Are you ready to whip up a delicious and nutritious meal that the whole family will love? I know I am! Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Healthy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew. This dish is not only packed with flavor but also incredibly easy to make, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you need quick family dinners. Plus, it’s a fantastic alternative to those easy pasta recipes that can sometimes feel a bit heavy. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a one-pot meal, which means less cleanup!
- Perfect for meal prep and leftovers.
- Nutritious ingredients that are good for you and your family.
- Simple steps that anyone can follow.
- Great for cozy nights in or serving guests.
Ingredients
To make this Healthy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into pieces
- 1 cup potatoes, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make the Recipe
Making this stew is as easy as 1-2-3! Here’s how:
- Prep the Chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary. This will give your stew a wonderful flavor base.
- Layer the Ingredients: In your slow cooker, add the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, chopped celery, diced potatoes, and green beans. Then, place the seasoned chicken on top.
- Add the Broth: Pour the low-sodium chicken broth over everything. Drizzle with olive oil for a touch of richness.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. The longer, the better, as the flavors meld beautifully!
- Serve: Once cooked, shred the chicken right in the pot and stir everything together. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your stew turns out perfectly:
- Feel free to add any vegetables you have on hand! Zucchini, bell peppers, or even corn can be great additions.
- If you like a thicker stew, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water and stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes!
- Don’t skip the olive oil; it adds a lovely depth of flavor.
How to Serve
This Healthy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is perfect on its own, but if you want to elevate your meal, consider serving it with:
- Crusty whole-grain bread for dipping.
- A fresh green salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Over a bed of rice or quinoa for a heartier option.
- Pair it with a side of creamy garlic pasta for a delightful twist!
Make Ahead and Storage
This stew is a fantastic option for meal prep! Here’s how to store it:
- Let the stew cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.
- It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Now you have a delicious, healthy meal that’s perfect for any night of the week! Whether you’re looking for quick family dinners or just a comforting bowl of goodness, this Healthy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is sure to please. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share your experience with me!
Healthy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Ingredients
Protein
- 4 pounds Chicken Breast
Vegetables
- 1 Red Onion Red Onion
- 6 Ounces Mushrooms
- 2 Large Sweet Potatoes Sweet Potatoes
- 2 Large Russet Potatoes Russet Potatoes
- 12 Ounces Carrots
Liquids & Mixes
- 16 Ounces Water
- 1 Can Cream of Mushroom (10.75 Ounces) (98% Fat Free)
- 1 Packet Onion Gravy Mix
- ½ Teaspoon Lemon Pepper
- 1.5 Teaspoons Minced Garlic (or 3 Cloves)
- 1 Teaspoon Italian Seasoning
Instructions
- Chop the vegetables and chicken into small pieces.
- Add all ingredients into the slow cooker and mix.
- Cook on high for 4-5 hours.
