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Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken Stew Recipe

ByLucy
Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 8 reviews

If you’re craving a hearty, cozy meal that’s bursting with flavor and practically makes itself, you’re going to love this Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken Stew Recipe. I’ve been making this dish for years now, and it’s become my go-to when I want something comforting without hovering over the stove. Imagine tender chicken, creamy broth, and veggies all melding together so perfectly you can taste every savory, garlicky bite. Stick with me—I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make this slow cooker stew your new favorite dinner.

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Why This Recipe Works

  • Effortless Cooking: Toss everything in the slow cooker and walk away—no babysitting needed.
  • Rich, Creamy Flavor: A combination of Parmesan and cream makes the broth irresistibly silky.
  • Perfectly Tender Veggies and Chicken: Slow cooking gently melds flavors and textures for comfort food at its best.
  • Customizable Ingredients: Easy to tweak by swapping veggies or adding your favorites without losing the essence.
Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken Stew, easy slow cooker chicken recipes, hearty chicken stew, creamy garlic chicken dinner, comforting slow cooker meals - A white crockpot filled with creamy chicken stew, containing chunks of white chicken meat, small yellow potatoes, orange carrot slices, and small bits of green herbs scattered throughout, the stew has a thick light cream-colored broth, a woman's hand is holding a silver ladle lifting a portion of the stew above the pot, showing the layers of chicken, potatoes, and carrots in the thick sauce, the background and surface are white marbled texture photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 this …

Ingredients & Why They Work

This Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken Stew Recipe uses simple ingredients that balance hearty vegetables with flavorful seasonings and creamy textures. Each plays a role in building layers of flavor while making sure this stew stays comforting and satisfying. When you shop, look for fresh veggies and quality Parmesan—that little extra touch elevates the dish.

Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken Stew, easy slow cooker chicken recipes, hearty chicken stew, creamy garlic chicken dinner, comforting slow cooker meals - Flat lay of fresh red potatoes cut into chunky pieces showing their smooth red skin and creamy white inside, bright orange carrot slices with a slightly glossy texture, crisp light green celery stalks with visible veins, finely chopped pale yellow onion pieces, three whole garlic cloves with papery white skins and a few peeled cloves showing smooth surfaces, plump raw chicken breasts with a soft pale pink color and moist texture, vibrant green frozen peas scattered naturally, and a small mound of grated Parmesan cheese with a snowy white color and crumbly texture, arranged beautifully with a mix of round, elongated, and irregular shapes, placed on white marbled surface, photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7
  • Red Potatoes: Their waxy texture holds up well during slow cooking, keeping chunks tender yet intact.
  • Carrots: Add natural sweetness and body to the stew while softening perfectly over long cooking times.
  • Celery: Provides a subtle aromatic base that enhances overall flavor depth.
  • Onion: Finely chopped onion dissolves into the broth, giving gentle sweetness and savoriness.
  • Garlic: Minced garlic is the star of this recipe, infusing the stew with its signature aromatic punch.
  • Salt, Parsley, Italian Seasoning, Black Pepper: Seasonings that bring balance—herbs adding freshness, pepper adding warmth.
  • Chicken or Vegetable Broth: Low sodium broth lets you control saltiness and delivers rich savory background.
  • Corn Starch: Helps thicken the stew for that perfect creamy consistency.
  • Heavy Cream: Adds luscious creaminess, making the stew feel indulgent yet homey.
  • Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: They cook evenly in the slow cooker and shred easily for tender bites.
  • Frozen Peas (optional): A pop of color and mild sweetness that freshens each spoonful.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Adds umami richness and that irresistible cheesy finish.
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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

I love how flexible this Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken Stew Recipe is. Over time, I’ve tried swapping veggies, tweaking spices, and even adjusting the creaminess to suit what’s in my fridge or my mood. Feel free to experiment—this stew is forgiving and always tastes good.

