Name: Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie Stew
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 360 min
Total time: 380 min
Ingredients: 10 medium red potatoes (quartered); 1 cup chopped celery; 1 8 ounce package baby carrots; 4 large skinless, boneless chicken breast halves (cut into cubes); 2 26 ounce cans condensed cream of chicken soup; 1 cube chicken bouillon (optional); 1.5 teaspoons ground black pepper (or to taste); 2 teaspoons garlic salt (or to taste); 1 teaspoon celery salt (or to taste); 1 16 ounce bag frozen mixed vegetables

Introduction to Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie Stew

What is Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie Stew all about?

Slow cooker chicken pot pie stew is a cozy, comforting dish that makes dinner both effortless and satisfying. Imagine savory pieces of chicken combined with hearty vegetables, all simmering in a rich creamy sauce—what’s not to love? This recipe is perfect for busy families or young professionals who want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Setting up this delightful stew is a breeze. You simply toss in your ingredients—like tender red potatoes, baby carrots, and mixed vegetables—into your slow cooker, alongside cubed chicken breast and creamy soup. Just like magic, hours later, you’ll have a dish that not only warms the heart but also fills the stomach.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can easily adapt it with whatever veggies you have on hand or save time by using rotisserie chicken. Plus, instead of a traditional pie crust, serving it with buttermilk biscuits elevates the experience, making it a family favorite. This savory delight is more than just dinner; it's a way to gather around the table and create lasting memories. Ready to dive into this fantastic recipe? Let's get started!

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie Stew

Cooking up a slow cooker chicken pot pie stew is a delightful way to warm your home and tummy. Below, I've outlined everything you need to create this comforting dish.

Essential Ingredients for the Stew

Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

10 medium red potatoes, quartered for a hearty base
4 large skinless, boneless chicken breast halves, cut into cubes
2 (26 ounce) cans of condensed cream of chicken soup, adding creaminess
1 (8 ounce) package of baby carrots, for sweetness and color
1 cup chopped celery, giving that classic stew crunch
1 cube chicken bouillon (optional), for an extra layer of flavor
1 ½ teaspoons ground black pepper, or to taste
2 teaspoons garlic salt, or to taste
1 teaspoon celery salt, or to taste
1 (16 ounce) bag of frozen mixed vegetables, bringing convenience and nutrients

Optional Extras for Flavor Enhancement

If you’re looking to elevate your slow cooker chicken pot pie stew, consider these extras:

Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch
A splash of lemon juice to brighten the flavors
Turkey bacon, finely chopped, for a smoky undertone

Feel free to mix and match based on your taste preferences! You can find more about ingredient substitutions on platforms like Food Network. Happy cooking!

Preparing Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie Stew

Making a delicious slow cooker chicken pot pie stew is a fantastic way to enjoy a hearty meal with minimal effort. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Let’s break it down step-by-step!

Gather and prep your ingredients

First things first: gather everything you need to make this comforting stew. Here’s what you’ll need:

10 medium red potatoes, quartered
4 large skinless, boneless chicken breast halves, cut into cubes
2 (26 ounce) cans condensed cream of chicken soup
1 (8 ounce) package baby carrots
1 cup chopped celery
1 cube chicken bouillon (optional, but recommended!)
1 ½ teaspoons ground black pepper, or to taste
2 teaspoons garlic salt, or to taste
1 teaspoon celery salt, or to taste
1 (16 ounce) bag frozen mixed vegetables

Prep your vegetables by washing and chopping as needed. It’s a great idea to have everything cut and ready so that cooking goes seamlessly. If you need tips on how to properly chop vegetables, you can check out this chopping guide.

Combine the base ingredients in the slow cooker

Once your ingredients are prepped, it’s time to combine them in your slow cooker. Start by layering the quartered potatoes at the bottom. Next, add the cubed chicken and pour in the two cans of cream of chicken soup. Then, toss in the baby carrots and chopped celery. Add the optional chicken bouillon for that extra boost of flavor, and sprinkle in the black pepper, garlic salt, and celery salt.

Mix everything gently using a wooden spoon or a spatula. Ensure that the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated with the soup, creating that creamy base that’ll make your stew delicious.

Add the frozen vegetables for the final touch

About an hour before serving, it’s time to give your slow cooker chicken pot pie stew a color and texture boost. Open the bag of frozen mixed vegetables (peas, corn, green beans, etc.) and stir them into the slow cooker. It’s such an easy addition and brings extra nutrition to your meal! Plus, it's a great way to sneak in even more veggies for those picky eaters.

Setting the slow cooker for perfect results

Cook your stew on high for five hours initially. During the last hour, add the frozen vegetables and let everything simmer together. The goal is to achieve perfectly tender chicken and potatoes while maintaining the creamy texture of the soup. If you're in a hurry, you can also cook it on low for 8-10 hours, which will still yield fantastic results.

