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Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken Stew

Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken Stew
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This Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken Stew is a comforting, creamy dish packed with tender chicken, fresh garlic, and a rich parmesan-infused broth. Slow cooking enhances the deep, hearty flavors, making it an ideal meal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Mild and family-friendly, it’s loaded with wholesome vegetables and protein, delivering a nourishing and satisfying bowl of warmth.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1.5 to 2 lbs chicken breasts or thighs, cut into chunks

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 3–4 fresh garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, chopped into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 medium onion, chopped

Liquids & Dairy

  • 4 cups chicken broth (preferably gluten-free)
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half and half
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Herbs & Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional for Sautéing

  • 1–2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Chop the carrots, celery, and onion into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic finely. Cut chicken breasts or thighs into chunks for quicker cooking and easier serving.
  2. Sauté Aromatics (Optional but Recommended): In a skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, celery, and carrots and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes. This step deepens the stew’s flavor but can be skipped if short on time.
  3. Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker: Transfer sautéed vegetables, chicken pieces, chicken broth, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper into the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine.
  4. Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours until the chicken is tender and flavors meld. Alternatively, cook on high for 3 to 4 hours if pressed for time.
  5. Add Cream and Parmesan: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Heat through without boiling to keep a creamy texture and prevent curdling.
  6. Final Taste and Serve: Taste the stew and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley or extra Parmesan. Serve hot and enjoy.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for best flavor and melting quality.
  • Sautéing the vegetables and garlic beforehand adds richness and depth to the stew.
  • If the stew is too thick, add more chicken broth or water during cooking to adjust consistency.
  • For a thicker stew, create a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water) and stir it in near the end of cooking.
  • Add the cream and cheese just before serving to maintain a smooth, silky texture.
  • Frozen chicken can be used but increase cooking time to ensure it’s fully cooked.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker, garlic parmesan chicken stew, creamy chicken stew, comforting stew, hearty chicken recipe, family-friendly dinner, slow cooker chicken

Find it online: https://juliaglam.com/slow-cooker-garlic-parmesan-chicken-stew/