This hearty and comforting chicken stew is perfect for chilly evenings. With tender chicken, a medley of vegetables, and a flavorful broth, it's a meal that warms you from the inside out. The slow cooker does all the work, making it an easy and convenient dish for busy days.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1½ pounds (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces

• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 bay leaf

• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped

• 3 medium carrots, peeled and chopped

• 2 medium russet potatoes, peeled and chopped into small bite-sized pieces

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth

• 1 cup milk (or dairy-free alternative)

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch or arrowroot powder

• 1¼ cups frozen peas

Directions

1. Brown the Chicken: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then brown them in the skillet until they're no longer pink. Transfer the browned chicken to the slow cooker.

2. Prepare the Stew Base: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, carrots, and potatoes. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Transfer the sautéed vegetables to the slow cooker.

3. Add Seasonings and Broth: To the slow cooker, add the dried thyme, dried rosemary, bay leaf, chicken broth, and peas. Stir to combine all the ingredients.

4. Cook the Stew: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.

5. Thicken the Stew: In a small bowl, whisk together the milk and cornstarch (or arrowroot powder) until smooth. About 30 minutes before serving, stir this mixture into the stew to thicken the broth.

6. Final Touches: Remove the bay leaf. Taste the stew and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: Approximately 350 kcal

• Protein: 30g

• Carbohydrates: 30g

• Fat: 12g

• Saturated Fat: 3g

• Cholesterol: 90mg

• Sodium: 700mg

• Fiber: 4g

• Sugar: 6g