Slow Cooker Chicken Comforting Stew

This Slow Cooker Chicken and Vegetable Stew takes just 15 minutes to prep and is packed with flavor! Enjoy this hearty dish made with leftover chicken, carrots, potatoes, celery. Perfect for busy weeknights! Serves 6.

Slow Cooker Chicken and Vegetable Stew

about slow cooker chicken and vegetable stew

slow cooker recipes have been a staple in kitchens for decades, emerging from the need for convenient meal preparation, the slow cooker, or crockpot as we affectionately call it, revolutionized home cooking by allowing busy families to enjoy wholesome meals without the hassle of constant attention, this delightful slow cooker chicken and vegetable stew is not just a dish; it's a comforting embrace on chilly evenings .

what sets this stew apart ? it's all about using leftover cooked chicken, which reduces waste while creating a hearty meal that feels like a warm hug from grandma, combining tender chicken with vibrant vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and peas creates an enticing mix of flavors that dance across your palate, plus, you get the satisfaction of knowing you're making something delicious and economical .

master the art of slow cooker chicken and vegetable stew

this stew boasts rich culinary heritage rooted in diverse cultures where slow - cooked meals are celebrated for their depth of flavor, historically, stews were created as a means to make use of leftovers while infusing them with new life through slow cooking techniques, it’s fascinating how this method has stood the test of time bringing people together around the dinner table since ancient times.

the origin story behind this dish intertwines various traditions the french pot - au - feu meets classic american comfort food vibes. in many cultures worldwide, stews symbolize family gatherings and shared moments over food a beautiful reminder that cooking transcends borders .

today’s popularity reflects our ongoing love affair with “set it and forget it” meals perfect for today’s fast - paced lifestyle. just toss everything into your slow cooker before heading out for work or running errands; when you come back home, you'll be welcomed by mouthwatering aromas wafting through your door .

why this recipe will amaze you

get ready to experience unique flavor combinations that elevate ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary. the blend of dried thyme and rosemary adds aromatic notes reminiscent of cozy evenings spent at home, trust me; once you try this recipe, it'll become part of your regular rotation.

foolproof techniques ensure even novice cooks can whip up this scrumptious stew without any drama in the kitchen, with expert - tested methods guiding you every step along the way like sautéing aromatics before adding them to the slow cooker you’ll feel confident tackling any culinary challenge.

time - saving tips will also win you over : utilizing leftover chicken cuts down prep time significantly (hello easy weeknight dinner.), and let’s not forget about cleanup who doesn’t love minimal dishes after enjoying such an amazing meal ?

health & nutrition highlights

nutritionally speaking ? this slow cooker chicken and vegetable stew shines bright. packed full with protein from shredded chicken alongside fiber - rich veggies makes it both nourishing and satisfying all while being low - calorie compared to other comfort foods .

dietary considerations are also met here : gluten - free ingredients mean everyone can partake in its warmth regardless if they’re following certain dietary restrictions, plus and i can't stress enough how important this is it provides wellness advantages thanks to vitamins found naturally occurring within those vibrant veggies.

in terms balanced nutrition facts per serving ? we’re looking at approximately 300 calories loaded with 25g protein while keeping carbs around 35g that's quite impressive considering how filling each bowl turns out.

recipe at a glance

so what can you expect regarding overall effort involved ? total preparation time is just about 15 minutes (yes please.), followed by either six hours on low or three hours on high cooking mode easy peasy lemon squeezy.

skill level required ? easy - peasy. seriously folks; if you've ever boiled water successfully…you’ve got what it takes here too..

serving size details indicate roughly six servings per batch meaning plenty left over for lunches throughout week or sharing amongst friends during casual hangouts…

lastly but certainly not least cost efficiency - wise ? ? using leftover ingredients keeps expenses down while still treating yourself well not bad right ?.

in summary : dive into making this delightful slow cooker chicken and vegetable stew soon because trust me it’ll amaze you beyond expectations..

perfect ingredients selection

when it comes to making a delicious slow cooker chicken and vegetable stew, the ingredients you choose can elevate your dish from good to fabulous, here’s how to select the perfect components for this cozy meal .

premium core ingredients

• leftover cooked chicken (2 cups) : use shredded or cubed chicken that’s well - cooked, rotisserie chicken works wonders here. look for meat that's moist and flavorful this will bring depth to your stew .

• carrots (2 medium) : fresh, firm carrots are best, avoid any that feel soft or have blemishes, when selecting, opt for those with vibrant color; they’re usually sweeter.

• potatoes (2 medium) : choose starchy varieties like russets or yukon golds for creaminess in your stew, always check for sprouting or green patches; they should be smooth and unblemished .

• celery stalks (2) : crisp celery adds a nice crunch and flavor, look for bright green stalks with no wilting those are freshest.

• onion (1 medium) : go for yellow onions as they're versatile and sweeten up nicely when cooked, ensure there are no soft spots; this usually indicates spoilage .

• garlic cloves (3) : fresh garlic is key. select bulbs that feel firm without any sprouts peeking out those little shoots don’t taste great in your stew .

• frozen peas (1 cup) : frozen peas are perfect because they retain their sweetness when frozen right after harvest, no need to thaw them before adding they’ll cook perfectly during simmering.

• chicken broth (4 cups) : homemade broth ? even better. if using store - bought, go for low - sodium options so you can control the saltiness of your dish .

storage guidance

most of these ingredients can be stored in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight, leftover cooked chicken should ideally be refrigerated within two hours of cooking and used within three days or freeze it if you're not planning on using it soon.

signature seasoning blend

a good seasoning blend takes this recipe over the top. let’s dive into some scrumptious spices and herbs :

• dried thyme (1 teaspoon) & dried rosemary (1 teaspoon) : these classic herbs add earthy notes to our stew, make sure they’re fresh by checking expiration dates on jars you want all that flavor packed in there.

• bay leaf (1 whole leaf) : this aromatic addition gives off subtle flavors as it cooks but remember to remove it before serving it won’t taste good if eaten whole.

flavor enhancers

don’t skimp on salt and black pepper; season according to taste. for an extra kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce toward the end of cooking time .

smart substitutions

life happens, right ? so here are some smart swaps if you're missing an ingredient :

• instead of leftover chicken, turkey works just fine.

• don’t have fresh veggies ? canned vegetables can work too but rinse them well before tossing into the mix .

dietary swaps

for gluten - free diets, ensure your broth is certified gluten - free and use cornstarch instead of flour if thickening is needed later on .

seasonal variations

feel free to swap out veggies based on what's available seasonally zucchini in summer or pumpkin chunks in fall would make delightful additions.

kitchen equipment essentials

having the right tools makes everything easier when whipping up our slow cooker dish :

must - have tools

a sturdy cutting board and sharp knife will speed up vegetable prep like nobody's business.

recommended appliances

of course, you'll need a slow cooker a 6 - quart model is ideal since it holds enough goodness without crowding anything out .

helpful gadgets

if you enjoy sautéing beforehand like i do, having a non - stick skillet handy makes life easier and cleanup too. a ladle ensures easy serving once it's ready .

home alternatives

no slow cooker ? no worries. you could make this recipe stovetop too a heavy pot will suffice though keep an eye on stirring more often than with a slow cooker method.

pro ingredient tips

here’s where i share my little secrets about choosing quality items :

selection secrets : always buy organic produce when possible; their flavors really shine through in dishes like this one.

quality markers : look at labels carefully organic broths tend not only taste better but may also contain fewer preservatives compared to standard brands .

storage solutions : keep dried herbs sealed tightly away from light their potency fades quickly otherwise which leads us back down flavor town not fun.

money - saving tips : buying bulk dried herbs saves cash long - term you'll always have them at hand when inspiration strikes last minute while dreaming about leftovers later tonight . . .

so there you have it a deep dive into crafting the ultimate slow cooker chicken and vegetable stew with thoughtful selections every step along the way, happy cooking friends.

expert cooking method for slow cooker chicken and vegetable stew

cooking a hearty stew in a slow cooker is not just about tossing ingredients together; it’s an art that can elevate your dish from good to great, let’s break down the essential preparation steps, professional methods, expert techniques, and success strategies to ensure you nail this recipe every time .

essential preparation steps

mise en place details
before you dive into cooking, gather all your ingredients : 2 cups of shredded leftover chicken, 2 medium carrots (sliced), 2 medium potatoes (diced), 2 chopped celery stalks, 1 diced onion, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 cup of frozen peas, and 4 cups of chicken broth, don’t forget your seasonings : olive oil, dried thyme, dried rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper, having everything ready makes the process smoother.

prep techniques
wash and peel the vegetables first, for the carrots and potatoes slice them evenly so they cook at the same rate, chop celery into small pieces for better texture, dicing onions finely helps them sauté quickly while mincing garlic ensures its flavor infuses well into your stew .

time management
set aside about 15 minutes for prep work including washing veggies and chopping them up, if you're short on time during busy weeks like i often am (you know how life gets.), consider prepping these ahead of time or using pre - cut vegetables from the store .

organization tips
label your containers if you’re prepping days in advance. keep similar ingredients together it saves confusion later on when you're trying to remember what goes where in your slow cooker.

professional cooking method

step - by - step process
start by heating up two tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, toss in those diced onions first; let them sauté for about three minutes until they turn translucent this gives off such a lovely aroma. after that add minced garlic; just give it another minute before removing from heat .

next up ? load your slow cooker with all those beautiful chopped veggies along with the shredded chicken and frozen peas, pour in four cups of chicken broth until everything is submerged trust me; it’ll help create that rich flavor we’re after.