How to serve the stew

When your slow cooker chicken pot pie stew is ready, ladle it into bowls and serve it hot. It pairs perfectly with flaky buttermilk biscuits! If you’re feeling adventurous, you might even sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for color. Gather around the table and enjoy; you’ll find this hearty stew cultivates warmth and togetherness, inviting everyone to dig in!

By following these straightforward steps, you’ll whip up a comforting meal that’s bound to please. Happy cooking!

Variations of Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie Stew

Substitute Proteins for a Twist

Looking to change things up? Substitute proteins in your slow cooker chicken pot pie stew. Try using shredded turkey or chicken ham for a different flavor profile, or even beef for a heartier stew! Each option provides a unique twist while keeping the dish hearty and comforting.

Adding Seasonal Vegetables

Embrace seasonal vegetables to enhance your slow cooker chicken pot pie stew! Think about adding fresh green beans in spring or squash in fall. Not only do they add vibrant color and flavor, but they also boost the nutritional value of your meal. Customize it based on what’s available at your local farmer's market for the freshest taste possible!

Feel free to get creative and experiment with these variations to create a comforting dish that suits your taste and the season. If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out resources from The Kitchn and EatingWell for tips and seasonal recipes!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie Stew

Best practices for slow cooking

To ensure your slow cooker chicken pot pie stew achieves that rich, comforting flavor, layer your ingredients thoughtfully. Start with harder vegetables like potatoes and carrots on the bottom and add chicken and softer veggies on top. Remember not to lift the lid too often; it releases heat and can extend cooking time. For even cooking, opt for uniform-sized chicken cubes to promote even tenderness.

Adjusting seasoning and consistency

As your dish nears completion, taste and adjust! You might find that a pinch more garlic salt or black pepper could elevate the flavors. If you prefer a thicker stew, simply mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir it in during the last half-hour of cooking. And if it’s not creamy enough, a splash of milk or cream can enhance richness.

Serving Suggestions for Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie Stew

Perfect Pairings to Complement the Stew

To enhance the flavors of your slow cooker chicken pot pie stew, consider serving it with some delightful sides. A light, fresh green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette perfectly balances the richness of the stew. For something warm and comforting, opt for fluffy buttermilk biscuits or homemade cheddar cornbread; both are excellent for soaking up the stew's creamy goodness. You might also enjoy pairing it with a glass of iced herbal tea or sparkling water with a splash of lemon for a refreshing twist.

Creative Serving Options

For a fun twist, serve your slow cooker chicken pot pie stew in individual bread bowls. Not only does it add a unique presentation, but it also makes for a satisfying and interactive dining experience. Another idea is to top the stew with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a burst of color and flavor. You can also garnish with crushed crackers or fried onions for an added crunch. Explore more inspiring serving ideas at sources like Food Network or Cooking Light for a wealth of options!

Time Breakdown for Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie Stew

Preparation Time

Getting started on your slow cooker chicken pot pie stew is a breeze, with just 20 minutes needed for preparation. This includes chopping the veggies, cutting the chicken, and gathering your ingredients so everything is ready to go!

Cooking Time

Once you've prepped, let your slow cooker do the work! You'll need about 6 hours of cooking time on the High setting. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a creamy, comforting stew.

Total Time

In total, the journey from kitchen prep to a steaming bowl of stew takes just 6 hours and 20 minutes. Perfect for a busy day when you want to return home to a hearty meal waiting for you. For more time-saving tips and slow cooker recipes, check out Food Network.

Nutritional Facts for Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie Stew

Calories per serving

This comforting slow cooker chicken pot pie stew is a wholesome choice for any meal, clocking in at approximately 256 calories per serving.

Key nutritional components

Packed with essential nutrients, each serving offers:

Total Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 33mg
Sodium: 986mg
Total Carbohydrates: 33g
Dietary Fiber: 4g
Total Sugars: 4g
Protein: 15g

This stew is not only delicious but also a source of protein and fiber, making it a great option to fuel your day! For more insights on nutritional needs, check out the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

FAQs about Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie Stew

Can I freeze the leftover stew?

Absolutely! This slow cooker chicken pot pie stew is perfect for freezing. Just allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bags. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

How can I make it more nutritious?

There are several ways to boost the nutrition of your stew! Consider adding:

Leafy greens: Throw in some spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for an extra dose of vitamins.
Whole grains: Serve the stew over brown rice or quinoa for added fiber.
Additional veggies: Bell peppers, zucchini, or peas can easily be added to the mix for added color and nutrients.

What sides go well with this stew?

For a delightful meal, pair your slow cooker chicken pot pie stew with classic sides like:

Buttermilk biscuits: A traditional pairing that balances the stew's creaminess.
A crisp green salad: Lightly dressed greens can cut through the richness of the stew.
Garlic bread: Perfect for soaking up every last drop of that delicious broth.

Give these options a try for a well-rounded meal!

Conclusion on Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie Stew

In summary, this slow cooker chicken pot pie stew delivers hearty comfort with minimal effort. It's perfect for busy evenings, satisfying the whole family with every creamy spoonful. Don't forget to pair it with flaky buttermilk biscuits for the ultimate cozy meal experience. Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness!