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 medium carrots, sliced; 3 medium potatoes, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp dried rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Kitchen Creations

This Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is a hearty and comforting meal that's easy on the wallet. Packed with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a flavorful broth, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Created by

Ivy Richardson

Last updated on 2025-12-30T01:40:13.068Z

This Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is not only easy to make but also affordable. It's packed with wholesome ingredients that make it a family favorite. Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich and hearty flavor that warms the soul
Easy meal prep with minimal cleanup
Perfect for leftovers and meal planning

A Hearty Meal for Everyone

This Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is designed to satisfy all appetites. The combination of tender chicken, a variety of colorful vegetables, and a savory broth creates a dish that is both nutritious and delicious. It's an excellent choice for families, as it provides a well-rounded meal that can be enjoyed by both kids and adults alike.

With its rich flavors and hearty texture, this stew is perfect for chilly evenings when you crave something warm and comforting. It not only fills your stomach but also warms your heart, making it a go-to recipe for gatherings or cozy dinners at home.

Effortless Cooking with Minimal Cleanup

One of the biggest advantages of this slow cooker recipe is the ease of preparation. With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready to go without spending hours in the kitchen. The slow cooker does all the hard work for you, allowing you to focus on other tasks while your stew cooks to perfection.

Additionally, using a slow cooker means less cleanup afterward. You only need to wash the cutting board and knife, along with the slow cooker itself. This makes it a fantastic option for busy weeknights when you want a great meal without the hassle of extensive cleanup.

Perfect for Leftovers and Meal Planning

This chicken stew is not only delicious on the first day but also tastes even better the next day! The flavors meld beautifully as it sits, making it an ideal dish for meal prepping. You can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for later use.

Portioning the stew into individual containers makes it easy to grab a healthy meal on the go. Whether you’re heading to work, school, or just looking for a quick lunch at home, this stew provides the nourishment you need without the stress of cooking each day.

Ingredients

For the Stew

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
4 medium carrots, sliced
3 medium potatoes, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste

Use fresh or frozen vegetables as desired.

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Chop the vegetables and mince the garlic. Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces.

Combine in Slow Cooker

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

Cook the Stew

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

Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, taste and adjust seasonings if necessary. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious stew!

This stew can be served with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a bay leaf to the broth.

Nutritional Benefits

This Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is packed with nutritious ingredients that contribute to a balanced diet. Chicken thighs are rich in protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. The addition of carrots and potatoes provides dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals that support overall health.

Moreover, using fresh vegetables means you're getting the most nutrients possible. Incorporating a variety of produce not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the nutritional profile of your meal, making it a smart choice for health-conscious individuals.

Customizing Your Stew

Feel free to get creative with this chicken stew by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. Bell peppers, green beans, or even corn can add unique flavors and textures. Experimenting with different herbs, such as oregano or parsley, can also elevate the dish to suit your taste preferences.

If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry and stir it into the stew during the last hour of cooking. This simple adjustment can transform the consistency to your liking and add a comforting richness.

Serving Suggestions

To make your meal even more satisfying, consider serving the chicken stew with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad. The bread is perfect for dipping into the rich broth, while a salad adds a refreshing crunch that complements the warm stew.

For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro on top before serving. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds a burst of freshness that balances the hearty flavors of the stew.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken thighs. Just add an extra hour to the cooking time.

→ What vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add green beans, peas, or corn for more variety.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I freeze the stew?

Yes, this stew freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.