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Crockpot Chicken Stew

This hearty crockpot chicken stew combines tender chicken thighs, sweet carrots, and creamy potatoes simmered in savory broth and herbs. The slow cooking method results in a fragrant, melt-in-your-mouth dish with a thick, comforting texture. It's an easy, nourishing meal that feels like a warm hug after a busy day.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 6 minutes
Total Time 6 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Homestyle
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs preferably organic for richer flavor
  • 3 large carrots peeled and chopped into chunks
  • 3 medium potatoes Yukon Gold, peeled and diced
  • 1 large onion diced
  • 4 cups chicken broth low-sodium preferred
  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • to taste salt and pepper adjust to preference
  • 1 dash smoked paprika optional, for depth
  • 1 splash lemon juice optional, for brightness

Equipment

  • Large crockpot
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. Start by chopping the onion into small, fragrant pieces and set aside. Peel the carrots and potatoes, then cut them into uniform chunks for even cooking. Prepare the chicken thighs by trimming excess fat and cutting into large pieces.
  2. Season the chicken pieces lightly with salt and pepper. If you like, give them a quick sear in a hot skillet for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden, which adds extra flavor, then transfer to the crockpot.
  3. Layer the chopped vegetables—onions, carrots, and potatoes—on top of the chicken in the crockpot. Sprinkle the fresh thyme over everything, and add a dash of smoked paprika if using.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth until it just covers the ingredients. This liquid will create a flavorful, steaming environment for the stew to develop its rich, tender texture.
  5. Cover the crockpot with the lid and set it to low. Let it cook gently for 6 to 8 hours, until the chicken is falling apart and the vegetables are tender.
  6. Once cooked, check the tenderness of the chicken; it should easily pull apart. Taste the broth and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. For a bright touch, squeeze in a splash of lemon juice.
  7. Gently stir the stew to combine the flavors and serve hot in bowls. This dish has a thick, hearty consistency with fragrant herbs and melt-in-your-mouth chicken, perfect for cozy evenings.

Notes

For an extra depth of flavor, consider browning the chicken before adding it to the crockpot. You can also customize by adding other root vegetables or herbs based on what you have on hand.