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: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 cups carrots, chopped; 2 cups potatoes, diced; 1 cup celery, chopped; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is the perfect meal for those looking to feed a family without breaking the bank. Packed with hearty vegetables and tender chicken, this stew is both nutritious and delicious.

Created by

Daisy Webb

Last updated on 2025-12-29T23:28:16.469Z

This chicken stew is not only budget-friendly but also incredibly easy to make. Simply throw all the ingredients into your slow cooker, and let it do the work for you. Perfect for busy weeknights!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and filling, perfect for a family meal
Budget-friendly ingredients that won't break the bank
Easily customizable with your favorite vegetables

      

A Hearty Family Meal

This Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is designed with family meals in mind. It seamlessly combines tender chicken with a variety of wholesome vegetables, creating a dish that is both satisfying and comforting. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a rich, hearty stew that everyone will love. Whether it's a chilly evening or a busy weeknight, this meal is sure to bring warmth to your dining table.

Moreover, the stew is not only delicious but also highly nutritious. Packed with vitamins from the carrots, celery, and potatoes, it provides a well-rounded meal that can help you and your loved ones stay healthy. Enjoying a bowl of this stew can offer a sense of comfort while also supporting your family's nutritional needs.

Customizable Ingredients

One of the best aspects of this chicken stew is its versatility. You can easily customize the recipe to fit your family's tastes or to utilize whatever vegetables you have on hand. Consider adding bell peppers for a touch of sweetness, green beans for added crunch, or even sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to create a unique dish each time you prepare it.

Additionally, you can experiment with various herbs and spices to elevate the flavor even further. If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes. For a Mediterranean twist, throw in some olives or sun-dried tomatoes. This adaptability means that your family will never tire of this comforting stew.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This slow cooker chicken stew is an excellent option for meal prep enthusiasts. Cooking in bulk not only saves you time during the week but also ensures that you have a wholesome meal ready to go whenever hunger strikes. Simply prepare a large batch, portion it out into individual servings, and store them in the refrigerator or freezer for quick, convenient meals.

When stored properly in airtight containers, this stew can last up to three days in the fridge and up to three months in the freezer. Reheating it is a breeze; just warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. This means you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal without the hassle of cooking every day.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this comforting stew.

Ingredients

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups carrots, chopped
2 cups potatoes, diced
1 cup celery, chopped
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped and ready before starting!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your slow cooker chicken stew.

Prepare the Chicken

In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sear the chicken thighs for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Transfer to the slow cooker.

Add Vegetables and Seasoning

Add the chopped onions, carrots, potatoes, celery, and garlic to the slow cooker. Sprinkle the dried thyme and rosemary over the top, and season with salt and pepper.

Pour in the Broth

Pour the chicken broth over the ingredients in the slow cooker, ensuring everything is covered.

Cook

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

Serve

Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and stir it back into the stew. Adjust seasoning if necessary and serve hot.

Enjoy your warm and hearty chicken stew with a side of crusty bread!

Storage Tips

To ensure the longevity of your Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Stew, proper storage is key. After cooking, allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. This will help to prevent condensation and maintain the stew's quality. If you're planning to freeze some portions, consider using freezer-safe bags for a space-efficient solution.

When reheating, always ensure that the stew is heated thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Stirring occasionally while reheating can help achieve an even temperature throughout. Remember that the texture of the vegetables may change slightly after freezing, but the flavors will remain just as delicious.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance your dining experience, consider serving this chicken stew with crusty bread or warm rolls. The bread is perfect for dipping and adds an extra layer of satisfaction to your meal. Alternatively, a fresh green salad on the side can provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty stew, creating a balanced dinner.

For those who enjoy a bit of spice, adding a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro just before serving can elevate the flavors even more. Don’t hesitate to get creative with toppings such as grated cheese or a dollop of sour cream for added richness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast can be used, but it may become drier compared to thighs.

→ How long can leftovers be stored?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this stew in a regular pot instead of a slow cooker?

Yes, you can simmer it on low heat on the stove for about 1.5 to 2 hours.

→ What can I serve with this chicken stew?

This stew pairs well with crusty bread, rice, or even a side salad.