20 Hearty Chicken Stew Slow Cooker Comfort Recipes

Carmen Eldridge

April 9, 2025

Cozy up with a warm and comforting bowl of chicken stew! There’s nothing like a hearty slow cooker recipe to fill your home with mouthwatering aromas and satisfy your hunger. In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious chicken stews that are perfect for any time of year. From creamy garlic parmesan to spicy Cajun sausage, these recipes offer a variety of flavors and textures to suit every taste. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or international-inspired, we’ve got you covered. So grab your slow cooker and let’s get started on this culinary journey!

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Stew

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Stew
Warm up with this rich and satisfying stew, featuring tender chicken, garlic, and parmesan cheese in a creamy broth.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the garlic and onion in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
3. Pour in the heavy cream, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat and let stew for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Stir in the parmesan cheese until melted.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Spicy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Stew

Spicy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Stew
This hearty stew combines the bold flavors of Cajun country with spicy kick from hot sausage and chicken. A perfect one-pot meal for a chilly evening.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 Tbsp olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large bell pepper, chopped
– 2 hot sausages (Andouille or Knockwurst), sliced
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or scallions, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, bell pepper, and sausages; cook until vegetables are tender and sausages browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add chicken, Cajun seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper; cook until chicken is browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes and chicken broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with parsley or scallions, if desired.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Classic Homestyle Chicken and Vegetable Stew

Classic Homestyle Chicken and Vegetable Stew
Savor the comforting flavors of home with this hearty chicken and vegetable stew, perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe is a staple of traditional cooking, featuring tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a rich broth.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as peas, corn, and bell peppers)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onion and garlic in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
3. Add the carrots, potatoes, mixed vegetables, chicken broth, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.

Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes

Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Stew

Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Stew
Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Stew: A flavorful and aromatic stew that combines the rich flavors of Thailand with the warmth of coconut milk.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add the onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the curry paste and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the diced tomatoes, coconut milk, chicken broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
6. Return the chicken to the pot and cook until cooked through, about 20-25 minutes.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.

Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes

Herbed Lemon Chicken and Potato Stew

Herbed Lemon Chicken and Potato Stew
Brighten up a chilly evening with this vibrant and flavorful stew, featuring succulent chicken, tender potatoes, and a hint of herby freshness.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the potatoes, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to the pot. Cook for 10 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Pour in the lemon juice, chicken broth, and browned chicken. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Smoky Chipotle Chicken and Black Bean Stew

Smoky Chipotle Chicken and Black Bean Stew
Smoky Chipotle Chicken and Black Bean Stew: A hearty and flavorful stew that combines the richness of chipotle peppers with the smokiness of chicken, all wrapped up in a delicious and comforting meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups chicken broth

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tbsp of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped chipotle peppers, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 6-8 minutes.
6. Add the black beans, red bell pepper, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
7. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Mediterranean Chicken Stew with Olives and Tomatoes

Mediterranean Chicken Stew with Olives and Tomatoes
This hearty stew combines tender chicken, flavorful olives, and juicy tomatoes in a rich and aromatic broth. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a quick lunch.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as kale, spinach, and parsley)
– 1 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Add mixed greens, olives, tomatoes, diced tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
7. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Cozy Chicken and Dumpling Stew

Cozy Chicken and Dumpling Stew
Warm up with this comforting, homemade stew that’s perfect for a chilly evening. Tender chicken and fluffy dumplings simmered in a rich broth will leave you feeling cozy and satisfied.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 2 tablespoons butter

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chicken, carrots, and garlic in oil until the chicken is browned.
2. Add flour, baking powder, and salt to the pot; cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually add broth and water, whisking continuously.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes or until the stew thickens slightly.
5. Mix together dumpling ingredients (flour, baking powder, and salt). Add butter; mix until crumbly.
6. Drop small dumplings into the stew; cook an additional 10-12 minutes or until they float to the surface.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Moroccan-Inspired Chicken and Chickpea Stew

Moroccan-Inspired Chicken and Chickpea Stew
Warm up with this aromatic and flavorful Moroccan-inspired stew, featuring tender chicken and chickpeas in a richly spiced tomato-based broth. Perfect for a cozy night in!

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cups chicken broth
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken; cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and cinnamon; cook 1 minute.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, chickpeas, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or cilantro if desired.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Tuscan White Bean and Chicken Stew

Tuscan White Bean and Chicken Stew
This hearty stew is a classic Italian comfort food, perfect for a chilly evening or a satisfying meal any time of the year. With tender chicken, creamy cannellini beans, and aromatic vegetables, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Olive oil, for cooking

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add onion, carrots, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Add garlic, thyme, diced tomatoes, and cannellini beans. Stir to combine.
5. Return chicken to the pot and season with salt and pepper.
6. Simmer stew for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.

Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes

Sweet and Tangy Honey Mustard Chicken Stew

Sweet and Tangy Honey Mustard Chicken Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors, featuring tender chicken, savory vegetables, and a hint of honey mustard. Serve with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, combine honey, mustard, onion, garlic, bell pepper, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and thyme.
3. Add the chicken and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and bake for 45-50 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Loaded Chicken and Corn Chowder Stew

Loaded Chicken and Corn Chowder Stew
This comforting stew is a perfect blend of tender chicken, creamy corn, and savory spices. It’s a great way to warm up on a chilly day.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the potatoes, corn, diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return the chicken to the pot and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the stew has thickened slightly.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Indian Butter Chicken Slow Cooker Stew

Indian Butter Chicken Slow Cooker Stew
Rich and creamy, this slow cooker stew is a flavorful twist on traditional butter chicken. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 tsp garam masala
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp ground coriander
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a slow cooker, combine chicken, butter, onion, garlic, coconut milk, garam masala, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Stir in additional butter (optional) before serving. Garnish with cilantro leaves.

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high)

Bacon and Mushroom Chicken Stew

Bacon and Mushroom Chicken Stew
Rich and comforting, this stew is a perfect blend of savory flavors and tender textures. Perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy weekend dinner.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon; leave the drippings behind.
3. Add the onion, garlic, mushrooms, chicken, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and the vegetables are tender (about 10 minutes).
4. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir to combine, then bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low; let stew cook for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.

Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes

Autumn Harvest Chicken and Squash Stew

Autumn Harvest Chicken and Squash Stew
Celebrate the flavors of the season with this hearty, comforting stew that combines tender chicken, roasted squash, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a cozy autumn evening.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add the cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
5. Add the squash, broth, and cream. Bring to a boil, then transfer to the oven.
6. Simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the squash is tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Zesty Lime and Cilantro Chicken Stew

Zesty Lime and Cilantro Chicken Stew
Brighten up a chilly evening with this vibrant and flavorful stew, bursting with the zing of lime juice and the freshness of cilantro.

Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups chicken broth

Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Stir in lime juice, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
6. Add diced tomatoes and chicken broth; bring to a simmer.
7. Reduce heat to medium-low and let stew cook for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
8. Stir in chopped cilantro leaves just before serving.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

French Onion Chicken Stew with Gruyère

French Onion Chicken Stew with Gruyère
This hearty stew combines tender chicken, caramelized onions, and rich Gruyère cheese for a comforting and flavorful meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup dry white wine
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onions over medium-low heat until caramelized (about 20 minutes).
2. Add garlic, wine, broth, and chicken. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
3. Stir in Gruyère cheese until melted and well combined.
4. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

BBQ Pulled Chicken Stew with Sweet Potatoes

BBQ Pulled Chicken Stew with Sweet Potatoes
A comforting and flavorful twist on traditional stew, this recipe combines the richness of slow-cooked chicken with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes and the tanginess of BBQ sauce.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, brown the chicken in a little oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Add the sweet potatoes, BBQ sauce, chicken broth, and smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Cook for 2-1/2 hours or until the chicken is tender and falls apart easily.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours

Korean Gochujang Chicken Stew

Korean Gochujang Chicken Stew
Savor the bold flavors of Korea with this hearty and spicy stew, featuring tender chicken, sweet potatoes, and a depth of flavor from gochujang.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground ginger
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine chicken, sweet potatoes, Gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger.
2. Pour in chicken broth and water, bringing the mixture to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and sweet potatoes are tender.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.

Cooking Time: 45 minutes

Simple Rosemary and Thyme Chicken Stew

Simple Rosemary and Thyme Chicken Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines tender chicken with the aromatic flavors of rosemary and thyme, perfect for a cozy evening meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 tsp dried thyme
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chicken, rosemary, thyme, chicken broth, and water to the pot.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.

Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes

Summary

Indulge in the warmth of comfort food with these 20 delicious slow cooker chicken stew recipes. From creamy garlic parmesan to spicy Cajun sausage, and from classic homestyle vegetable stews to international-inspired dishes like Moroccan chickpea and Indian butter chicken, there’s something for every taste. Whether you’re craving something smoky and chipotle-spicy or cozy and comforting with dumplings, these slow cooker recipes are sure to become family favorites.

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