If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that practically makes itself while you go about your day, this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender chicken chunks simmered alongside vibrant carrots, creamy Yukon gold potatoes, and crisp celery, all infused with a symphony of herbs and spices that warm you from the inside out. This stew’s rich, velvety broth thickens just right to cradle every bite, making it a soul-satisfying dish perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows raw cooking ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface: a glass measuring cup filled with brown broth and a smaller glass measuring cup with white cream are at the top left; next to them are many small yellow potatoes spread out. Below the potatoes, a single brown onion and a small white bowl filled with green peas are placed side by side. To the right of the onion are two small white bowls, one with dark soy sauce and the other with red pepper paste. Next to them, three orange carrots lie next to several green celery stalks. On a white tray at the top right are four raw chicken pieces with light pink color. At the bottom left, a small white bowl contains a white powder (likely flour), and near it, a white plate with four dry spices arranged in sections, including black pepper, rosemary, cumin, and salt. Lastly, two small white bowls hold minced garlic and two bay leaves. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this recipe is simple but essential, working together to build layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the fresh veggies that bring sweetness and crunch to the thoughtfully chosen herbs that add just the right aromatic touch, these components make the Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe come alive in the most delicious way.

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Choose fresh chicken trimmed of excess fat and cut into 1-inch chunks for even cooking and tenderness.
1 ½ cups yellow onion (diced): Adds a subtle sweetness that deepens the stew’s overall flavor.
5 carrots (cut into bite sized pieces): Brings vibrant color and a touch of natural sweetness.
1 pound baby Yukon gold potatoes: Their creamy texture makes the stew incredibly comforting and filling.
3 celery sticks (chopped): Provides a fresh, crisp contrast to the softer ingredients.
3 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Acts as a flavorful liquid base without overwhelming saltiness.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Enhances depth and adds a mild tangy note.
½ tablespoon tomato paste: Boosts richness and color in the broth.
4 teaspoons garlic (minced): Infuses the stew with fragrant warmth and a touch of sharpness.
1 teaspoon poultry seasoning: Blends herbs that perfectly complement chicken without overpowering.
1 teaspoon black pepper: Adds gentle heat and seasoning balance.
1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all other flavors.
½ teaspoon dried rosemary: Offers piney, earthy notes that elevate the stew’s aroma.
½ teaspoon dried thyme: A classic herb that amplifies the stew’s savory character.
2 bay leaves: Steep the broth with fragrant, slightly floral undertones.
½ cup milk: Creates a creamy base for thickening and softness in the stew.
¼ cup cornstarch: Whisked with milk to thicken the stew without altering the flavor.
1 ¼ cups frozen peas: Added near the end for pops of sweetness and bright green color.

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe

Step 1: Combine the Main Ingredients

Start by placing the chicken chunks, diced onions, chopped carrots, baby Yukon gold potatoes, and celery directly into your slow cooker. This mix provides a hearty base full of textures and flavors that will slowly meld as the stew cooks.

Step 2: Make the Flavorful Broth

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, minced garlic, poultry seasoning, black pepper, salt, dried rosemary, and thyme. This well-rounded mixture is the magic potion that infuses the stew with deep, irresistible flavor. Pour it evenly over the chicken and vegetables, then nestle the bay leaves on top for an extra aromatic touch.

Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 7 to 8 hours or on high for 4 to 5 hours. This slow, gentle cooking process allows the chicken to become incredibly tender and the vegetables to soften just right, all while the flavors fully develop and blend into a rich, comforting stew.

Step 4: Thicken the Stew

Once the cooking time is up, whisk together the milk and cornstarch in a small bowl until smooth and lump-free. Add this mixture along with the frozen peas into the slow cooker. Let everything cook for an additional 20 minutes; this step thickens the broth beautifully and warms the peas through, adding a fresh burst of color and subtle sweetness.

Step 5: Final Touches

Remove the bay leaves to avoid any bitter bits in your stew, stir thoroughly to meld all elements together, and get ready to savor one of the most satisfying versions of slow cooker chicken stew you’ve ever tasted.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe

The image shows a close-up of a bowl filled with thick chicken stew. The stew has several layers of chunky ingredients: orange carrot slices and green peas spread evenly, pale yellow potato pieces, light green celery chunks, and white chicken pieces all mixed in a light brown thick broth with visible specks of black pepper. A metal spoon is lifting a bite-sized serving of the stew, showing a carrot slice, a celery piece, and a chunk of chicken on it. The bowl is white with a very thin brown rim, set on a white marbled surface with another bowl of the same stew and bread rolls in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a dash of cracked black pepper on top not only adds a fresh pop of color but also elevates the flavor profile by introducing an aromatic touch right before serving. For an extra splash of richness, a swirl of cream or a pat of butter melted on top is simply divine.

Side Dishes

This stew stands beautifully on its own, but pairing it with crusty bread or warm dinner rolls invites you to soak up every last drop of that luscious broth. A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette can offer a refreshing contrast to the stew’s rich, cozy goodness without overpowering it.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe in rustic bread bowls or hollowed-out mini pumpkins for seasonal flair. It also makes a terrific pot pie filling when topped with flaky pastry dough and baked until golden, offering a wonderful change of texture and an eye-catching presentation perfect for special occasions.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your delicious stew, you can easily refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so next-day servings may taste even better as the herbs and spices continue to meld.

Freezing

If you want to keep the stew for longer, freezing is a great option. Portion the stew into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some room for expansion. It will keep well for up to 3 months, making it a perfect make-ahead meal on busy days.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw frozen stew overnight in the fridge, then warm gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If reheating from refrigerated leftovers, heat thoroughly until steaming. You may need to add a splash of broth or water if the stew thickens too much during storage.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs offer a juicier, more flavorful result, and they hold up well in slow cooking. Just cut them into similar-sized chunks and follow the recipe as usual.

Is it possible to make this stew vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or beans, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Adjust the seasoning to suit your preference.

What can I do if my stew is too thin?

If you find the stew’s broth too watery, you can whisk a little more cornstarch with milk or water and stir it in, then cook for a few more minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency.

Can I prepare this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe in advance?

Yes! One of the best things about this recipe is that it can be assembled the night before and refrigerated, then cooked the next day. This makes busy weekday meals much easier.

What type of potatoes work best in the stew?

Baby Yukon gold potatoes are recommended because they hold their shape well and add a creamy texture. Russets tend to break down more and become mushy, so they’re less ideal.

Final Thoughts

There is something genuinely soul-soothing about this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe that makes any day feel warmer and more inviting. Whether you’re new to slow cooking or a seasoned pro, this stew promises rich flavors, tender textures, and cozy moments shared around the table. I can’t wait for you to try it out and experience how effortless and rewarding a slow cooker meal can truly be.