The Ultimate Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe for Cozy Nights

Have you ever craved a hearty slow cooker chicken stew that promises comfort without hours of kitchen labor?

Cozy meals often emerge from simple ingredients simmering together with minimal effort.

Weeknight dinners demand smart solutions, and this recipe delivers maximum flavor through minimal preparation.

Kitchen magic happens when tender chicken, robust vegetables, and rich seasonings blend seamlessly in a slow cooker.

No complicated techniques stand between you and a delicious meal that practically prepares itself.

Fragrant herbs and carefully selected spices will elevate every spoonful into a memorable dining experience.

One taste, and you’ll understand why this stew becomes an instant household favorite.

What You Need For Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

• Chicken Pieces: Tender meat that forms the hearty base of this comforting stew.

• Carrots, Onion, Potatoes: Fresh vegetables that add nutrition, texture, and rich flavor to the stew.
• Garlic: Aromatic ingredient that provides depth and warmth to the overall dish.

• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the chicken and vegetables.
• Oregano, Rosemary, Bay Leaf: Fragrant herbs that contribute complex and traditional stew flavors.
• Olive Oil: Used for browning the chicken and adding a subtle richness.
• Coconut Aminos: Provides a savory and slightly sweet undertone to the stew.
• Chicken Broth, Almond Milk: Liquid base that creates a creamy and flavorful cooking medium.
• Cornstarch or Arrowroot: Thickening agent that helps create a rich and smooth stew consistency.

How To Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Effortlessly

Step 1: Sizzle and Brown the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium flame. Generously season chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Sear the chicken for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown. Transfer the beautifully browned chicken to the slow cooker.

Step 2: Load Up the Vegetables

• Chopped carrots
• Diced onions
• Minced garlic
• Chunky potato pieces

Step 3: Pour in the Flavor Boosters

• Coconut aminos
• Salt
• Dried oregano
• Fresh rosemary
• Bay leaf
• Chicken broth
• Almond milk

Step 4: Long and Slow Cooking

Cover the slow cooker and let it work its magic. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until chicken becomes tender and vegetables are soft.

Step 5: Thicken the Stew

Create a quick slurry by mixing cornstarch (or arrowroot) with cold water in a small bowl. Stir this mixture into the stew during the final 30 minutes of cooking to create a rich, creamy texture.

Step 6: Final Touches

Remove the bay leaf. Taste the stew and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper as needed.

Step 7: Serve and Savor

Ladle the steaming stew into bowls and enjoy the comforting, hearty meal straight from your slow cooker.

Helpful Tips For Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Success

• Perfectly brown chicken pieces before adding to slow cooker for deeper flavor development and enhanced meat texture.
• Use fresh herbs like rosemary and oregano instead of dried for more vibrant, aromatic results and brighter taste profile.
• Create a smooth cornstarch slurry by whisking cold water thoroughly to prevent lumps and ensure consistent stew thickness.
• Select bone-in chicken thighs for richer, more tender meat that remains juicy during extended slow cooking process.
• Choose low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels and allow for personalized seasoning adjustment at the end of cooking.

Different Styles Of Slow Cooker Chicken Stew To Try

• Spicy Southwest Chicken Stew: Replace oregano and rosemary with chili powder, cumin, and add diced green chiles for a zesty southwestern flavor profile.
• Mediterranean Herb Chicken Stew: Incorporate fresh basil, thyme, and sun-dried tomatoes, swap coconut aminos for white wine to create a Mediterranean-inspired version.
• Coconut Curry Chicken Stew: Add curry powder, garam masala, and replace almond milk with full-fat coconut milk for an Indian-inspired rich and creamy stew.
• Rustic Root Vegetable Chicken Stew: Include parsnips, turnips, and celery root alongside potatoes to create a heartier, more robust vegetable blend with deeper earthy notes.

Best Pairings With Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

• Pair with Crisp White Wine: Select a light, refreshing Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio that complements the stew's delicate herbal notes and cuts through its creamy texture.
• Rustic Bread Sidekick: Choose a crusty sourdough or herbed focaccia to soak up the rich, flavorful broth and add a delightful textural contrast to the tender chicken and vegetables.
• Zesty Green Salad Companion: Toss together a bright arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette and shaved parmesan to provide a fresh, tangy counterpoint to the hearty stew's warmth.

How To Store Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Properly

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, ensuring the stew stays fresh and safe to eat.
• Transfer cooled stew to freezer-safe containers or freezer bags. Remove excess air, seal tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.
• Place stew in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes. Stir halfway through to distribute heat evenly and prevent cold spots.
• Pour stew into a saucepan, add a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying, and warm over medium-low heat.

Your Questions On Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

• Why brown the chicken before putting it in the slow cooker?

Browning the chicken creates a deeper flavor and helps seal in the meat’s natural juices, giving the stew a richer taste and more appealing color.

• Can I use different herbs if I don't have oregano or rosemary?

Yes, you can substitute with dried thyme, sage, or Italian seasoning blend to maintain a similar flavor profile.

• Is cornstarch necessary for thickening the stew?

The cornstarch slurry helps create a slightly thicker, more velvety texture, but you can skip it if you prefer a thinner broth. The stew will still be delicious and flavorful.

Why Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Is So Comforting

• Simplify Meal Prep: Brown chicken quickly in a skillet, then transfer to slow cooker with minimal chopping, making dinner preparation a breeze for busy home cooks.
• Customize for All Diets: Versatile recipe accommodates different dietary needs by using coconut aminos instead of traditional sauces and offering gluten-free thickening options like arrowroot.
• Hands-Off Cooking Magic: Slow cooker does all the hard work, allowing you to set it and forget it while tender chicken and vegetables develop rich, comforting flavors throughout the day.
• Nutrient-Packed One-Pot Wonder: Combines protein-rich chicken with hearty vegetables in a single pot, delivering a balanced meal that's both satisfying and nutritionally complete.

Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 35 reviews

• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 7 hours 15 minutes (low) or 3 hours 15 minutes to 4 hours 15 minutes (high)
• Yield: 4 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Hearty Provençal chicken stew delivers rustic French countryside comfort straight to kitchen tables. Aromatic herbs and tender chicken meld together, promising a warm, satisfying meal you’ll savor with each spoonful.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1/2-inch pieces

Vegetables:

• 3 carrots, chopped
• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 5 cloves garlic, chopped
• 2 russet potatoes, peeled and diced

Seasonings and Liquids:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons coconut aminos
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 teaspoon oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon rosemary
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup almond milk (or milk of choice)
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (or arrowroot)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Prepare chicken by seasoning with salt and pepper, then sear in hot olive oil over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until golden brown, creating a rich flavor foundation.
2. Transfer browned chicken pieces directly into the slow cooker, ensuring even distribution.
3. Layer chopped carrots, diced onions, minced garlic, and cubed potatoes around the chicken, creating a colorful vegetable base.
4. Pour coconut aminos, chicken broth, and almond milk over the ingredients, then sprinkle oregano, rosemary, and add a bay leaf for aromatic depth.
5. Secure the slow cooker lid and allow the stew to simmer on low temperature for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, letting flavors meld and chicken become tender.
6. During the final 30 minutes of cooking, create a cornstarch slurry by whisking cornstarch with cold water until smooth, then gently stir into the stew to naturally thicken the broth.
7. Remove bay leaf and taste the stew, adjusting seasoning with additional salt or pepper to enhance the overall flavor profile.
8. Ladle the steaming, hearty stew into bowls and serve immediately for maximum enjoyment.

Notes

• Perfectly brown chicken by patting it dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy, golden exterior that locks in flavor.
• Swap chicken for plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh to create a vegan-friendly version of this comforting stew.
• Use gluten-free cornstarch or arrowroot powder to thicken the stew, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Customize the herb blend by experimenting with fresh thyme or parsley to add a bright, fresh dimension to the slow-cooked dish.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-7 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 280 kcal
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 650 mg
• Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 18 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 28 g
• Cholesterol: 85 mg