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; 1 16 ounce bag frozen mixed vegetables; 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)

Introduction to Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie Stew

When the weather turns chilly or you’ve had one of those long days, nothing beats a warm bowl of comfort food. Enter slow cooker chicken pot pie stew—the ultimate cozy dish that combines the heartiness of traditional chicken pot pie with the ease of a slow cooker. This thick, creamy stew is packed with tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and delicious seasonings, making it a family favorite.

Why is Chicken Pot Pie Stew the Ultimate Comfort Food?

Comfort food is all about evoking feelings of warmth and nostalgia. Chicken pot pie has long been beloved for its savory filling and flaky crust, but when you transform it into a stew, you create a dish that’s not only satisfying but also simple to prepare. Imagine return home to the aroma of chicken and veggies bubbling away, ready to be enjoyed with flaky buttermilk biscuits.

Studies have shown that the act of cooking at home can boost mood and reduce stress. Incorporating slow cooker chicken pot pie stew into your meal rotation means you can enjoy a hearty, homemade meal without the hassle. Plus, with wholesome ingredients, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some nutrition. Join in the growing trend of using slow cookers for easy weeknight dinners and discover how this dish can become a staple in your home!

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie Stew

Essential ingredients for your hearty stew

To create a comforting bowl of slow cooker chicken pot pie stew, you'll need a few key ingredients that bring the dish to life:

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 (16-ounce) bag frozen mixed vegetables
Spices: 1 ½ teaspoons ground black pepper, 2 teaspoons garlic salt, and 1 teaspoon celery salt add depth to the stew.

Optional ingredients to enhance flavors

Feel free to get creative! Here are some optional ingredients that can elevate your slow cooker chicken pot pie stew:

1 chicken bouillon cube: For additional savory flavor, though it’s also delicious without it.
Fresh herbs: Consider adding thyme or parsley for a burst of freshness.
Onions or garlic: Sautéing some beforehand can lend a richer flavor profile.

For more cooking tips, check out Bon Appétit’s guide on making hearty stews. Remember, experimenting can lead to delightful surprises!

Preparing Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie Stew

When the chilly weather rolls in, there's nothing quite like a warm bowl of slow cooker chicken pot pie stew to bring comfort and satisfaction. This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but is also simple to prepare. Let’s walk through the steps to create this delightful stew!

Gather and prep your ingredients

Before diving into the cooking process, it's essential to have all your ingredients ready. 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)
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

Take a moment to wash and chop the vegetables. Prepping your ingredients not only makes the cooking process smoother but also ensures that you don’t forget anything crucial!

Combine everything in the slow cooker

Now for the exciting part! Toss all your ingredients into the slow cooker. Start with the quartered potatoes, add the cubed chicken, and whisk in the condensed cream of chicken soup. It serves as the base for the stew, lending a creamy texture that’s simply irresistible. Then, add in the baby carrots and celery, sprinkle in the pepper, garlic salt, and celery salt, and include the bouillon cube if you’re using it.

Set your slow cooker and get on with your day

Once everything is combined, cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on high for about five hours. This is the perfect time to catch up on your favorite series, dive into a new book, or tackle that pile of laundry. The beauty of a slow cooker is that it allows you to prepare delicious meals without standing over the stove.

Stir in the frozen vegetables

After the initial cooking time, take a moment to stir in that bag of frozen mixed vegetables. These add a lovely burst of color and extra nutrition to your stew. Let everything cook for an additional hour on high. By this time, your kitchen will be filled with mouth-watering aromas that will make your stomach rumble!

Serve your delicious stew

When your slow cooker chicken pot pie stew is done, ladle it into bowls and serve hot. Consider pairing it with fluffy buttermilk biscuits for a complete meal that’s perfect for chilly nights. Sit back, relax, and enjoy every spoonful of this hearty creation!

This slow cooker chicken pot pie stew not only keeps well but also makes for fantastic leftovers, perfect for quick lunches through the week. Plus, with so many veggies and wholesome ingredients, you can feel good about serving this to your family! For more comforting recipes, check out resources from Allrecipes to explore more ideas.

Variations on Chicken Pot Pie Stew

Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pot Pie Stew

For a delightful twist on the classic slow cooker chicken pot pie stew, try adding mushrooms! Sauté 8 ounces of sliced button or cremini mushrooms before incorporating them into the mixture. Not only do mushrooms provide a rich, umami flavor, but they also enhance the stew's creaminess. This version pairs perfectly with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, giving your stew a gourmet touch. Discover more on the benefits of mushrooms in cooking through resources like Healthline, and boost your culinary skills!

