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

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Enjoy a hearty and comforting meal without breaking the bank. This Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Created by

Marley Quinn

Last updated on 2025-12-28T18:58:10.958Z

This Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is the perfect meal for those looking to save both time and money. Packed with tender chicken, nutritious vegetables, and a rich broth, it’s a family favorite that warms the heart and soul.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Incredibly tender chicken that falls apart with a fork
Nutritious vegetables add both flavor and color
Effortless preparation with minimal cleanup

      

A Hearty Meal for Any Occasion

This Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a busy weekday dinner or a cozy weekend gathering. The rich flavors develop beautifully as the stew simmers, making it a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Plus, it's a fantastic way to use up vegetables that might be lingering in your fridge, ensuring nothing goes to waste while creating a delicious dish.

With its comforting aroma and vibrant colors, this stew is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. The combination of tender chicken, hearty potatoes, and sweet carrots comes together to create a dish that warms both the heart and the soul. It's an ideal choice for those chilly evenings when you crave something hearty and fulfilling.

Healthy and Nutritious

One of the best aspects of this slow cooker chicken stew is its nutritional value. Packed with protein from the chicken and an array of vitamins from the vegetables, this dish is a wholesome option for the whole family. Carrots provide a good dose of beta-carotene, while potatoes are rich in potassium, making this stew not only delicious but also beneficial for your overall health.

Moreover, using skinless chicken thighs keeps the dish lower in fat compared to other cuts, allowing you to enjoy a hearty meal without the guilt. The simplicity of the ingredients allows their natural flavors to shine, making it easy to feel good about serving this dish to your loved ones.

Slow Cooking Made Easy

One of the standout features of this recipe is its convenience. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, allowing you to focus on other tasks while dinner simmers away. Simply chop your vegetables, add the chicken and seasonings, and let the slow cooker work its magic. This hands-off approach means you can come home to a warm, delicious meal waiting for you, making it ideal for busy families.

Additionally, cleanup is a breeze. With just one pot to wash, you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time scrubbing dishes. This recipe fits seamlessly into your busy lifestyle, proving that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor or nutrition for convenience.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

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

Combine all ingredients in your slow cooker for a delicious stew.

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Chop the vegetables and mince the garlic. Place them in the slow cooker.

Add the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs on top of the vegetables.

Pour in the Broth

Add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.

Cook

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

Serve

Shred the chicken in the pot, stir, and serve hot.

Enjoy your hearty chicken stew with crusty bread or over rice.

Storage Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, this chicken stew stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply transfer the cooled stew to an airtight container and place it in the fridge. When you're ready to enjoy it again, reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to restore its creamy consistency.

For longer storage, consider freezing the stew. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, and it can last for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, and you'll have a quick meal option ready at your fingertips, perfect for those busy nights when cooking from scratch isn't feasible.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your meal, consider serving the chicken stew with a crusty loaf of bread or over a bed of fluffy rice. The bread is perfect for soaking up the savory broth, enhancing the overall dining experience. You could also offer a fresh green salad on the side to add a refreshing crunch and extra nutrients to your meal.

If you want to spice things up, serve the stew with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top. These garnishes not only add flavor but also provide a lovely visual appeal to your dish, making it even more inviting to your family and guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they may dry out more than thighs.

→ Can I freeze the stew?

Absolutely! Let it cool, then transfer to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ How can I thicken the stew?

You can add a slurry of cornstarch and water or mash some of the potatoes in the stew to thicken it.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

It pairs well with crusty bread, rice, or a simple side salad.