There’s something incredibly comforting about a hearty chicken stew simmering away in the slow cooker, filling your home with warmth and inviting aromas. This Slow-Cooker Homey Chicken Stew is the perfect dish for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or anytime you crave a wholesome, satisfying meal. Packed with tender chicken thighs, aromatic vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth, this stew is a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to make this delicious dish!
Recipe:
This Slow-Cooker Homey Chicken Stew is a one-pot wonder that combines tender boneless, skinless chicken thighs with onions, garlic, and thyme, all simmered in a savory broth thickened with a touch of flour. The slow cooker does most of the work, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully while you go about your day. The result is a comforting, home-cooked meal that’s perfect for serving with crusty bread, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Ingredients:
To make this Slow-Cooker Homey Chicken Stew, you’ll need the following ingredients:
– 3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, trimmed
– Salt and pepper (to taste)
– 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 onions, chopped fine
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 6 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 teaspoons minced fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
– 3 celery ribs, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
– 2 bay leaves
– 1 cup frozen peas (optional, for added color and texture)
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Directions/Instructions:
Follow these step-by-step instructions to prepare your Slow-Cooker Homey Chicken Stew:
1. **Prepare the Chicken:**
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.
2. **Brown the Chicken:**
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Working in batches, add the chicken thighs and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer the browned chicken to the slow cooker.
3. **Cook the Vegetables:**
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the chopped onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, until lightly golden. Add the minced garlic, tomato paste, and thyme, and cook for another minute, stirring constantly.
4. **Deglaze the Skillet:**
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and water, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until slightly thickened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. **Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:**
Pour the broth mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker. Add the carrots, celery, and bay leaves. Stir gently to combine.
6. **Cook the Stew:**
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
7. **Add Final Touches:**
If using, stir in the frozen peas during the last 10 minutes of cooking to heat through. Discard the bay leaves.
8. **Serve:**
Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve with crusty bread, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
FAQ:
Here are some frequently asked questions about this Slow-Cooker Homey Chicken Stew:
**Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?**
A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but keep in mind that thighs are more flavorful and tender when cooked for long periods. If using breasts, reduce the cooking time slightly to prevent them from drying out.
**Q: Can I make this stew ahead of time?**
A: Absolutely! This stew reheats beautifully. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
**Q: Can I add other vegetables?**
A: Of course! Feel free to customize the stew with your favorite vegetables, such as potatoes, parsnips, or green beans. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they’re tender.
**Q: Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?**
A: Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the stew.
**Q: Can I cook this stew on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?**
A: Yes, you can make this stew on the stovetop. Simmer it in a large pot over low heat for about 1-1.5 hours, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
Conclusion:
This Slow-Cooker Homey Chicken Stew is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With minimal prep and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting friends, this stew is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and get ready to savor the warmth and comfort of this hearty chicken stew. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!