Savory Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken Stew for Cozy Nights
When the temperatures drop and the days get shorter, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of a delicious stew simmering in the slow cooker to lift your spirits. On one such crisp evening, I decided to experiment with all my favorite ingredientsโa splash of garlic, a dollop of butter, and tender chicken thighs. The result? A Savory Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken Stew that’s become a cherished staple in my home.
With its velvety broth enveloping creamy cannellini beans and sprightly herbs, this dish strikes the perfect balance between comfort and nourishment. The best part? You can toss everything into the slow cooker with minimal prep, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day. Perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends, this hearty stew is sure to impress and satisfy even the pickiest eaters. So grab your slow cooker, and letโs bring warmth to your table with this delightful recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Savory Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken Stew
Comforting Simplicity: This recipe requires minimal prep, making it a breeze for anyone to whip up on a busy night.
Hearty & Nourishing: Packed with tender chicken thighs and creamy cannellini beans, every bite is a delight.
Deliciously Customizable: Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies or swap in different beans based on what you have on hand.
Aromatic Appeal: The enticing aroma of garlic and butter filling your kitchen is simply irresistible.
Crowd-Pleasing View: Perfect for gatherings, itโs sure to wow your guests and leave them asking for seconds!
Try it out and pair it with some crusty bread for a complete meal!
Savory Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken Stew Ingredients
For the Stew Base
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs โ The primary protein source; can substitute with chicken breasts for a leaner option.
- Cannellini Beans โ Adds creaminess and fiber; substitute with navy beans or great northern beans if desired.
- Unsalted Butter โ Provides richness and depth; use olive oil or ghee for a dairy-free alternative.
- Garlic โ Essential for flavor; fresh garlic is recommended for the best taste.
- Shallot โ For mild, sweet onion flavor; could replace with yellow onion or leeks.
- Lemon Juice โ Introduces acidity and brightness; lime juice can be used as an alternative.
- Kosher Salt โ Enhances flavors; adjust to taste.
- Black Pepper โ Adds a touch of heat; adjust to taste.
For the Creamy Finish
- Sour Cream โ Provides creaminess and tang; use Greek yogurt or plant-based yogurt for alternatives.
For Topping
- Fresh Parsley โ Adds freshness and color; may substitute with thyme or basil.
- Croutons โ Adds texture and crunch; can be store-bought or homemade.
This Savory Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken Stew is just waiting to fill your home with delightful aromas and warming flavors!
How to Make Savory Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken Stew
Combine Ingredients: In a 6-8 quart slow cooker, combine the boneless skinless chicken thighs, cannellini beans, unsalted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, shallot, lemon juice, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir well to ensure everything is coated.
Set Up to Cook: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for about 4 hours. You want the chicken to be tender and easily shreddable as it cooks away, filling your kitchen with that amazing aroma.
Shred the Chicken: After 4 hours, use two forks to shred the chicken into large pieces while it remains in the slow cooker. This helps the meat absorb that luscious broth for maximum flavor.
Add the Creamy Finish: Stir in the sour cream until everything is well combined and creamy. The addition of sour cream makes your stew velvety and provides a delightful tang that enhances the dish.
Serve and Garnish: Serve the stew hot, topped with croutons for that wonderful crunch. Donโt forget to sprinkle extra parsley on top! Optional: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over each bowl before serving for a zesty kick.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Savory Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken Stew
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure the stew is cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
- Freezer: Freeze portions for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe containers or bags, and label for easy identification.
- Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to revive the creamy texture.
- Serving Tips: Stir well after reheating and serve hot, ensuring that your comforting Savory Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken Stew feels fresh and delicious!
Make Ahead Options
These Savory Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken Stew ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the shallot, mince the garlic, and combine the spices up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, you can also slice and refrigerate the fresh parsley. When you’re ready to enjoy this comforting stew, simply add the prepped ingredients along with chicken thighs, cannellini beans, and butter to your slow cooker. Cook on low for about 4 hours. This way, you not only save time but also ensure your stew is just as delicious as it would be made fresh!
Expert Tips for Savory Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken Stew
- Optimal Cooking Time: Avoid overcooking the chicken; 4 hours on low is ideal for keeping it tender and juicy.
