Hearty Slow Cooker Chicken Stew – Perfect for Cozy Nights

There's nothing like coming home to the comforting aroma of a slow-cooked stew on a chilly evening. This chicken stew is hearty, flavorful, and easy to prepare. With chunks of tender chicken, soft vegetables, and a rich broth, it’s a complete meal in one pot. Using a slow cooker means less hands-on time and more convenience—just set it and forget it.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into cubes

• 3 carrots, peeled and sliced

• 2 medium potatoes, diced

• 1 onion, chopped

• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• ½ tsp black pepper

• Salt to taste

• Optional: 1 bay leaf, ½ cup frozen peas (added near the end)

Instructions:

1. Add the cubed chicken, carrots, potatoes, and onion to the slow cooker.

2. Pour in the chicken broth, then add garlic, thyme, pepper, and salt.

3. Stir gently to combine. Add a bay leaf if desired.

4. Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

5. Optional: Add frozen peas during the last 30 minutes for extra color and nutrition.

6. Before serving, remove the bay leaf and adjust seasoning if needed.

This dish is naturally gluten-free and can be made dairy-free. Serve with crusty bread or over rice for an even heartier meal. Leftovers store well and taste even better the next day, making it great for meal prep or family dinners.

Make It Your Own:
Add chopped celery, parsnips, or sweet potatoes to switch things up. You can also swap chicken breast for thighs if you prefer richer flavor.