  • Variation: Sometimes I throw in mushrooms for an earthy touch, and it’s a wonderful twist that makes the stew even heartier.
  • Dietary Mod: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream to make it dairy-free; it still keeps the stew creamy but with a subtle tropical hint.
  • Seasonal Change: Swap peas for fresh green beans or corn depending on what’s available to keep things fresh and vibrant.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken Stew Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Veggies and Seasonings

Start by cutting your red potatoes into half-inch pieces; this size helps them cook evenly without becoming mushy. Peel and slice your carrots thinly so they soften just right. Chop the celery and finely dice the onion, then mince your garlic cloves—this fresh garlic is key for that garlicky punch you’re after. Toss all these ingredients into your slow cooker and sprinkle with salt, parsley, Italian seasoning, and black pepper—stir it all together so every veggie piece gets coated with the flavors.

Step 2: Mix Liquid Ingredients and Add Chicken

Whisk together your low sodium chicken broth and cornstarch in a small bowl—that cornstarch combo is what thickens your stew at the end, so don’t skip it. Add that along with the heavy cream to the slow cooker. Nestle the chicken breasts into the liquid and push down gently to submerge them a bit. This setup ensures the chicken cooks in all that garlicky, creamy goodness.

Step 3: Set and Forget on Low

Pop the lid on and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours. I’ve found that slow, gentle cooking means the potatoes won’t disintegrate and the chicken stays tender yet shreddable. If your slow cooker runs a little hot or you’re in a hurry, cutting potatoes smaller trims the time without compromising texture. You’re looking for tender potatoes—test by poking with a fork near the end.

Step 4: Shred Chicken, Add Final Touches

Carefully remove the chicken breasts and chop or shred them with forks. Return the shredded chicken to your slow cooker, stir in the frozen peas (if using), and sprinkle on the Parmesan cheese. Give everything a good stir, taste the stew, and adjust your seasoning if needed—a pinch more salt or pepper can really bring it all home. Serve immediately, ideally with crusty bread to soak up every last drop of that luscious sauce.

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Tips from My Kitchen

  • Don’t Overcrowd: Give your veggies and chicken some space so they cook evenly; crowding slows cooking and leads to uneven texture.
  • Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh minced garlic makes a big difference in flavor; garlic powder just doesn’t have the same punch.
  • Check Seasonings at the End: Slow cookers can mellow spices, so always taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving.
  • Avoid Heavy Cream Boiling: Add the cream near the end to prevent it from curdling or separating during long cooking.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken Stew Recipe

Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken Stew, easy slow cooker chicken recipes, hearty chicken stew, creamy garlic chicken dinner, comforting slow cooker meals - The image shows a white bowl filled with creamy soup that has several layers of ingredients. The base layer is a thick, light beige cream soup with small black specks of pepper. On top, there are chunks of yellow potatoes with skin, bright orange carrot pieces, and small pieces of white chicken meat. Green parsley leaves are sprinkled over the soup for color. The bowl rests on a white marbled surface with a blue-gray cloth beside it, and a wooden board with sliced rustic bread is partly shown at the top left. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

I like to sprinkle a handful of fresh chopped parsley or basil right before serving—it adds a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens the rich stew. Sometimes, a little extra shaved Parmesan on top definitely doesn’t hurt! And if you’re feeling fancy, a tiny drizzle of good olive oil adds silkiness and shine.

Side Dishes

Crusty bread is non-negotiable in my book—it’s perfect for soaking up that garlicky parmesan sauce. You might also enjoy this with a simple green salad for freshness or roasted Brussels sprouts to bring a slight crunch and earthiness to the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like serving this stew in individual crockpot-style ramekins or deep bowls with a cheesy garlic breadstick on the side. It turns a humble weekday stew into a charming dinner party dish everyone will rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, I transfer leftovers to airtight containers and keep them in the fridge. This stew stores beautifully for up to 3 days and the flavors actually deepen overnight, making for an even more comforting meal the next day.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this stew a few times with great results. Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing in portion-sized containers. Thawed overnight in the fridge, it reheats nicely and tastes nearly as fresh as the day you made it.

