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

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This hearty and comforting chicken stew is not only budget-friendly but also incredibly easy to prepare in your slow cooker. Packed with vegetables and tender chicken, it’s a perfect meal for busy weeknights.

Created by

Perrie Lawson

Last updated on 2025-12-30T01:37:09.990Z

There's nothing quite like a warm bowl of chicken stew to comfort you after a long day. This recipe allows you to enjoy a homemade meal without breaking the bank.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and satisfying with minimal effort
Uses budget-friendly ingredients that are easy to find
Packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers

      

A Comforting Classic

Chicken stew has long been a cherished dish in many households, offering warmth and comfort during chilly evenings. This budget-friendly version utilizes chicken thighs, which are not only more affordable but also incredibly flavorful and tender when cooked slowly. The combination of vegetables adds a wholesome touch, making it a nutritious meal that satisfies both hunger and cravings.

The slow cooker simplifies the cooking process, allowing busy individuals and families to enjoy a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Simply prepare your ingredients in advance, set the slow cooker, and let it do the work while you attend to other tasks or relax at home.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This chicken stew is versatile enough to serve on any occasion, whether it's a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends. Its hearty nature means it can be the star of the meal, or it can be paired with crusty bread or rice for a more filling feast. Plus, it’s a great way to showcase seasonal vegetables, allowing you to customize the recipe based on what you have on hand.

If you're planning for a family gathering or meal prep for the week, this stew is perfect. It stores well in the refrigerator and can be frozen for later, making it a convenient option for those hectic days when cooking from scratch isn't feasible.

Nutritional Benefits

One of the standout features of this chicken stew is its nutritional profile. Packed with protein from the chicken and a variety of vitamins and minerals from the vegetables, it offers a balanced meal that supports overall health. Carrots and potatoes provide essential carbohydrates, while the garlic and herbs add not just flavor but also health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory properties.

By using fresh ingredients, you’re not only enhancing the flavor of your stew but also ensuring you’re serving up a dish that's rich in nutrients. This makes it an excellent choice for families looking to maintain a healthy diet without breaking the bank.

Ingredients

For the Stew

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

Make sure to wash and chop the vegetables before adding them to the slow cooker.

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Chop all vegetables and cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces.

Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

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

Cook the Stew

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours, until the chicken is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.

Serve

Once cooked, give the stew a good stir, taste, and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot.

This stew can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Just reheat when ready to serve.

Tips for Success

To ensure your chicken stew turns out perfectly, consider browning the chicken thighs in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker. This step enhances the flavor and adds a nice depth to the dish. Additionally, be mindful of your vegetable sizes; chopping them into uniform pieces will help them cook evenly.

Don't hesitate to experiment with the herbs and spices. If you enjoy a bit of heat, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor profile without overwhelming the dish. Fresh herbs can also be added right before serving for a burst of freshness.

Serving Suggestions

When serving your chicken stew, consider garnishing it with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor. A side of warm, crusty bread is perfect for sopping up the rich broth, making every bite even more enjoyable.

For a complete meal, pair the stew with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. The crispness of the salad will complement the hearty nature of the stew, providing a refreshing contrast in textures and flavors.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the chicken stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, gently warm it on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to loosen it up. This will help retain the stew's flavors and moisture.

For longer storage, you can freeze the stew in portions. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, and enjoy the comforting flavors all over again!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken thighs, but ensure they are fully cooked before serving.

→ How can I thicken the stew?

You can thicken the stew by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stirring it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

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

→ Can I make this in a pressure cooker?

Yes, you can make this recipe in a pressure cooker. Cook on high pressure for about 20 minutes, then allow for natural release.