This easy slow cooker chicken stew soup is a cozy meal filled with tender chicken, hearty veggies, and warm spices. It’s perfect for chilly days when you need comfort in a bowl!
The best part? Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do its magic. I love serving it with crusty bread for dipping—so satisfying! 🥖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I love using chicken thighs for their juicy flavor, but breasts work just as well. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, stick with the breasts. You can also use leftover roast chicken—just add it toward the end of cooking.
Vegetables: Carrots, potatoes, and celery are classic choices. Feel free to add or substitute with green beans, mushrooms, or parsnips if you prefer. Whatever vegetables you have on hand will add great flavor!
Herbs and Spices: Thyme and rosemary bring a lovely aroma. If you don’t have them, dried Italian seasoning or a mix of herbs can work in a pinch. For a little kick, you might consider a dash of red pepper flakes.
Broth: Chicken broth is suggested for depth of flavor. If you prefer, vegetable broth can be a fantastic substitute, making this meal suitable for vegetarians if you also change the chicken.
How Do I Get the Chicken Just Right?
To ensure tender, flavorful chicken, browning it in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker is super helpful. While this step is optional, it really brings out the flavors. Just remember—you don’t need to cook it through; a golden-brown sear is perfect!
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden.
- Transfer to the slow cooker, and it will finish cooking there.
How Can I Make It Thicker if I Want?
If you love a thicker stew, using flour is a great technique. Mix the flour with cold water to create a slurry before adding it to the stew. Stir it in about 10-15 minutes before serving to allow it to thicken nicely!
Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stew:
- 1.5 lbs (700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
- 4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups (1 liter) chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup frozen peas (added near the end)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Time Estimate:
This comforting stew takes about 15 minutes of prep time and then allows your slow cooker to work its magic for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Just set it and forget it until dinnertime!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Browning the Chicken (Optional):
In a skillet over medium heat, pour in the olive oil. Sear the chicken pieces for about 3-4 minutes per side until they are lightly browned. This step adds extra flavor, but if you’re short on time, you can skip it and add the uncooked chicken directly to the slow cooker.
2. Assemble the Stew:
Transfer the browned chicken (or raw chicken) to the slow cooker. Then, add the sliced carrots, celery, chopped onion, minced garlic, diced potatoes, dried thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together to combine.
3. Add the Liquid:
Pour in the chicken broth and water. Give it a gentle stir to make sure the ingredients are mixed well. This is the base for your delicious stew!
4. Slow Cook the Stew:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The stew is done when the chicken is cooked through and the veggies are tender.
5. Stir in the Peas:
About 15 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the frozen peas. They’ll add a nice pop of color and sweetness to the stew!
6. Thicken the Stew (Optional):
If you’d like a thicker consistency, mix the flour with a bit of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the stew and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes to thicken it up.
7. Taste and Adjust:
Don’t forget to taste your stew before serving! Add more salt and pepper if needed to suit your taste.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the warm stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or thyme if you like. Serve it alongside crusty bread or over rice for an extra hearty meal!
Enjoy your comforting and easy slow cooker chicken stew soup!
FAQ About Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Soup
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can! If using frozen chicken, add it directly to the slow cooker without thawing. Just be aware that cooking time may need to be extended by about 30 minutes to ensure it reaches the proper temperature.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the chicken with your favorite plant-based protein, such as chickpeas or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add more vegetables for added flavor and nutrition!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to rehydrate the stew.
Can I Add Different Vegetables?
Absolutely! This stew is versatile, so feel free to add any vegetables you love or have on hand. Zucchini, green beans, or bell peppers would be great additions. Just make sure to adjust cooking times slightly for any firmer veggies.
