Introduction
This hearty chicken stew is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Packed with tender chicken, nutritious vegetables, and aromatic herbs, this slow-cooked meal will warm your soul. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you’re simply in need of a filling dish, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
4 gold potatoes, cut into large cubes
3 carrots, coined
2 celery stalks, sliced
1 medium onion, chopped into large chunks
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried sage
2 sprigs fresh rosemary
2 sprigs fresh thyme
1 bay leaf
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons cold water
Salt and pepper to taste
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 6-7 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high
Total Time: Approximately 6-7 hours
Yield: Serves 4
Directions
1. Prepare the vegetables: chop the onion into large chunks, coin the carrots, slice the celery, and cut the potatoes into large cubes. Mince the garlic.
2. Set the slow cooker to low for 6-7 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
3. Add the chopped vegetables, minced garlic, and dried sage to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
4. Place the rosemary and thyme sprigs, along with the bay leaf, on top of the vegetables.
5. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then place them on top of the herbs and vegetables in the slow cooker.
6. Pour the chicken broth over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
7. Cover and cook until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the vegetables are tender.
8. About 30 minutes before the cooking time ends, remove the chicken breasts and herb sprigs.
9. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks.
10. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with cold water until smooth to create a slurry.
11. Stir the cornstarch slurry into the slow cooker to thicken the stew.
12. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and cook for the remaining time.
13. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
14. Serve the stew hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Vegetables
Chop the onion into large chunks, coin the carrots, slice the celery, and cut the potatoes into large cubes. Mince the garlic.
Set the Slow Cooker
Set the slow cooker to low for 6-7 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker
Add the chopped vegetables, minced garlic, and dried sage to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
Layer the Herbs
Place the rosemary and thyme sprigs, along with the bay leaf, on top of the vegetables.
Season and Add Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then place them on top of the herbs and vegetables in the slow cooker.
Pour in the Chicken Broth
Pour the chicken broth over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
Cook the Stew
Cover and cook until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the vegetables are tender.
Remove Chicken and Herbs
About 30 minutes before the cooking time ends, remove the chicken breasts and herb sprigs.
Shred the Chicken
Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks.
Make the Cornstarch Slurry
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with cold water until smooth to create a slurry.
Thicken the Stew
Stir the cornstarch slurry into the slow cooker to thicken the stew.
Return Shredded Chicken
Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and cook for the remaining time.
Taste and Adjust Seasoning
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Serve the Stew
Serve the stew hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
Cooking Time Variation
Cooking times may vary based on the model of your slow cooker; ensure the chicken is thoroughly cooked and vegetables are tender.
Herb Substitutions
Feel free to substitute dried herbs if fresh are not available; however, use less as dried herbs are more concentrated.
Storage Tips
Leftover stew can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months; reheat thoroughly before serving.
Adjusting Vegetables
You can add or substitute other vegetables such as peas or green beans based on your preference.
Cook Techniques
Chopping Vegetables
Cut the onion into large chunks, coin the carrots, slice the celery, and cube the potatoes to ensure even cooking in the slow cooker.
Mincing Garlic
Mince the garlic finely to release its flavor, enhancing the dish’s aroma and taste.
Seasoning
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper before adding them to the slow cooker for optimal flavor.
Layering Ingredients
Layer the vegetables, herbs, and chicken in the slow cooker to allow the flavors to meld as it cooks.
Using a Slow Cooker
Set the slow cooker to the appropriate temperature and time, adjusting according to your schedule for tender chicken and vegetables.
Shredding Chicken
Remove cooked chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks for a better texture in the stew.
Thickening the Stew
Create a cornstarch slurry with cold water to thicken the stew, giving it a heartier consistency.
Tasting and Adjusting Seasoning
Taste the stew before serving and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed for optimal flavor.
FAQ
Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but it may require a longer cooking time.
What can I substitute for chicken broth?
You can substitute vegetable broth or water with added seasonings if you prefer a different base.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can this recipe be frozen?
Yes, the stew can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
What vegetables can I add to this stew?
Feel free to add vegetables like peas, green beans, or bell peppers according to your preference.
Conclusion
This comforting chicken stew is a perfect blend of tender chicken and flavorful vegetables, making it a wholesome meal for any occasion. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a dish that is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients and a slow cooker, you can enjoy a hearty and satisfying meal.
Chicken and Rice Casserole
Combine shredded chicken with cooked rice, mixed vegetables, and cream of mushroom soup. Top with cheese and bake until bubbly for a comforting casserole.
Vegetable Chicken Stir-fry
Sauté shredded chicken with broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas. Add soy sauce and serve over steamed rice or noodles for a quick dinner.
Chicken Pot Pie
Use the shredded chicken and vegetables to create a creamy filling, then top with pie crust. Bake until golden brown for a classic pot pie.
Lemon Herb Chicken Soup
Add lemon juice and zest to the chicken broth along with fresh herbs for a light and zesty twist on the traditional chicken soup.
Barbecue Chicken Wraps
Toss shredded chicken with barbecue sauce and serve in tortillas with coleslaw for a quick and delicious wrap.
Chicken and Dumplings
Make a hearty chicken and dumpling dish by adding biscuit dough on top of the stew and cooking until the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.
