As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of comfort. That’s where my Slow Cooker Harvest Chicken Stew comes in! This dish is a lifesaver for busy moms and professionals like us, offering a hearty meal with minimal effort. Just toss everything into the slow cooker, and let it work its magic while you tackle your day. It’s perfect for chilly evenings when you want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, this stew will become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Harvest Chicken Stew

This Slow Cooker Harvest Chicken Stew is a game-changer for anyone juggling a busy schedule. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to spend more time with your family and less time in the kitchen. The rich flavors meld beautifully as it cooks, creating a dish that warms your soul. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in those seasonal veggies your kids might otherwise avoid. Comfort food has never been this simple!

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Harvest Chicken Stew

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating a delicious Slow Cooker Harvest Chicken Stew. Here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken thighs: Boneless and skinless, they stay juicy and tender during cooking.
Chicken broth: This forms the flavorful base of your stew, adding depth to every bite.
Carrots: Sliced for sweetness and color, they bring a lovely crunch to the mix.
Potatoes: Diced for heartiness, they soak up the flavors and make the stew filling.
Onion: Chopped to add a savory aroma that enhances the overall taste.
Celery: Chopped for a fresh, crisp texture that balances the richness of the stew.
Green beans: Trimmed and added for a pop of color and a slight snap.
Garlic: Minced to infuse the dish with a warm, aromatic flavor.
Dried thyme: A classic herb that adds an earthy note to the stew.
Dried rosemary: This herb brings a fragrant, pine-like flavor that complements the chicken.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, enhancing all the flavors in the stew.
Olive oil: Used for browning the chicken, it adds richness and helps develop flavor.

Feel free to get creative! You can add other seasonal vegetables like squash or parsnips for extra flavor and nutrition. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute chicken with turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian twist. For exact quantities, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing.

How to Make Slow Cooker Harvest Chicken Stew

Making this Slow Cooker Harvest Chicken Stew is a breeze! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy.

Step 1: Brown the Chicken

Start by heating a splash of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken thighs. Brown them on both sides for about 4-5 minutes. This step is crucial! It locks in the flavors and gives the chicken a lovely golden color. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Step 2: Transfer to Slow Cooker

Once the chicken is beautifully browned, carefully transfer it to your slow cooker. Use tongs to avoid any splatter. This is where the magic happens! The slow cooker will turn that chicken into tender, juicy goodness.

Step 3: Add Vegetables and Seasonings

Now, it’s time to add the chopped vegetables. Toss in the carrots, potatoes, onion, celery, and green beans. Don’t forget the minced garlic, dried thyme, and rosemary! Sprinkle in some salt and pepper to taste. Each ingredient adds its own charm, creating a symphony of flavors.

Step 4: Pour in Chicken Broth

Next, pour the chicken broth over all the ingredients in the slow cooker. This broth is the heart of your stew, bringing everything together. It will simmer and infuse the chicken and veggies with rich, savory goodness.

Step 5: Cook to Perfection

Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook. If you’re short on time, choose the high setting for 4-5 hours. For a more leisurely approach, the low setting for 6-8 hours works wonders. The key is to cook until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.

Step 6: Shred and Serve

When the cooking time is up, remove the chicken from the slow cooker. Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Stir the shredded chicken back into the stew, mixing it well. This final touch enhances the presentation and ensures every spoonful is packed with flavor!

Tips for Success

Prep your ingredients the night before to save time in the morning.
Don’t skip browning the chicken; it adds depth to the flavor.
Adjust seasoning to your taste; a little extra salt can elevate the dish.
For a thicker stew, mash a few potatoes against the side of the slow cooker.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.

Equipment Needed

Slow Cooker: A must-have for this recipe; any size will do, but a 6-quart is ideal.
Skillet: For browning the chicken; a non-stick pan works well.
Tongs: Handy for transferring chicken without mess.
Cutting Board and Knife: Essential for chopping veggies.

Variations of Slow Cooker Harvest Chicken Stew

Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for chickpeas or lentils for a hearty plant-based stew.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a bit of heat.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a vibrant flavor boost.
Root Veggie Medley: Incorporate parsnips, turnips, or sweet potatoes for a unique twist.
Creamy Texture: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk during the last hour of cooking for a rich finish.

Serving Suggestions for Slow Cooker Harvest Chicken Stew

Crusty Bread: Serve with a warm, crusty baguette or sourdough for dipping.
Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad for a light, refreshing contrast.
Wine: A glass of white wine complements the flavors beautifully.
Garnish: Top with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

FAQs about Slow Cooker Harvest Chicken Stew

Can I use frozen chicken for this stew?

Absolutely! You can use frozen chicken thighs. Just add an extra hour to the cooking time on low. The slow cooker will safely thaw and cook the chicken to perfection.

What can I substitute for chicken broth?

If you don’t have chicken broth, vegetable broth works great too! It will still provide a rich flavor. You can also use water, but consider adding extra herbs for depth.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze the stew for up to three months. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it again!

Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in any seasonal vegetables you love. Squash, zucchini, or even kale can add a delightful twist to your Slow Cooker Harvest Chicken Stew.

Is this stew gluten-free?

Yes, this Slow Cooker Harvest Chicken Stew is naturally gluten-free! Just ensure that any broth or additional ingredients you use are labeled gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about a warm bowl of Slow Cooker Harvest Chicken Stew. It’s not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave comfort. The ease of preparation allows you to focus on what really matters—spending time with your loved ones. Each spoonful is a reminder of the simple joys in life, from the tender chicken to the vibrant veggies. I hope this stew becomes a cherished recipe in your home, bringing warmth and happiness to your family table, just as it has in mine!

Slow Cooker Harvest Chicken Stew: Discover Comfort in Every Bite!

Author: Chef Shana
Total Time: 6-8 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

A hearty and comforting slow cooker stew featuring tender chicken, seasonal vegetables, and aromatic herbs, perfect for chilly days.

Ingredients

Scale

2 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
4 cups chicken broth
3 carrots, sliced
2 potatoes, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
1 cup green beans, trimmed
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and brown the chicken thighs on both sides.
Transfer the browned chicken to the slow cooker.
Add the chopped vegetables, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
Pour the chicken broth over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Shred the chicken with two forks and stir it back into the stew before serving.

Notes

Feel free to add other seasonal vegetables like squash or parsnips.
This stew can be made a day in advance and tastes even better the next day.
Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 350
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: Slow Cooker, Harvest, Chicken, Stew, Comfort Food