Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Name: Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 3 medium carrots, sliced; 2 medium potatoes, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is a hearty and comforting meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with tender chicken, vegetables, and rich flavors, it's an affordable dish that the whole family will love.

Created by

Elodie Brooks

Last updated on 2025-12-28T21:04:15.956Z

This budget-friendly chicken stew is a go-to recipe for families looking to save time and money. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you carry on with your day.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Tender chicken that falls apart with a fork
Versatile recipe that allows for seasonal vegetables
Convenient one-pot meal with minimal cleanup

      

The Benefits of Using a Slow Cooker

Slow cookers are a game-changer for busy individuals and families. They allow you to prepare meals with minimal effort while maximizing flavor. By cooking ingredients at low temperatures over several hours, the slow cooker melds flavors beautifully, resulting in a rich and aromatic dish. Simply set it and forget it, allowing you to focus on your day while dinner cooks itself.

Another significant advantage of slow cookers is their energy efficiency. Compared to traditional ovens or stovetops, slow cookers use less electricity, making them an eco-friendly option. This not only helps you save on energy bills but also reduces your carbon footprint. Cooking in a slow cooker is an easy way to make hearty meals without breaking the bank.

Additionally, slow cookers are incredibly versatile. You can use them to prepare a wide variety of dishes, from stews and soups to desserts and dips. This Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is just one of many recipes you can enjoy, allowing you to experiment with different ingredients and flavors based on what you have on hand.

Tips for Perfecting Your Chicken Stew

To elevate your chicken stew, consider adding seasonal vegetables. Ingredients like zucchini, bell peppers, or even green beans can add color and nutrition. This recipe is forgiving, allowing you to swap out vegetables based on availability and personal preference. Just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is tender and flavorful.

For added depth, you can enhance the broth with a splash of white wine or a tablespoon of tomato paste. These additions will bring a richer flavor profile to your stew. Don't hesitate to experiment with herbs and spices, too; a pinch of paprika or a dash of cayenne can introduce a delightful kick that transforms the dish.

Lastly, if you have leftovers, they can be stored in the refrigerator for several days or frozen for future meals. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep, ensuring you have delicious, homemade food ready to enjoy whenever you need it.

Serving Suggestions

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
3 medium carrots, sliced
2 medium potatoes, diced
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables!

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

In a slow cooker, place the chicken thighs, carrots, potatoes, onion, and garlic.

Add Liquids and Seasonings

Pour in the chicken broth, then add thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine.

Cook the Stew

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.

Shred the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the slow cooker, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot. Stir to combine.

Serve and Enjoy

ladle the stew into bowls and enjoy it hot!

This stew is even better the next day!

Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Stew

Chicken stew is not only comforting but also packed with nutrients. Chicken thighs are a good source of protein and essential vitamins like B6 and B12, which support metabolism and energy levels. The vegetables in the stew provide a wealth of vitamins and minerals, contributing to a well-rounded meal that can support a healthy lifestyle.

Using fresh vegetables allows you to incorporate a variety of nutrients into your diet. Carrots provide beta-carotene, which is beneficial for eye health, while potatoes are rich in potassium, essential for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels. Each ingredient adds its unique benefits, making this stew a nutritious option for the whole family.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To store leftover chicken stew, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Properly stored, it can last in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in portion-sized containers. This makes it easy to defrost and reheat just the amount you need for a quick meal.

When reheating, you can use the stovetop or microwave. If using the stovetop, gently heat it over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. For microwave reheating, place a portion in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it with a microwave-safe lid, and heat in short intervals, stirring in between. This prevents uneven heating and ensures that every bite is delicious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but they may become dry if overcooked.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add green beans, corn, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.

→ Can I make this stew in a pressure cooker?

Yes, you can cook it on high pressure for about 30 minutes, then let the pressure release naturally.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.