temperature control & timing precision set your slow cooker on ‘low’ for around six hours or crank it up to ‘high’ for three hours if you're feeling impatient or have unexpected guests arriving early like i sometimes do.

during cooking time check occasionally to make sure it's bubbling away nicely but don’t lift that lid too often or else you'll lose steam.

expert techniques

professional methods if you really want to level up flavor depth even though we are talking leftovers here you can use homemade stock instead of store - bought. it'll add layers of taste that'll make everyone ask "what's your secret ?"

when adding any herbs like thyme or rosemary fresh is always best but dried works fine too. just crush those dry ones between fingers before tossing them in that releases their essential oils.

critical steps & precision points don’t forget to remove the bay leaf before serving it doesn’t belong on anyone's plate. and taste as you go; adjusting seasoning will keep flavors balanced just be careful not to oversalt at first since broths can vary .

success strategies

troubleshooting tips if after cooking it’s looking more soupy than stewy you can mix cornstarch with water during last hour as a thickening agent without needing fancy equipment. a quick whisking does wonders here .

for extra richness ? stirring heavy cream right before serving elevates this dish even further trust me on this one . ., yum.

quality assurance & final touches always taste - test right before ladling out servings a little adjustment might be needed based on salty broth variations or personal preference levels .

serve hot alongside crusty bread rolls or maybe even some rice/quinoa so nothing goes unsopped with all those delicious juices soaking through each bite.

enjoy creating this delightful comfort food that minimizes waste while maximizing flavor the perfect way to use leftover chicken while still impressing family and friends alike.

success guaranteed tips

when it comes to cooking up a storm with leftover chicken slow cooker recipes, a few insider tricks can really make your dish shine, first off, always ensure your chicken is cooked thoroughly before adding it to the mix, this not only enhances safety but also ensures texture and flavor are on point .

sautéing your aromatics like onions and garlic before tossing them into the slow cooker adds depth to the stew that you just can't get from raw ingredients, trust me; this little step makes all the difference. and if you're feeling adventurous, try experimenting with herbs like fresh basil or oregano instead of dried ones for an extra punch .

another tip ? don’t rush the timing. slow cooking isn’t just about convenience; it's about letting those flavors meld together beautifully over time, so set that timer, sit back, and let magic happen.

perfect presentation

now let's talk plating because we eat with our eyes first, right ? ladle your hearty chicken stew into deep bowls for a cozy feel, a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top can add that pop of color plus some freshness.

for garnish ideas, consider adding a drizzle of olive oil or even a dollop of sour cream right in the center before serving it’s like giving your stew a warm hug. serve alongside crusty bread rolls for dipping; they’ll soak up all those delicious juices beautifully .

and one final visual tip : use contrasting colors when presenting your meal, bright orange carrots against rich brown broth ? yes please.

storage & make - ahead

want to prepare ahead ? you’re in luck. this stew stores well in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days or freeze it for longer storage (around three months), just remember to label them so you don’t forget what’s lurking in there.

when reheating, either pop it back into the slow cooker on low until warmed through or microwave individual portions until steaming hot, if you find it thickened too much while sitting around (which happens), just stir in a splash more broth or water until you reach that perfect consistency again .

keep an eye out for any signs of spoilage; if anything smells funky or looks off after storage . ., well . ., better safe than sorry.

creative variations

let’s spice things up with creative variations. one way to adapt flavors is by adding different spices like smoked paprika or cumin a little kick never hurt anyone. for dietary modifications, swap out regular potatoes for sweet potatoes if you're looking for something healthier while still being delicious .

seasonal twists can be fun too; throw some squash into your stew during fall months or toss in fresh green beans come summer whatever floats your boat. and don't forget regional influences : think about incorporating caribbean jerk seasoning or italian herbs based on what's tickling your taste buds lately .

expert faq solutions

got questions ? i’ve got answers. some common concerns include whether using frozen vegetables will work i promise they do just fine here since they'll cook down nicely without sacrificing flavor .

if you’re worried about overcooking everything… fear not. the beauty of slow cooking means even if you leave it on high slightly longer than intended, it'll still be scrumptious rather than dry as toast (well maybe not that bad.) .

and should anything go awry during cooking ? check seasonings towards the end and adjust as necessary you might need another pinch here and there.

complete nutrition guide

feeling guilty indulging in comfort food ? no need with roughly 300 calories per serving packed full of protein from that leftover chicken along with fiber - rich veggies like carrots and celery the health benefits are undeniable.

this recipe offers balanced nutrition that's great post - workout or simply when you're looking to fill up without feeling weighed down afterward, portion guidance suggests servings around 1 - 2 cups depending on hunger levels but hey listen to what feels good inside.

so dig into this comforting bowl filled with nourishing goodness knowing each bite supports both body and soul it truly doesn’t get better than that.

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