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: 2 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless; 4 cups chicken broth; 3 carrots, chopped; 3 potatoes, diced; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup frozen peas; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is a hearty and delicious meal that won't break the bank. Perfect for busy weeknights, it combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and savory seasonings for a comforting dish.

Created by

Chloe Bennett

Last updated on 2025-12-29T23:40:11.969Z

This Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is not only economical but also packed with flavor. It's a great way to use up leftover vegetables and makes for a filling meal that the whole family will enjoy.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A wholesome meal that's easy to prepare
Perfect for meal prepping for the week
Comforting flavors that warm you up
Can be customized with whatever veggies you have on hand

      

Cooking with a Slow Cooker

Slow cookers are a busy cook's best friend. They allow for easy meal preparation, enabling you to throw in your ingredients and let them simmer throughout the day. This method not only saves time but also enhances the flavors of your dish. The gentle heat makes meats tender and vegetables soft, creating a harmonious blend of tastes and textures. With just a few minutes of prep, you can have a delicious meal waiting for you after a long day.

One of the best aspects of using a slow cooker is the minimal cleanup involved. Most slow cookers come with a removable pot that can easily be cleaned in the sink or dishwasher. This means you can spend less time on chores and more time enjoying your hearty chicken stew. Plus, preparing your meals in advance can help you stick to a budget and avoid last-minute takeout options.

Customizing Your Stew

One of the reasons this Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is so beloved is its flexibility. You can easily customize the recipe based on your personal preferences or what you have available in your pantry. If you’re a fan of greens, consider adding kale or spinach towards the end of cooking for a nutrient boost. Alternatively, if you have leftover vegetables from previous meals, feel free to toss them in; they’ll only enhance the flavor and nutrition of the dish.

For those who prefer a bit of heat, adding some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can elevate the dish. Herbs and spices can also be adjusted according to your taste, making this stew as simple or as complex as you desire. This adaptability not only makes the recipe more enjoyable but also helps reduce food waste, making it a truly sustainable choice.

Serving Suggestions

This chicken stew is hearty enough to stand on its own, but you can elevate the meal with some simple sides. A slice of crusty bread or a warm biscuit can soak up the delicious broth, making every bite even more satisfying. If you’re looking for a lighter option, a side salad with fresh greens and a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness of the stew beautifully.

For a complete meal, consider serving the stew over a bed of cooked rice or quinoa. This not only adds an extra layer of texture but also helps to round out your meal with additional carbohydrates. No matter how you choose to serve it, this chicken stew is sure to become a family favorite, bringing warmth and comfort to your dining table.

Ingredients

For the Stew

2 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
4 cups chicken broth
3 carrots, chopped
3 potatoes, diced
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup frozen peas
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by dicing the vegetables and mincing the garlic. Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces.

Combine in Slow Cooker

In a slow cooker, combine the chicken, chicken broth, carrots, potatoes, onion, garlic, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to mix all ingredients.

Cook the Stew

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

Add Peas and Serve

In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the frozen peas. Once done, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot.

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

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover chicken stew, you’re in luck! This dish stores exceptionally well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply transfer the cooled stew into an airtight container and place it in the fridge. When you're ready to enjoy it again, just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions. This way, you can have a comforting meal ready to go during those busy days. To freeze, ladle the cooled stew into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months, allowing you to enjoy a homemade meal even when time is tight.

Nutritional Benefits

This Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Chicken thighs are a great source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. Coupled with a variety of vegetables like carrots and potatoes, this stew is loaded with vitamins and minerals, contributing to a balanced diet.

The use of fresh herbs like thyme and oregano not only adds flavor but also brings additional health benefits. These herbs are known for their antioxidant properties and can support overall well-being. By making this stew, you're not just treating your taste buds; you're also nourishing your body with wholesome ingredients.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they may be less tender than thighs.

→ How can I thicken the stew?

You can thicken the stew by mixing 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with water and stirring it in during the last hour of cooking.

→ Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Absolutely! You can freeze the stew in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

→ What vegetables can I substitute?

Feel free to use any vegetables you have on hand, such as green beans, corn, or bell peppers.