Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken Stew

This Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken Stew is a creamy, hearty, and flavor-packed meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Tender chicken, red potatoes, carrots, and celery simmer slowly in a rich garlic parmesan broth, creating a comforting dish that fills your home with warmth and delicious aromas. With minimal prep and the slow cooker doing all the work, this recipe delivers a satisfying dinner that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 1 lb red potatoes (cut into ½” pieces)
• 2 large carrots (peeled and thinly sliced)
• 1 rib celery (chopped)
• ½ medium onion (finely chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1½ cups low sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• ⅔ cup heavy cream
• 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lb)
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
• ⅓ cup shredded Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Prepare Vegetables: Add potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic to a 4- to 6-quart slow cooker. Season with salt, parsley, Italian seasoning, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
2. Mix Broth and Cream: In a small bowl, whisk the chicken broth and cornstarch until smooth. Add the mixture to the slow cooker along with the heavy cream. Stir gently.
3. Add Chicken: Place chicken breasts on top of the vegetables and press down lightly into the liquid so they’re mostly submerged.
4. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, or until the chicken is tender and the potatoes are soft. Cooking time may vary based on your slow cooker.
5. Shred and Stir: Remove the chicken, shred or chop it, then return it to the slow cooker. Stir in the peas (if using) and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
6. Serve: Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Serve warm with crusty bread or rolls for dipping.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving Suggestions: Serve this Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken Stew with crusty French bread, garlic toast, or buttery dinner rolls to soak up the creamy broth. It also pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables.
• Add a Garnish: Sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, or fresh cracked pepper before serving for a touch of flavor and presentation.
• Storing Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen over time, making it even more delicious the next day.
• Freezing Tips: Cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe bags or containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, or reheat individual portions in the microwave until hot. Add a splash of broth or cream if the stew thickens too much after refrigeration.

Variations

1. Cheesy Garlic Stew: Add ½ cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese along with the Parmesan for an extra cheesy version.
2. Bacon Parmesan Stew: Stir in cooked, crumbled bacon before serving for a smoky, savory touch.
3. Cream Cheese Twist: Add 4 oz softened cream cheese at the end of cooking for an ultra-creamy texture.
4. Spinach and Mushroom Stew: Stir in 2 cups fresh spinach and 1 cup sautéed mushrooms for a hearty vegetable boost.
5. Spicy Garlic Stew: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a subtle heat.
6. Lemon Garlic Parmesan Stew: Stir in 1 tablespoon lemon juice and 1 teaspoon lemon zest before serving for a bright, fresh flavor.
7. Loaded Potato Stew: Add cooked bacon bits, shredded cheese, and chives on top before serving for a loaded baked potato-style twist.
8. Ranch Chicken Stew: Add 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix for a tangy ranch flavor.
9. Southwest Chicken Stew: Add black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes with green chilies for a Tex-Mex twist.
10. Broccoli Cheddar Stew: Add steamed broccoli florets and replace Parmesan with sharp cheddar for a comforting variation.
11. Low-Carb Stew: Replace potatoes with cauliflower florets to reduce carbs while keeping it hearty.
12. Herb Lover’s Stew: Add fresh thyme, rosemary, and basil to enhance the herby flavor profile.
13. Italian Style: Add sun-dried tomatoes and spinach for a rich Italian-inspired dish.
14. White Wine Cream Stew: Replace ½ cup of broth with white wine for a subtle depth of flavor.
15. Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with chickpeas or white beans and use vegetable broth for a satisfying meat-free version.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
   Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work perfectly and add extra flavor.
2. Can I cook this on high instead of low?
   Yes, cook on high for about 3–4 hours, but low and slow yields the most tender texture.
3. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
   You can use whole milk or half-and-half, but the stew will be slightly less creamy.
4. Can I make this recipe on the stovetop?
   Yes, simmer everything in a large pot over low heat for 45–60 minutes until chicken and potatoes are tender.
5. Do I have to use cornstarch?
   Cornstarch thickens the stew, but you can substitute with flour or arrowroot powder.
6. Can I add other vegetables?
   Absolutely! Try green beans, zucchini, or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.
7. Can I make it ahead of time?
   Yes, prepare and store the uncooked ingredients in the fridge overnight, then add to the slow cooker in the morning.
8. What if my stew is too thick?
   Add a bit more broth or milk until you reach your desired consistency.
9. What if it’s too thin?
   Stir in an extra teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water and cook for another 15 minutes.
10. Can I serve this with pasta or rice?
    Yes! It’s delicious served over buttered noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes.

This Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken Stew is the definition of easy comfort food. It’s rich, creamy, and loaded with wholesome ingredients that make every bite satisfying. Perfect for meal prep or family dinners, this dish saves time while delivering big on flavor. Whether you enjoy it with crusty bread or over rice, this stew will become one of your go-to slow cooker favorites.

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