
There’s something deeply comforting about a warm bowl of chicken stew, especially when it’s been simmering all day in your slow cooker. This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is a hearty, wholesome meal packed with tender chicken, chunky vegetables, and flavorful broth—all made with simple pantry staples. Perfect for chilly evenings or busy weekdays, this recipe gives you all the home-cooked flavor without hovering over a stove.
Using a slow cooker makes it incredibly easy—just toss everything in, set it, and forget it until dinner time. No wine, bacon, or processed meats here—just clean, nourishing ingredients the whole family will love. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, meal prepping, or just craving cozy comfort food, this stew hits the spot every time.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
This chicken stew is pure comfort in a bowl. It’s easy to prep, uses budget-friendly ingredients, and simmers to perfection in your slow cooker. The flavors are rich and hearty, thanks to garlic, herbs, tomato paste, and vegetables like carrots and potatoes—no need for alcohol or bacon to boost the taste.
It’s a flexible recipe too. You can add your favorite vegetables or swap in chicken breasts if that’s what you have on hand. It’s naturally gluten-free if thickened with cornstarch, and leftovers taste even better the next day. Whether you’re cooking for your family or stocking your freezer, this stew is warm, filling, and incredibly satisfying.
What You’ll Need
Making this slow cooker chicken stew requires simple, wholesome ingredients you likely already have on hand. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this comforting dish to life:
Main Ingredients:
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts), cut into chunks
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, diced (Yukon Gold or Russet work best)
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste – adds rich depth
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth – the flavorful base
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
These ingredients come together to create a stew that’s savory, satisfying, and free of processed meats or alcohol-based flavor enhancers. You can always tweak the vegetables or spices based on your personal preferences.

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
This stew couldn’t be easier to make. Just layer your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and enjoy delicious results by dinnertime.
Instructions:
- Layer the Ingredients:
In the slow cooker, add the chicken, carrots, potatoes, celery, onion, and garlic. - Add Seasoning and Liquid:
Stir in the tomato paste, chicken broth, thyme, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper. - Cook:
Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender. - Thicken (Optional):
If you’d like a thicker stew, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the stew. Cook uncovered for 10–15 minutes more until thickened. - Taste and Serve:
Adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle into bowls and serve hot with bread or biscuits.
This dish is straightforward, family-friendly, and ideal for both weeknight dinners and weekend comfort meals.
You Must Know
Before diving into this stew, there are a few key tips that can make a big difference in both flavor and texture. First, chicken thighs are ideal for this recipe—they stay juicy and tender even after hours of cooking. Chicken breasts work too, but they may dry out slightly if overcooked.
Next, cut your vegetables uniformly so they cook evenly. Potatoes, carrots, and celery are the base trio, but if you want to add extras like sweet potatoes or green beans, add them based on their cooking time. For instance, softer vegetables like peas or spinach should be stirred in during the last 15–30 minutes to avoid overcooking.
Also important: don’t skip the tomato paste. It adds a subtle richness and umami depth to the stew, which helps replace the bold flavors you’d usually get from ingredients like wine or bacon. For broth, choose low-sodium chicken broth so you can control the salt level to your taste.
If you’re watching your carb intake, feel free to use fewer potatoes or substitute with cauliflower chunks. Want a gluten-free version? Skip flour thickeners and use cornstarch or arrowroot powder instead.
Lastly, don’t rush the process. The beauty of a slow cooker stew is the long, slow simmer—it’s what develops the hearty flavor and tender textures. Trust the time.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Getting your stew just right isn’t hard, but a few smart strategies can elevate it from good to unforgettable. Start by layering your ingredients properly—vegetables on the bottom and chicken on top. This ensures that the denser veggies get direct heat and soften perfectly without turning mushy.
To boost flavor without wine or meat-based flavorings, use herbs like thyme and parsley, plus paprika for a gentle smoky note. A spoonful of tomato paste deepens the taste, and sautéing the onions and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker (optional step) adds an extra layer of flavor.
Timing is also key. Cooking on low for 6–8 hours yields the best texture and flavor, but high for 3–4 hours works in a pinch. Avoid lifting the lid while cooking—every time you do, you lose heat and extend the cooking time.
If you prefer a thicker stew, wait until the final 30 minutes to stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water. Let it bubble uncovered slightly to thicken naturally.
Lastly, taste and adjust seasoning before serving. Slow cooking can mellow out salt and spice, so don’t be afraid to finish with a sprinkle of salt, black pepper, or even a dash of lemon juice for brightness.

Add Your Touch Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
This chicken stew is super versatile—perfect for customizing! Want more veggies? Add peas, green beans, or corn in the last 20 minutes. Leafy greens like spinach or kale also mix in beautifully at the end.
Craving a creamy finish? Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or coconut milk after cooking. Or, top each bowl with sour cream, Greek yogurt, or shredded cheese for richness.
Like spice? A pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika adds heat. For extra flavor, garnish with fresh parsley or thyme. Serve with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a full, comforting meal.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave with a splash of broth if it’s too thick.
Bookmark this easy recipe for your next meal plan.
To freeze, let it cool fully, then portion into freezer-safe bags or containers. It keeps well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat thoroughly before serving.
For best results, add any dairy (like cream or yogurt) after reheating instead of before freezing.
Chef’s Helpful Tips FOR Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Next time, give this delicious twist a try
- Use chicken thighs for the best flavor and tenderness—they hold up better in long cooking than breasts.
- Cut veggies evenly so they cook at the same rate. Large chunks work best to avoid mushy textures.
- Add delicate veggies late. Peas, spinach, or corn should go in during the final 15–20 minutes.
- Avoid lifting the lid. Each peek slows down cooking and lets out heat. Trust the process.
- Thicken if desired with a cornstarch slurry near the end (2 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water).
- Taste before serving. Add a pinch more salt, pepper, or a splash of lemon juice for brightness.

FAQ FOR Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes! Just watch the cook time to avoid dryness—breasts may cook faster.
How do I make it gluten-free?
Use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken, and confirm your broth is gluten-free.
Add this cozy meal to your rotation next
Can I add pasta or rice?
For best texture, cook them separately and stir them in before serving.
How can I make it creamy?
Add heavy cream, half-and-half, or coconut milk after cooking.
Is it freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! Cool it first, then freeze for up to 3 months in airtight containers.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is the ultimate cozy meal—simple to make, full of rich flavor, and perfect for busy weeknights or slow Sundays. With tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a broth that comforts with every spoonful, it’s a dish your whole family will request again and again.
It’s also flexible: easy to customize, freezer-friendly, and made with wholesome ingredients—no pork, alcohol, or processed meats needed. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this stew brings warmth and comfort with minimal effort.
Grab your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and let this recipe become a new favorite in your kitchen. Happy cooking!

The Best Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe You’ll Ever Make
Description
This hearty Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is a simple, comforting meal packed with tender chicken, carrots, potatoes, and flavorful herbs. Just prep, set your slow cooker, and enjoy a warm, satisfying dinner with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Instructions
Place chicken, carrots, potatoes, celery, onion, and garlic in slow cooker.
Stir in tomato paste, chicken broth, thyme, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours until chicken and vegetables are tender.
(Optional) To thicken, mix cornstarch and water, stir into stew, and cook uncovered 10–15 minutes more.
Adjust seasoning and serve warm.
Notes
- Chicken thighs stay juicy; breasts can be used but may dry out.
Add delicate vegetables like peas or spinach in the last 15 minutes.
For gluten-free, use cornstarch to thicken.
Leftovers taste better the next day and freeze well.