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Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
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Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

A hearty and creamy chicken stew without the use of cream, this comforting slow cooker recipe is perfect for chilly days.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time7 hours
Total Time7 hours 15 minutes
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Servings: 4
Calories: 516kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 ½ 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 more to season
  • 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 season

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

  • Dice the chicken thighs into 1-inch pieces and season generously with salt and pepper.

Sear the Chicken (Optional but recommended for extra flavor)

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add the chicken pieces and sear for 4-5 minutes, until browned on all sides. (No need to cook the chicken through—just sear to lock in the juices.)
  • If your slow cooker has a stovetop-safe pot, you can sear the chicken directly in it before returning it to the slow-cooker base.

Assemble the Stew in the Slow Cooker

  • Transfer the seared chicken to the slow cooker.
  • Sprinkle with flour, thyme, rosemary, and ½ teaspoon salt. Stir to coat the chicken evenly in the flour and herbs.
  • Add the garlic, onion, carrots, and potatoes to the slow cooker and stir to combine.
  • Pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaf.

Slow Cook the Stew

  • Cover and cook on Low for 7-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.

Finish and Serve

  • Once the cooking time is complete, stir in the frozen peas and milk.
  • Cook on High for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the peas are warmed through.
  • If the stew is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth. If too thin, whisk in a little extra flour to thicken.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
  • Serve immediately and enjoy!

Storage and Freezing

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Notes

Chicken Swap: You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts if preferred.
Extra Flavor: Sauté the garlic and onion in the skillet before adding them to the slow cooker.
Serving Suggestions: This stew pairs beautifully with crusty bread or served over cooked rice for a more filling meal.