Vegetarian Alternative to Chicken Pot Pie Stew

Craving a vegetarian option? Substitute the chicken with hearty veggies like diced potatoes, zucchini, or chickpeas, and replace the cream of chicken soup with a plant-based version. This slow cooker chicken pot pie stew transforms into a colorful medley, preserving the comforting essence while making it suitable for all diets. Explore plant-based cooking on Minimalist Baker for even more inspiration! By making this simple switch, you can delight both vegetarians and non-vegetarians at your dinner table.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Chicken Pot Pie Stew

Tips for Optimizing Flavor

To elevate the taste of your slow cooker chicken pot pie stew, try adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary during the last hour of cooking. This enhances the flavor profile beautifully. For a hint of warmth, consider a dash of paprika or cayenne pepper. Don’t forget to taste as you go; adjust your seasonings before serving for that perfect balance!

Notes on Ingredient Substitution

Feel free to get creative with your ingredients! If you’re out of chicken breast, turkey bacon or chicken ham can be great substitutes to add protein. For a lighter version, swap the cream of chicken soup with a homemade roux or a low-fat alternative. You can also replace vegetables with what you have on hand—zucchini, green beans, or even sweet potatoes work well!

Serving suggestions for Chicken Pot Pie Stew

Best sides to serve with your stew

Pairing your slow cooker chicken pot pie stew with the right sides can elevate the meal experience. Consider serving it with:

Buttermilk biscuits: Soft and fluffy, they soak up the creamy broth beautifully.
Garlic bread: A crunchy, flavorful addition that complements the stew's richness.
Steamed broccoli or green beans: These bright veggies add a pop of color and serve as a healthy contrast.

Creative ways to enjoy leftovers

Leftovers from your slow cooker chicken pot pie stew can be a delightful surprise! Try these ideas:

Chilled in a wrap: Use a tortilla for a hearty lunch.
Pasta bake: Mix with your favorite pasta for a comforting casserole.
Over rice: Pour the stew over a bed of rice or quinoa for a quick dinner.

For more serving ideas, check out Bon Appétit for creative recipes!

Time breakdown for Chicken Pot Pie Stew

Preparation time

Getting everything ready for your slow cooker chicken pot pie stew takes just about 20 minutes. It’s all about chopping, measuring, and mixing those delicious ingredients. Perfect for busy evenings!

Cooking time

Once your prep is done, let your slow cooker work its magic for a total of 6 hours. It’s a simple set-it-and-forget-it approach—ideal for a full day of activities!

Total time

In just 6 hours and 20 minutes, you’ll have a warm, comforting stew that serves up to 16 portions. Why not make a double batch for leftovers? It's great for meal prep during the week!

For more cooking times and tips, check out this helpful guide on slow cooking techniques.

Nutritional Facts for Chicken Pot Pie Stew

When it comes to comfort food, slow cooker chicken pot pie stew delivers both flavor and nutrition in every bowl. Here’s a quick breakdown of its nutritional benefits:

Calories

Each serving of this delightful stew contains approximately 256 calories, making it a hearty but not overly indulgent option for any meal.

Protein

Packed with protein, this recipe provides around 15 grams per serving, primarily from the tender chicken, helping to keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Sodium

While comforting, it's important to note that the stew contains about 986 mg of sodium. Consider pairing it with low-sodium biscuits or modifying the seasoning to better fit your dietary needs. For healthy tips on sodium intake, explore this guide.

This simple yet hearty dish is perfect for busy nights and is sure to please the whole family!

FAQ about Chicken Pot Pie Stew

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

Absolutely! Using frozen chicken in your slow cooker chicken pot pie stew is a convenient option. Just be sure to give it a bit more time to cook through, especially since frozen chicken can increase your cooking time by about an hour. Always check that the chicken is fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.

How can I make this stew healthier?

For a healthier twist on this classic stew, try these modifications:

Substitute low-sodium cream of chicken soup or make your own using healthier ingredients.
Add extra veggies like spinach or kale for a nutrient boost.
Use skinless chicken breasts or even chicken thighs for more flavor while keeping fat content lower.

What alternatives can I use for cream of chicken soup?

If you’re looking to swap out the cream of chicken soup, there are several great alternatives:

Homemade versions using chicken broth, milk, and a bit of flour can mimic the texture and flavor.
Creamy alternatives like Greek yogurt or pureed cauliflower can provide creaminess without the calories.
Consider checking out options on EatingWell for more healthy substitutes!

Embracing these tips will help customize your slow cooker chicken pot pie stew to fit your dietary needs while still being delicious. Happy cooking!

Conclusion on Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie Stew

In conclusion, this slow cooker chicken pot pie stew is a delightful and comforting meal that fits perfectly into any busy schedule. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a surefire hit for family dinners. Give it a try—your taste buds will thank you, and so will your loved ones! For more comforting dishes, check out Allrecipes.