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: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 4 cups chopped vegetables (carrots, potatoes, celery, onion); 2 cups chicken broth; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp dried rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is the perfect comforting dish for any day of the week. Packed with wholesome ingredients and bursting with flavor, it's an easy way to feed the whole family without breaking the bank.

Created by

Jenna Rowland

Last updated on 2025-12-28T19:52:09.958Z

This hearty chicken stew is not only budget-friendly but also a family favorite. Perfect for chilly evenings, it combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a rich broth that will warm your soul.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Simple ingredients that won't break the bank
Hands-off cooking leaves you free to enjoy your day
A delicious, hearty meal that the whole family will love

      

A Comforting Classic

There's something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of chicken stew. This Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Stew embodies all the qualities of a classic dish, offering a rich, savory flavor that soothes the soul. With tender chicken thighs and an assortment of hearty vegetables, this stew is not just filling but also nutritious. It's perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you crave a hearty meal that brings a smile to the table.

The beauty of this slow cooker recipe lies in its simplicity. With minimal prep time and a few basic ingredients, you can create a dish that feels like a labor of love. As it simmers throughout the day, your home will be filled with mouthwatering aromas, making it hard to resist diving in as soon as it's ready.

Versatile and Adaptable

One of the standout features of this chicken stew is its versatility. You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand, making it a perfect recipe for using up leftovers. Want to add some green beans or corn? Go for it! This adaptability means you can keep this dish fresh and exciting each time you make it, ensuring it becomes a staple in your weekly meal rotation.

Additionally, if you’re looking to add more flavor, feel free to experiment with different herbs or spices. A pinch of paprika or a dash of cayenne can bring an extra kick, while fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can brighten the dish just before serving. The possibilities are endless!

Perfect for Meal Prep

Meal prepping can save you time and stress during the week, and this Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is an ideal candidate for batch cooking. You can easily prepare a large batch and store it in the refrigerator or freezer for quick meals throughout the week. Simply reheat portions as needed, and you have a satisfying meal ready in minutes.

Not only does this stew hold up well in the fridge, but it also tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld together. Serve it over rice, with crusty bread, or on its own for a nutritious and easy dinner option that the whole family will appreciate.

Ingredients

For the Stew

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
4 cups chopped vegetables (carrots, potatoes, celery, onion)
2 cups chicken broth
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil

Make sure to chop the vegetables into even pieces for uniform cooking.

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Combine in Slow Cooker

Transfer the sautéed garlic to the slow cooker and add chicken, chopped vegetables, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.

Cook the Stew

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

Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and stir back into the stew. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy your hearty meal!

This stew can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for later use.

Storing and Reheating Tips

To ensure your Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Stew stays fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. This stew can be frozen for up to three months, making it a convenient option for future meals.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen stew, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. You can warm it up on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. If you find the stew has thickened too much in the fridge, just add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty chicken stew is delicious on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal. Consider serving it with a slice of homemade crusty bread or warm biscuits to soak up the flavorful broth. A light side salad can also complement the richness of the stew, adding a refreshing crunch to your meal.

For those who enjoy a little spice, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can add an exciting kick at the table. Don't forget to garnish your stew with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme just before serving for an extra burst of flavor and a beautiful presentation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken thighs; just increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add any vegetables you prefer, such as bell peppers, green beans, or peas.

→ Can I make this in a pressure cooker?

Absolutely! You can cook it on high pressure for about 30 minutes.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.