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 carrots, sliced; 3 potatoes, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz); 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, comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with vegetables and tender chicken, it's a wholesome meal that won’t break the bank.

Created by

Marley Quinn

Last updated on 2025-12-28T18:52:12.420Z

This chicken stew is a family favorite that you can make with minimal effort. Simply toss your ingredients into the slow cooker and let it do the work!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Affordable ingredients that won't strain your budget
Easy preparation with minimal cleanup
Rich flavors that develop over time in the slow cooker
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers

      

A Hearty Meal on a Budget

Eating well doesn’t have to be expensive. This Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is a perfect example of how you can create a wholesome meal without stretching your finances. With simple ingredients like chicken thighs and seasonal vegetables, you can whip up a delicious dish that will satisfy your family’s hunger without breaking the bank.

Slow cookers are a fantastic tool for creating budget-friendly meals. They allow you to use less expensive cuts of meat, which become tender and flavorful through the long cooking process. This stew is not only budget-conscious but also a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your family's diet, making it a nutritious option for everyone.

Effortless Cooking Experience

One of the biggest advantages of this slow cooker chicken stew is how easy it is to prepare. With just a bit of chopping and minimal prep work, you can have everything in the slow cooker in under 15 minutes. This means you can spend more time doing what you love and less time in the kitchen, making it a perfect dish for busy weeknights.

The slow cooking process allows the ingredients to meld together, creating a rich and comforting flavor profile. You’ll appreciate the delightful aroma that fills your home as the stew cooks. Plus, with easy cleanup, you’ll have more time to enjoy your meal and relax with your loved ones.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This chicken stew is not only delicious but also an excellent option for meal prep. Make a large batch and portion it out for lunches or dinners throughout the week. The flavors only improve when stored, making it a convenient choice for those busy days when you don’t have time to cook.

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days or frozen for longer storage. Just reheat and enjoy a comforting meal that's ready in minutes. This makes it easier to stick to your healthy eating goals while still enjoying tasty, home-cooked meals.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
4 carrots, sliced
3 potatoes, diced
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste

Gather all your ingredients before starting for an efficient cooking experience.

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Chop all vegetables and mince the garlic. This will help speed up the cooking process.

Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Add the chicken, carrots, potatoes, onion, garlic, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.

Cook the Stew

Set your slow cooker to low and cook for 6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.

Shred Chicken

Once cooked, shred the chicken in the stew using two forks and stir to combine.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal.

Enjoy your comforting chicken stew!

Customizing Your Stew

One of the best things about this slow cooker chicken stew is how versatile it is. Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. Green beans, peas, or bell peppers can easily be added for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the taste to your liking.

If you're looking for a little heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce. Alternatively, for a richer flavor, you can sauté the onions and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker. These small adjustments can elevate your stew and make it uniquely yours.

Serving Suggestions

This chicken stew is hearty enough to be enjoyed on its own, but serving it with crusty bread or over a bed of rice can transform it into a complete meal. The bread is perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth, while rice adds a nice texture and additional carbohydrates to keep you full.

For a lighter option, consider serving the stew alongside a fresh green salad. A simple vinaigrette can balance the richness of the stew, making for a delightful dining experience. Pairing it with a glass of your favorite beverage can also elevate your meal, making it a cozy night in.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken thighs. Just extend the cooking time by an hour.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add vegetables like peas, green beans, or bell peppers based on your preference.

→ How long will leftovers last?

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

→ Can I make this stew in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook.