Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

There’s nothing quite like coming home to the comforting aroma of a hearty stew simmering away in the slow cooker. This Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is a cozy and satisfying dish perfect for those busy weekdays or lazy weekends. With tender pieces of chicken, an array of colorful vegetables, and a rich, savory broth, this stew is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Simply set it and forget it, and let the slow cooker do all the work while you go about your day. Serve it with some crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal that will warm you from the inside out.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
• 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup frozen corn
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Transfer the chicken to the slow cooker.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 3 minutes. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring to coat evenly.
3. Assemble the Stew: Transfer the onion mixture to the slow cooker. Add the carrots, celery, potatoes, peas, corn, thyme, rosemary, salt, pepper, and bay leaf.
4. Add the Broth: Pour the chicken broth over the ingredients in the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.
5. Cook the Stew: Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
6. Finish and Serve: Before serving, remove the bay leaf. Stir the stew to distribute the flavors evenly. Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your delicious and hearty Slow Cooker Chicken Stew!