Slow Cooker Chicken Stew: The Ultimate Comfort Food for Autumn ๐ฒ๐โจ
1. Introduction
Welcome to your new favorite Fall Crock Pot Recipes Healthy! This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is a hearty, nutritious, and incredibly easy dish that combines tender cooked chicken with a medley of fresh vegetables, all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker. Perfect for chilly evenings or cozy weekend dinners, this Chicken And Veggie Stew embodies the warmth and flavors of autumn. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Crock Pots recipe is a must-try for anyone seeking comfort food with healthy ingredients.
2. Why Choose This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe?
This chicken stew recipe slow cooker stands out because itโs not only delicious but also versatile and healthy. Using ingredients like fresh vegetables and lean chicken, it aligns with the best Dinner ideas for nutritious, wholesome meals. Additionally, itโs a perfect example of Slow Cooker Recipes Chicken Stew, making busy weeknights easier without sacrificing flavor. Whether youโre looking for Autumn Crockpot Meals or a comforting Chicken Stew Crockpot Easy dish, this recipe ticks all the boxes.
3. Ingredients for Healthy & Delicious Chicken Stew
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 3 large carrots, chopped
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 cup green beans or peas
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: potatoes, parsnips, or other root vegetables
4. Step-by-Step Instructions for Cooking Chicken and Vegetable Stew
Preparation of Ingredients
Start by chopping all vegetables and preparing your chicken. You can use Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup ingredients as inspiration. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and herbs beforehand for extra flavor.
Cooking Process in the Slow Cooker
- Add the chicken, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic into the Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker.
- Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle with thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Place the bay leaf on top and cover with the lid.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and vegetables are cooked through.
- During the last 30 minutes, add green beans or peas for a burst of freshness and color.
- Remove the bay leaf, shred the chicken if necessary, and stir well before serving.
5. Storage Tips and Serving Suggestions
This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months using a JoyJolt Airtight Glass Food Storage Set. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave for a quick, satisfying meal.
For serving, pair this hearty stew with crusty bread or a side of rice. This dish also makes a fantastic meal prep option for the week ahead. Consider adding a dollop of sour cream or fresh herbs like parsley for an extra touch of flavor.
6. Tips for Perfecting Your Chicken Stew
- Use non-stick cookware if modifying the recipe for stovetop.
- Experiment with different herbs like sage or thyme for personalized flavors.
- For a thicker stew, add a slurry of cornstarch and water during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Make this recipe even more wholesome by adding sweet potatoes or cauliflower.
7. Other Related and Delicious Crockpot Recipes
Looking for more options? Check out related recipes such as Smothered Chicken and Rice or explore other dinner ideas that your family will love. For an easy, satisfying dinner, consider trying the Creamy Parmesan Beef Rigatoni.
8. FAQs About Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Can I use frozen chicken for this stew?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it may extend the cooking time by about 30 minutes. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165ยฐF (74ยฐC) before serving.
How can I make this stew healthier?
To boost the healthiness, add more vegetables, use low-sodium broth, and opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts. You can also replace heavy cream with Greek yogurt for creaminess.
What are some good side dishes for this chicken stew?
Serve your chicken stew crockpot with warm crusty bread, rice, or a side salad for a complete meal.
9. Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is a perfect combination of simplicity, health, and flavor, making it an ideal addition to your dinner ideas collection. Its rich taste and comforting texture make it suitable for any occasion, especially during the fall season. With just a few ingredients and a slow cooker, you can create a nourishing meal that your whole family will love. Donโt forget to check out our recommended kitchen gadgets like the Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker for the best cooking experience. Happy cooking!
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Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
- Author: Maria
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4โ6 servings 1x
- Diet: Healthy, Low Fat
Description
Enjoy the comforting and hearty Slow Cooker Chicken Stew, a perfect autumn meal that combines tender chicken with fresh vegetables, slow-cooked to perfection. This nutritious and easy recipe makes cozy dinners simple and delicious, ideal for chilly evenings or busy weeknights. Made with wholesome ingredients and minimal prep, itโs your go-to fall crockpot recipe for satisfying flavor and healthful eating.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 3 large carrots, chopped
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 cup green beans or peas
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: potatoes, parsnips, or other root vegetables
Instructions
- Add the chicken, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic into the Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker.
- Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle with thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Place the bay leaf on top and cover with the lid.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and vegetables are cooked through.
- During the last 30 minutes, add green beans or peas for a burst of freshness and color.
- Remove the bay leaf, shred the chicken if necessary, and stir well before serving.
Notes
- Use skinless, boneless chicken for a leaner option.
- Adjust cooking time if using frozen chicken, adding about 30 minutes.
- Reheat leftovers gently on the stove or microwave.
- Add herbs like sage or thyme for varied flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low, 3-4 hours on high
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 250 Kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg