A Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is the perfect dish for chilly days, bringing warmth and comfort with every bite. This recipe offers a hearty and creamy stew without using any cream, making it a healthier option that everyone will love. Ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights in, this stew can be enjoyed at any occasion. Its standout feature is its ability to develop rich flavors while cooking slowly, allowing you to enjoy your day while it simmers away.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
This stew is not only delicious but also incredibly practical.
- Easy Preparation: With minimal prep time, this recipe allows you to throw everything into the slow cooker and go about your day.
- Rich Flavor: The slow cooking process melds the spices and ingredients together beautifully, creating a rich and satisfying dish.
- Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize by adding your favorite vegetables or switching up the protein.
- Healthy Comfort Food: Enjoy all the comfort of a classic stew without heavy cream or excessive calories.
- Great for Leftovers: This stew tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or easy lunches.
Tools and Preparation
To make this slow cooker chicken stew perfectly, you’ll need some essential tools.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Large skillet
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: The heart of this recipe; it allows for low-and-slow cooking that maximizes flavor.
- Large skillet: Perfect for searing the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker, helping to lock in juices.
- Cutting board & sharp knife: Necessary for efficiently chopping vegetables and chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking.
Ingredients
A hearty and creamy chicken stew without the use of cream, this comforting slow cooker recipe is perfect for chilly days.
For the Stew
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 ½ pounds chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- ½ teaspoon salt, plus more to season
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 large potatoes, cut into ½-inch cubes (1 pound)
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 bay leaf
- ½ cup milk
- 1 cup frozen green peas
- Black pepper, to season

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Dice the chicken thighs into 1-inch pieces and season generously with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and sear for 4-5 minutes until browned on all sides.
– You don’t need to cook the chicken through—just sear to lock in the juices.
– Optional: If your slow cooker has a removable stovetop-safe pot, you can use it to sear directly on the stovetop before returning it to the slow-cooker base.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker
Transfer the seared chicken to the slow cooker. Sprinkle with flour, thyme, rosemary, and ½ teaspoon salt. Stir to coat evenly.
Add garlic, onion, carrots, and potatoes. Stir well before pouring in chicken broth and adding bay leaf.
Step 4: Cook
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Step 5: Finish with Peas and Milk
Once cooking time is complete, stir in frozen peas and milk. Cook on high for an additional 10-15 minutes until peas are warmed through.
Step 6: Adjust Consistency & Seasoning
If stew is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth. If too thin, whisk in a little extra flour. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 7: Serve
Serve immediately or store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Enjoy!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Serving Slow Cooker Chicken Stew can enhance your dining experience. This creamy, hearty dish pairs well with various sides and toppings that complement its rich flavors.
With Crusty Bread
- Sourdough Bread: Its tangy flavor and chewy texture make it perfect for soaking up the stew.
- Garlic Bread: Adds a buttery, garlicky twist that pairs beautifully with the savory stew.
Over Rice
- White Rice: A simple base that absorbs the flavors of the stew.
- Brown Rice: Offers a nutty flavor and more fiber for a healthier option.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Parsley: Brightens up the dish with fresh flavors.
- Green Onions: Adds a slight crunch and oniony taste that enhances the overall experience.
With a Side Salad
- Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and creamy dressing provide a refreshing contrast.
- Garden Salad: Mixed greens with cucumbers and tomatoes add lightness to your meal.
How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
To achieve the best results with your Slow Cooker Chicken Stew, follow these helpful tips:
- Use Bone-In Chicken: Bone-in thighs add flavor and richness to your stew.
- Sear First: Browning the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker locks in juices and enhances flavor.
- Add Veggies Wisely: Include heartier vegetables like carrots and potatoes early; add delicate ones like peas towards the end.
- Adjust Consistency: If too thick, add broth; if thin, mix in some flour for thickness.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the stew to sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking lets flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Chicken Stew can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, they create a comforting base alongside the stew.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies adds color and nutrients to your plate.
- Buttered Noodles: Soft noodles tossed in butter make for an easy yet satisfying side.
- Cornbread: Slightly sweet, cornbread is excellent for dipping into the hearty stew.
- Quinoa Salad: A healthy grain salad with veggies complements the richness of the stew nicely.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a nutritious balance to this hearty dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Slow Cooker Chicken Stew, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:
- Overcrowding the slow cooker: This can lead to uneven cooking. Always ensure you have enough space for all ingredients to cook properly.
- Skipping the browning step: Not searing the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker can result in a less flavorful stew. Take the time to brown your meat for added depth of flavor.
- Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning before serving can make your stew bland. Always sample and season as needed.
- Using low-quality ingredients: Poor-quality or expired ingredients can ruin your dish. Choose fresh, high-quality items for the best results.
- Ignoring cooking times: Cooking on too high of a setting or not following recommended times can affect texture. Stick to suggested cooking times for optimal tenderness.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Slow Cooker Chicken Stew in an airtight container.
- It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing Instructions
- Allow the stew to cool completely before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags, and label them with the date.
- The stew can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Instructions
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer stew to an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Pour the stew into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated thoroughly, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs in Slow Cooker Chicken Stew?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for thighs if you prefer a leaner option. Just be aware that chicken breasts may become drier if overcooked.
How do I thicken my Slow Cooker Chicken Stew?
If your stew is too thin, whisk in a little extra flour or cornstarch mixed with water during the last cooking phase. This will help thicken it without altering flavor.
What vegetables can I add to my Slow Cooker Chicken Stew?
Feel free to customize by adding vegetables like green beans, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Is this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch.
Can I prepare this stew ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep all ingredients and store them in the fridge overnight. Just toss everything into the slow cooker in the morning and let it cook throughout the day.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is not only hearty and comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with different vegetables or spices based on what you have on hand. Whether served with crusty bread or over rice, it’s sure to warm your heart on chilly days. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!

Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves approximately six people 1x
Description
Warm up your chilly days with this delightful Slow Cooker Chicken Stew. Packed with tender chicken thighs, hearty vegetables, and a blend of aromatic herbs, this comforting dish is both satisfying and healthy—without any heavy cream. Just toss your ingredients into the slow cooker, set it, and enjoy the rich flavors that develop over several hours. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this stew tastes even better the next day. Serve it with crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal that will keep everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 ½ pounds chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 large potatoes, cubed
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 bay leaf
- ½ cup milk
- 1 cup frozen green peas
Instructions
- Dice the chicken thighs into pieces and season with salt and pepper.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and sear the chicken until browned (4-5 minutes).
- Transfer chicken to the slow cooker; sprinkle with flour, thyme, rosemary, and salt. Stir well.
- Add garlic, onion, carrots, potatoes, and pour in chicken broth; add bay leaf.
- Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Stir in peas and milk; cook on high for an additional 10-15 minutes.
- Adjust consistency if needed; serve hot.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: Low (7–8 hours) / High (3–4 hours)
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (about 250g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
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