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Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
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Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is a cozy and nourishing meal that combines tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and rich flavors. This comforting stew is easy to prepare by tossing ingredients into a slow cooker, making it perfect for busy days or lazy weekends. Featuring wholesome ingredients and adaptable variations, it warms both body and soul while supporting your well-being.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • Chicken thighs or breasts (bone-in or boneless, about 2 pounds)

Vegetables

  • 3 carrots, chopped into bite-sized pieces
  • 3 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 4 medium potatoes, chopped into bite-sized pieces

Liquids & Seasonings

  • 4 cups chicken broth (homemade or gluten-free store-bought)
  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Chop the carrots, celery, onions, and potatoes into bite-sized pieces, and mince the garlic to ensure even distribution of flavor. Uniform cuts help the stew cook evenly and look appealing.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, carrots, and celery and sauté until fragrant and slightly tender. This builds a deeper flavor base before slow cooking.
  3. Layer Ingredients in the Slow Cooker: Place half of the sautéed vegetables at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the chicken pieces on top, then layer the potatoes, remaining vegetables, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Pour chicken broth over all ingredients, making sure they are mostly submerged for even cooking.
  4. Slow Cook Until Tender: Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The slow, low heat breaks down the chicken and vegetables into a tender, flavorful stew that melts in your mouth.
  5. Final Seasoning and Serve: Remove the bay leaves from the stew. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve warm with your favorite garnishes like fresh herbs or a splash of lemon juice, accompanied by sides such as crusty bread, salad, rice, or mashed potatoes.

Notes

  • Choose dark meat chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful stew.
  • Do not overfill the slow cooker; fill no more than two-thirds full to ensure proper cooking and prevent spills.
  • Layer root vegetables at the bottom and delicate ingredients on top to balance textures.
  • Season the stew near the end of cooking to prevent over-concentration of salt and spices.
  • For a thicker stew, mash a few potatoes inside or stir in cornstarch at the end.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker, chicken stew, comfort food, healthy stew, gluten free, easy dinner, slow cooked chicken, nourishing meal

Find it online: https://lillysplate.com/slow-cooker-chicken-stew/