: 7.79gSugar: 2.64gVitamin A: 7477.65IUVitamin B1: 0.36mgVitamin B2: 0.37mgVitamin B3: 16.49mgVitamin B5: 2.06mgVitamin B6: 1.16mgVitamin B12: 0.35µgVitamin C: 26.19mgVitamin D: 0.11µgVitamin E: 1.1mgVitamin K: 16.46µgCalcium: 100.86mgCopper: 0.35mgFolate: 69.14µgIron: 4.08mgManganese: 0.91mgMagnesium: 83.67mgPhosphorus: 393.24mgSelenium: 40.13µgZinc: 1.7mgNet Carbohydrates: 25.31g
Read more nutritional information values.

Data source: USDA

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Main Ingredients Explained

Ingredients Description Alternatives
Chicken Protein-rich meat that adds flavor and texture to the stew. Beef, pork, tofu, or any plant-based protein
Vegetables Provides essential vitamins and minerals and adds color and flavor to the dish. Carrots, celery, sweet potatoes, potatoes, onions, mushrooms, and squash, etc.
Broth or Stock Provides the liquid base for the stew and enhances its flavor. Vegetable broth, water or any other broth or stock of your choice.

Storage Tips

If you want to freeze the stew, let it cool down to room temperature and transfer it to a freezer-safe container or a plastic bag. You can store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

To defrost, put the container in the refrigerator overnight or defrost it quickly in the microwave. When reheating, make sure to heat it thoroughly until it reaches the desired temperature.

Always check whether the stew smells and looks fresh before consuming it, and discard it if it shows any signs of spoilage.

Recipe Variations

1. Beef Stew: Instead of chicken, use beef stew meat and replace the chicken broth with beef broth. You can add potatoes, carrots, onions, and celery to make a hearty and delicious beef stew.

2. Vegetarian Stew: Omit chicken and replace chicken broth with vegetable broth. Add vegetables of your choice such as mushrooms, green beans, chickpeas, and spinach to create a meatless and nutritious stew.

3. Sweet Potato and Chicken Stew: Add cubed sweet potatoes to the slow cooker with the chicken, broth, and vegetables. The sweetness of the potatoes pairs perfectly with savory chicken and vegetables.

4. Curry Chicken Stew: Add curry powder or paste, chopped tomatoes, and coconut milk to the slow cooker with the chicken and vegetables for a flavorful and aromatic stew.

5. Mexican Chicken Stew: Replace chicken broth with tomato sauce, add diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, and black beans to the slow cooker for a delicious and spicy Mexican-inspired stew.

6. Italian Chicken Stew: Use diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and garlic instead of chicken broth to infuse the stew with Italian flavors. Add zucchini and bell peppers as well, to create a colorful and veggie-packed dish.

What To Serve With

– Crusty bread or dinner rolls to dip into the savory broth
– Steamed rice or mashed potatoes to serve the stew over
– Side salad or roasted vegetables for extra texture and nutrition
– Grated Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for garnish
– A glass of red wine or a non-alcoholic beverage of choice to complement the flavors.

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