Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Name: Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 4 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, potatoes, peas); 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 won't break the bank. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and savory herbs, all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker.

Created by

Marley Quinn

Last updated on 2025-12-28T18:46:13.434Z

This stew is not only budget-friendly but also incredibly easy to make. Just toss everything into your slow cooker and let it do the work for you. Perfect for meal prepping or feeding a crowd!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A wholesome meal packed with nutrients
Easy to prepare with minimal cleanup
Perfect for leftovers that taste even better the next day

      

A Hearty Meal for Any Occasion

This Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is more than just a meal; it's a warm hug in a bowl. Whether you're coming home from a long day at work or hosting friends for a cozy dinner, this stew fits the bill perfectly. The combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs creates a delightful harmony of flavors that will please everyone at the table.

One of the best aspects of this stew is its versatility. You can easily swap in whatever vegetables you have on hand, making it an ideal dish for using up leftovers. From seasonal vegetables to pantry staples, this recipe allows you to customize it according to your taste and what you have available.

Effortless Cooking with the Slow Cooker

Busy weeknights can make it hard to put together a healthy meal, but with this slow cooker chicken stew, you can set it and forget it. Simply prepare your ingredients, throw them in the slow cooker, and let it do the work while you attend to other things. There's something wonderfully freeing about knowing that dinner will be ready when you are.

Cleanup is a breeze too. With just one pot to wash, you can enjoy more time relaxing with your family or catching up on your favorite shows. Plus, the delightful aroma wafting through your home will have everyone eagerly anticipating mealtime!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
4 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, potatoes, peas)
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste

These ingredients come together to create a flavorful and filling stew that's perfect for any day of the week.

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by chopping the onion, garlic, and mixed vegetables. Place them in the slow cooker along with the chicken thighs.

Add Seasonings

Sprinkle the thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper over the ingredients in the slow cooker.

Pour in the Broth

Pour the chicken broth over all the ingredients, ensuring everything is submerged.

Cook the Stew

Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Serve

Once cooked, shred the chicken in the pot using two forks, stir the stew, and serve warm. Enjoy!

This dish is ideal for a cozy dinner at home or to take to a potluck!

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

One of the greatest benefits of this chicken stew is that it makes excellent leftovers. After enjoying your meal, simply transfer any remaining stew into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making the leftovers even tastier than the first serving.

When you're ready to enjoy the stew again, you can reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave. If the stew has thickened too much in the fridge, simply add a splash of chicken broth to reach your desired consistency. This way, you can savor the comforting taste of your homemade stew without any fuss.

Pairing Suggestions

To elevate your dining experience, consider pairing the chicken stew with crusty bread or buttery biscuits. These sides are perfect for soaking up the rich broth and add a delightful texture contrast to the tender vegetables and chicken. A simple side salad can also complement your meal, providing a refreshing crunch that balances the hearty stew.

For a complete meal, you might also enjoy a glass of red wine or a light beer. These beverages can enhance the flavors of the stew and create a delightful dining atmosphere. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, this chicken stew is sure to be a hit!

Customizing Your Stew

Feel free to get creative with your chicken stew! You can add various vegetables such as bell peppers, green beans, or even corn to enhance the flavor and nutrition. If you're a fan of spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.

Additionally, if you're looking to make this stew heartier, you can toss in some cooked beans or lentils. These ingredients not only add protein but also make the stew even more filling, perfect for a chilly evening or when you need a little extra comfort food.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables work well in this stew and can save you prep time.

→ Can I substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used, but they may become drier than thighs.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare everything in the slow cooker the night before and cook it in the morning.