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- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs - 4 medium-sized carrots, sliced - 3 medium potatoes, cubed - 1 large onion, diced - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth - 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves - 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped - 1 bay leaf - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 cup frozen peas - 2 tablespoons olive oil - Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish To make this rustic chicken stew, you need simple, fresh ingredients. The chicken thighs give great flavor and stay moist. Carrots and potatoes add heartiness to the dish. The onion and garlic give depth and aroma. Fresh thyme and rosemary bring a lovely herb taste. A bay leaf adds a subtle hint of earthiness. The low-sodium chicken broth ties everything together. It keeps the stew light yet flavorful. Frozen peas add a pop of color and sweetness at the end. Olive oil helps to sear the chicken, enhancing its flavor. You can garnish the stew with fresh parsley for a nice touch. This dish is not only hearty but also very easy to make. The ingredients are common and can be found at any grocery store. Each item plays an important role in creating a warm, comforting meal. Start by seasoning the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. This makes the chicken tasty. Next, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken thighs until they turn golden brown. This takes about 4-5 minutes on each side. Once done, transfer the chicken to the slow cooker. In the same skillet, add the diced onions. Cook them until they are clear, which takes about 3 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. You want that nice garlic smell! Once ready, transfer the onions and garlic to the slow cooker. Layer them over the chicken for added flavor. Now, add sliced carrots and cubed potatoes into the slow cooker. These veggies add color and nutrients. Pour in the chicken broth, covering the chicken and vegetables. Next, sprinkle fresh thyme and rosemary on top. Add the bay leaf, too. Stir gently to mix everything, ensuring the chicken is submerged in the broth. Cover the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be fully cooked and tender. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the frozen peas. They add a nice pop of color and sweetness. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. When ready, remove the bay leaf. You can shred the chicken right in the slow cooker for a rustic feel! Best Practices for Searing Chicken Searing the chicken is key for flavor. Start by heating olive oil in your skillet. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken thighs. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden. This step locks in juices and adds a nice crust. Transfer the chicken to your slow cooker for the next steps. Importance of Layering Ingredients Layering is essential in this stew. After the chicken, add the onions and garlic from the skillet. They bring depth to the dish. Then, add carrots and potatoes on top. This helps every ingredient cook evenly and blend flavors well. How to Thicken the Stew If you want a thicker stew, you can mash some of the potatoes. Stir them into the broth. Another method is to mix a little cornstarch with water. Add this mixture to the stew and let it cook a bit longer. Modifying Seasoning to Taste Always taste your stew before serving. If it needs more flavor, add salt and pepper. Fresh herbs can also enhance the taste. You can add more thyme or rosemary based on your liking. Serving Suggestions and Garnish Ideas When serving, ladle the stew into rustic bowls. A sprinkle of fresh parsley makes it look great. It adds color and a fresh taste. Pairing with Side Dishes This stew pairs well with crusty bread. It’s perfect for dipping into the rich broth. A simple green salad can also complement the meal nicely. {{image_2}} You can easily change up this stew by using different proteins. For example, chicken breasts are a great option. They cook in the same way as thighs but have less fat. Turkey also works well and gives a nice twist to the dish. You can swap out the vegetables too. Sweet potatoes add a hint of sweetness. They cook down nicely and blend well with the broth. Green beans are another great choice. They add a nice crunch and color to your stew. To boost the flavor, consider adding wine or tomato paste. A splash of white wine adds depth and richness. Tomato paste brings a lovely acidity and helps thicken the stew. Both options can transform your dish into something special. Spices can also enhance the flavor. Paprika adds a subtle smokiness, while cumin brings warmth. A small amount can make a big difference in taste. If you want to make this stew gluten-free, use gluten-free broth. This simple swap keeps the dish safe for those with gluten issues. For a dairy-free option, this stew is already perfect. Just skip any dairy in your garnish. If you're looking for vegan-friendly alternatives, replace the chicken with chickpeas or lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. This keeps the stew hearty and delicious without meat. To keep your Slow Cooker Rustic Chicken Stew fresh, store leftovers well. Use an airtight container. This helps keep flavors strong. Make sure to cool the stew to room temperature before sealing it. - Place the stew in an airtight container. - Refrigerate it within two hours of cooking. - Consume it within 3-4 days for the best taste. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option. - Cool the stew completely. - Use freezer-safe bags or containers. - Label with the date before freezing. - It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you are ready to eat the stew, reheating is easy. The best method is to use the stove. This helps keep the stew thick and tasty. - Pour the stew into a pot. - Heat over medium heat, stirring often. - Make sure it warms evenly. You can also use the microwave if you are in a hurry. - Transfer the stew to a microwave-safe bowl. - Cover it loosely with a lid or plastic wrap. - Heat in short bursts, stirring in between until hot. To keep the flavor and texture, avoid boiling it. This can make the chicken tough. Always taste before serving. Adjust the seasoning if needed. Enjoy your hearty stew! You can tell when chicken is done by checking its color and texture. Properly cooked chicken should be white and firm. You can also use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). This ensures it is safe to eat. If the juices run clear, the chicken is likely ready. Yes, you can prepare this stew ahead of time. Cook it in your slow cooker and let it cool. Store the stew in an airtight container. It lasts about three days in the fridge. For longer storage, freeze it for up to three months. Just thaw before reheating. This stew pairs well with many sides. Here are some great options: - Crusty bread for dipping - A fresh garden salad - Mashed potatoes for extra comfort - Rice or quinoa for a healthy twist These sides balance the stew’s rich flavors. You can easily adapt this recipe for stovetop cooking. Start by searing the chicken in a large pot. Then, add the onions and garlic, just like in the slow cooker. Next, add the vegetables and broth. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat. Let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes. Make sure the chicken is cooked through before serving. This blog post covered every step for making a delicious Slow Cooker Rustic Chicken Stew. You learned about the key ingredients, from tender chicken to fresh vegetables and herbs. I shared tips to boost flavor and ideas for variations, catering to different diets. Cooking this stew is simple and rewarding. So, roll up your sleeves and enjoy preparing this hearty meal. With care, you will make a dish that warms the soul. Happy cooking!

Slow Cooker Rustic Chicken Stew

Warm up your mealtime with this Slow Cooker Rustic Chicken Stew that's packed with flavor and comfort! Made with tender chicken thighs, hearty vegetables, and aromatic herbs, this easy recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner. Just set it and forget it while your slow cooker works its magic. Discover the full recipe and create a dish that'll impress everyone at the table! Click to explore more! #SlowCooker #ChickenStew #ComfortFood #HealthyRecipes
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Ingredients
  

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs

4 medium-sized carrots, sliced

3 medium potatoes, cubed

1 large onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves

1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped

1 bay leaf

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup frozen peas

2 tablespoons olive oil

Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

Start by seasoning the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sear the chicken thighs until golden brown on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Transfer to the slow cooker.

    In the same skillet, add diced onions and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute.

      Transfer onions and garlic to the slow cooker, layering them over the chicken.

        Add the sliced carrots and cubed potatoes into the slow cooker.

          Pour in the chicken broth, then sprinkle thyme, rosemary, and add the bay leaf on top. Stir gently to combine, ensuring that the chicken is submerged in the liquid.

            Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

              About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the frozen peas. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

                Once ready, remove the bay leaf and shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker, if desired, to enhance the rustic feel of the stew.

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 7 hours | Servings: 6

                    - Presentation Tips: Ladle the stew into rustic bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve with crusty bread on the side for dipping!