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: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 4 cups chicken broth; 3 medium carrots, chopped; 2 medium potatoes, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp dried rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup frozen peas

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Enjoy a hearty and flavorful meal without breaking the bank with this Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Stew.

Created by

Marley Quinn

Last updated on 2025-12-28T18:28:12.755Z

This Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead. With tender chicken and hearty vegetables simmered to perfection, it's a comforting dish that won't strain your budget.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Affordable ingredients that are easy to find
Tender, juicy chicken cooked to perfection
A wholesome and filling meal for the whole family
Minimal prep time for a stress-free cooking experience

      

The Perfect Family Meal

This Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is more than just an economical meal; it's the perfect family gathering dish. With a combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a rich broth, it brings everyone to the table for a comforting and satisfying experience. The slow cooking method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making every bite a delight.

One of the best aspects of this stew is its versatility. You can easily swap out vegetables based on what you have in your pantry or garden. Consider adding green beans, corn, or bell peppers for a twist. This adaptability ensures that you can enjoy this dish throughout the seasons, utilizing fresh produce when available.

Nutritional Benefits

Not only is this chicken stew budget-friendly, but it is also packed with nutrients. Chicken thighs provide a good source of protein and essential vitamins, while the assortment of vegetables adds fiber, vitamins, and minerals to your meal. The inclusion of carrots and potatoes not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to a wholesome and satisfying dish that keeps you full for hours.

Moreover, using a slow cooker means you retain the nutritional integrity of the ingredients. Slow cooking helps to preserve vitamins that might otherwise be lost during high-heat cooking methods. This makes your stew not just tasty, but also a healthful option for you and your loved ones.

Easy Meal Prep

One of the standout features of this recipe is its minimal prep time. With just a few simple steps, you can have a complete meal ready to cook while you go about your day. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or when you have a lot on your plate. Simply chop your ingredients, load them into the slow cooker, and let it do the work for you.

Additionally, this stew is perfect for meal prep. You can make a large batch and store leftovers in the fridge or freezer for quick meals later in the week. Reheating is a breeze, and the flavors only get better with time, making it a convenient and time-saving option for busy families.

Ingredients

For the Stew

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
4 cups chicken broth
3 medium carrots, chopped
2 medium potatoes, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup frozen peas

Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand!

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Chop the carrots, potatoes, onion, and garlic. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces if desired.

Load the Slow Cooker

Place the chicken, carrots, potatoes, onion, and garlic into the slow cooker. Sprinkle with thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.

Add Broth and Cook

Pour the chicken broth over the ingredients in the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours.

Add Peas and Serve

About 30 minutes before serving, add the frozen peas to the stew. Stir and let cook until heated through. Adjust seasonings if necessary.

Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice.

Serving Suggestions

This Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is delightful on its own, but you can elevate your meal by pairing it with crusty bread or homemade biscuits. The bread will soak up the delicious broth, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to each bite. For a more complete meal, serve the stew alongside a fresh green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette.

If you wish to add a bit of zing, consider topping the stew with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving. This simple addition can brighten the flavors and make the dish even more inviting.

Storage Tips

Leftovers from this chicken stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. If you want to keep it for a longer duration, consider freezing individual portions. This stew freezes well and can last for 2-3 months in the freezer, making it a great option for future meals.

When reheating, you may want to add a splash of chicken broth or water to restore the original consistency. This will help the stew regain its creamy texture and ensure that it remains as delicious as the first time you served it.

Customization Ideas

Feel free to get creative with this recipe by adding your favorite spices or adjusting the vegetables to suit your taste. A dash of hot sauce can introduce a spicy kick, while a tablespoon of soy sauce can add depth to the flavor profile. Experimenting with different herbs, such as basil or oregano, can also help personalize your stew.

For a heartier version, you could add beans or lentils, which not only enhance the protein content but also make the stew even more filling. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe a wonderful canvas for your culinary creativity.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast can be used, but it may require less cooking time.

→ Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you prefer or have on hand.

→ Is this stew freezer-friendly?

Yes, this stew freezes well for up to 3 months. Just reheat before serving.

→ How can I thicken the stew?

You can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking.