This Jamie Oliver Chicken Stew is a comforting, hearty dish made easily with a slow cooker. Packed with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and herbs, this stew offers deep, satisfying flavors with minimal hands-on time. Perfect for a family dinner, it’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as is or served over rice, potatoes, or crusty bread.

What is Jamie Oliver Chicken Stew?

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Stew is a classic dish that’s both nourishing and easy to make. The stew combines tender pieces of chicken with vegetables like carrots, celery, and potatoes, all slow-cooked with herbs in a rich broth. The slow cooker allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a meal that’s both flavorful and comforting.

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

Easy and Convenient: Minimal preparation; the slow cooker does the work.
Flavorful and Tender: Slow cooking makes the chicken and vegetables perfectly tender.
Versatile: Serve it with rice, crusty bread, or mashed potatoes.

Healthy and Hearty: Full of protein, vegetables, and nutrients.
Family-Friendly: Loved by both kids and adults.

Ingredients Needed to Make Jamie Oliver Chicken Stew (Slow Cooker)

4-6 Chicken Thighs (bone-in, skin removed): Adds flavor and tenderness.

2 tbsp Olive Oil: For browning the chicken (optional).
3 Large Carrots (peeled and chopped): Adds sweetness and texture.
3 Stalks of Celery (chopped): Adds flavor and depth.

2 Large Potatoes (chopped): Make the stew hearty and filling.
1 Large Onion (chopped): Adds depth to the stew.
3 Cloves of Garlic (minced): For added aroma and flavor.

4 cups Chicken Broth: Forms the base of the stew.
1 cup Canned Tomatoes (diced): Adds richness and acidity.
2 Bay Leaves: Infuses the stew with a mild, herbal flavor.

1 tsp Fresh Thyme (or ½ tsp dried): Adds earthy flavor.
Salt and Pepper (to taste): For seasoning.
Fresh Parsley (chopped, for garnish): Adds a burst of color and freshness.

Instructions to Make Jamie Oliver Chicken Stew (Slow Cooker)

Step 1. Optional – Brown the Chicken

If you’d like extra flavor, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the chicken thighs on each side for 2-3 minutes until golden. This step is optional but adds a nice depth of flavor to the stew.

Step 2. Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker

In the slow cooker, add the carrots, celery, potatoes, onion, garlic, and browned chicken thighs (or add them raw if skipping the browning step). Pour in the chicken broth and canned tomatoes, and add the bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper.

Step 3. Cook the Stew

Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The stew is ready when the chicken is tender and easily falls apart, and the vegetables are soft.

Step 4. Shred the Chicken (Optional)

If desired, remove the chicken thighs from the stew, shred the meat using two forks, and return it to the slow cooker. Discard the bones.

Step 5. Season and Serve

Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

What Goes Well With Jamie Oliver Chicken Stew

Crusty Bread – Perfect for soaking up the rich broth.

Mashed Potatoes – A creamy, comforting side.
Steamed Rice – Adds substance and absorbs the stew’s flavors.
Buttered Noodles – Complements the stew well.

Green Salad – A fresh side to balance the richness.
Roasted Vegetables – Adds an extra layer of flavor and nutrition.

Expert Tips for Making the Best Jamie Oliver Chicken Stew

For a perfect chicken stew, keep these tips in mind:

Use Bone-In Chicken – Bone-in thighs add extra flavor and richness to the stew.
Don’t Skip Browning – If time allows, browning the chicken adds depth.
Add Fresh Herbs at the End – Fresh herbs like parsley brighten up the stew before serving.

Cut Vegetables Evenly – Ensures cooking is even so each piece is tender.
Adjust Seasoning to Taste – Taste and season as needed before serving.

Easy Variations of Jamie Oliver Chicken Stew

Try these variations to customize your chicken stew:

Add Root Vegetables – Include parsnips, turnips, or sweet potatoes for extra flavor.
Use Different Herbs – Try rosemary, oregano, or basil for different flavors.
Make It Creamy – Stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk before serving.

Add a Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for heat.
Add Greens – Toss in spinach or kale during the last 10 minutes for added nutrition.

Best Practices to Store Jamie Oliver Chicken Stew

Refrigerate in an Airtight Container – Keeps fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freeze for Long-Term Storage – Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Divide into Portions Before Freezing – Makes reheating easy.
Reheat gently – Warm on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.

Best Practices to Reheat Jamie Oliver Chicken Stew

Stovetop Reheating – Reheat over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
Microwave – Heat in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
Add a Little Broth – If the stew has thickened, add a splash of broth when reheating.

How Can I Make Jamie Oliver Chicken Stew Healthier?

Use Skinless Chicken – Reduces saturated fat in the stew.
Add More Vegetables – Bulk up the stew with extra veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
Reduce Salt – Use low-sodium broth and adjust salt to taste.

Substitute Potatoes – Swap potatoes with cauliflower for a lower-carb option.
Skip the Browning Step – Browning is optional and skipping it reduces the oil needed.

Nutrition Value (per serving)

Calories: 320

Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 12g

Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 6g

FAQs

Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs in Jamie Oliver Chicken Stew?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts instead of thighs in Jamie Oliver Chicken Stew, but keep in mind that breasts can become dry if overcooked. If using chicken breasts, check for doneness around 5-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high, as they may cook faster than thighs.

How Can I Thicken Jamie Oliver Chicken Stew?

To thicken Jamie Oliver Chicken Stew, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to make a slurry. Stir it into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Alternatively, you can remove the lid for the final 30 minutes to let the excess liquid evaporate.

Can I Add Frozen Vegetables to Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Stew?

Yes, frozen vegetables can be added to Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Stew. Add them in the last 30 minutes of cooking to prevent them from becoming too soft. Peas, green beans, and corn work well for added color and flavor.

How Long Does Jamie Oliver Chicken Stew Last in the Fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, Jamie Oliver Chicken Stew will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze portions for up to 3 months and reheat as needed.

Final Words

This Jamie Oliver Chicken Stew made in the slow cooker is a cozy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for family meals and gatherings. With tender chicken and hearty vegetables in a savory broth, this stew is both nutritious and satisfying. Easy to make and full of flavor, this chicken stew is sure to become a favorite comfort food. Enjoy!