Description

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

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 seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.