- Flavor Enhancement: Consider browning the chicken thighs in a skillet before slow cooking to deepen the flavors.
- Veggie Additions: For extra nutrition, feel free to toss in diced carrots or celery โ just ensure they are chopped small for even cooking.
- Garlic Flavor Control: If the garlic flavor is too overpowering, balance it with additional sour cream or a splash more of lemon juice.
- Perfect Leftovers: Make sure to freeze any leftovers in portions for easy reheating of your comforting Savory Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken Stew.
What to Serve with Savory Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken Stew?
When it’s time to enjoy this hearty stew, complement it with delightful pairings that elevate your cozy meal experience.
Crusty Bread: Perfect for sopping up the creamy broth, crusty bread adds a satisfying crunch. Itโs hard to resist that combination!
Creamy Polenta: The rich texture of polenta harmonizes beautifully with the stew, enhancing the overall comfort-food experience.
Garlic Butter Toast: An irresistible option, this toast carries the same garlic theme as the stew and adds a savory touch.
Simple Green Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the stew, bringing a bright note to your plate.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots and Brussels sprouts add earthy flavors and a lovely caramelization, making for a colorful and nutritious side.
Chardonnay: A glass of chilled Chardonnay pairs wonderfully, as its crispness complements the rich flavors of the stew.
Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, a light lemon sorbet cleanses the palate after the hearty meal, leaving you refreshed and satisfied.
Each of these pairings enhances the comforting nature of the Savory Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken Stew, making your dining experience truly delightful!
Savory Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken Stew Variations
Dive into delightful tweaks for an even more personalized touch to your stew!
Vegetable Boost: Toss in diced carrots and celery for added nutrition and a touch of sweetness.
Protein Swap: Use turkey instead of chicken for a lighter twist, perfect for those seeking a unique flavor.
Bean Alternatives: Replace cannellini beans with black beans or chickpeas for an earthy contrast that enhances texture.
Herb Swap: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or basil instead of parsley for a fresh flavor profile.
Dairy-Free Delight: Replace butter with olive oil and swap sour cream for coconut cream for a creamy finish that suits dairy-free diets.
Flavor Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a hint of warmth that spices things up.
Zesty Note: Substitute lemon juice with lime juice for a bright twist that elevates the dish even further.
Enjoy making this savory stew your own with these delicious variations!
Savory Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken Stew Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for this recipe?
For this Savory Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken Stew, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are the recommended choice as they remain tender and juicy during cooking. However, if you prefer a leaner option, you can certainly substitute them with chicken breasts; just be aware that breasts may dry out slightly if overcooked.
How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
You can store your leftover stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to ensure the stew has cooled completely before sealing it to help maintain its freshness and taste.
Can I freeze this stew?
Absolutely! You can freeze your Savory Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken Stew for up to 3 months. Pour it into freezer-safe containers or bags, label them with the date, and be sure to leave some space for expansion as the stew freezes.
What should I do if the stew turns out too thin?
If your stew seems a bit too watery, donโt worry! You can thicken it by mixing in a slurry of cornstarch and water: combine 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water, then stir it into the stew while itโs simmering on low. Let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes until thickened to your liking.
Can I add vegetables to the stew?
Very! Feel free to add diced carrots, celery, or even potatoes to your stew for extra nutrition and flavor. Just chop them into smaller pieces for even cooking. Toss them in at the beginning with the other ingredients to allow them to soften beautifully over the cooking time.
Is this stew suitable for anyone with dietary restrictions?
Yes, this recipe can be customized to meet various dietary needs! For a dairy-free version, replace the unsalted butter with olive oil or ghee, and substitute the sour cream with coconut cream or dairy-free yogurt. Just be sure to check all labels for allergens specific to your dietary considerations.
Savory Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken Stew for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a 6-8 quart slow cooker, combine the boneless skinless chicken thighs, cannellini beans, unsalted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, shallot, lemon juice, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir well to ensure everything is coated.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for about 4 hours.
- After 4 hours, use two forks to shred the chicken into large pieces while it remains in the slow cooker.
- Stir in the sour cream until everything is well combined and creamy.
- Serve the stew hot, topped with croutons and sprinkle extra parsley on top.