Reheating

I gently reheat leftovers on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If the stew feels too thick, a splash of broth or water helps loosen it up without watering down the flavor. Avoid microwaving if you can; slow, gentle heat preserves the creamy texture best.

FAQs

  1. Can I make this Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken Stew Recipe on the stovetop?

    Absolutely! If you’re short on time, just simmer all the veggies and chicken (minus the cream, cornstarch, and Parmesan) in a large pot until the potatoes are tender, then stir in the cornstarch-cream mixture and Parmesan, cooking until thickened. It’s a quicker but still delicious alternative to slow cooking.

  2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

    Yes! Chicken thighs work great and add a bit more flavor and juiciness. Keep an eye on cooking time as dark meat can sometimes cook faster in a slow cooker. Adjust seasoning accordingly since thighs are richer.

  3. How do I make the stew thicker if it’s too watery?

    If your stew seems too thin, mix a little extra cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the stew. Let it cook on high for about 15 minutes or until the desired thickness is reached.

  4. Can I freeze this stew after adding the cream and Parmesan?

    It’s best to freeze the stew before adding cream and Parmesan to maintain best texture. When thawed, reheat gently and stir in cream and cheese at the end for freshest flavor and creaminess.

  5. What can I serve with Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken Stew Recipe?

    This stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, side salads, or steamed greens. You can also serve it over creamy polenta or buttered noodles for extra heartiness.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken Stew Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. I always look forward to making it, especially on busy days when I want something homemade without the fuss. It’s forgiving, delicious, and so satisfying—once you try it, I have a feeling it’ll become a staple in your recipe rotation like it did in mine. Trust me, this is the kind of stew you’ll want to make again and again, sharing with family and friends for those cozy moments that food makes so special.

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Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken Stew Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.4 from 8 reviews
  • Author: Lucy
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 hours
  • Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Lactose
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Description

A comforting slow cooker chicken stew made with tender chicken breasts, red potatoes, carrots, celery, and a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Perfect for an easy, hearty meal with wholesome vegetables and savory seasonings.

Ingredients

Vegetables and Seasonings

  • 1 lb red potatoes (cut into ½” pieces)
  • 2 large carrots (peeled and thinly sliced)
  • 1 rib celery (chopped)
  • ½ medium onion (finely chopped)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Liquids and Thickener

  • 1½ cups low sodium chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons corn starch
  • ⅔ cup heavy cream

Protein and Add-ins

  • 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lb)
  • 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
  • ⅓ cup shredded Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare Vegetables and Seasonings: Place the potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, salt, parsley, Italian seasoning, and black pepper in a 4- to 6-quart slow cooker and stir to combine evenly.
  2. Mix Broth and Thickener: In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken or vegetable broth and corn starch until smooth, then add this mixture along with the heavy cream into the slow cooker.
  3. Add Chicken: Add the chicken breasts into the slow cooker and press them slightly into the liquid to submerge partially.
  4. Cook Stew: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and chicken is cooked through. Depending on your slow cooker’s temperature, this time may vary slightly.
  5. Shred Chicken and Add Final Ingredients: Remove the cooked chicken from the slow cooker, chop or shred it into bite-sized pieces, and return it to the stew. Stir in the frozen peas and shredded Parmesan cheese, then taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
  6. Serve: Serve the stew immediately. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for dipping.

Notes

  • You can cook this stew on the stovetop if you don’t have a slow cooker. Simmer all ingredients except the cream, corn starch, and Parmesan in a large pot until the potatoes are tender. Mix cream and corn starch, stir into the pot with Parmesan, and continue cooking until thickened.
  • If using broth that contains salt, reduce the added salt from 1½ teaspoons to 1 teaspoon to avoid over-seasoning.
  • Cutting the potatoes smaller will reduce the cooking time if needed.
  • Frozen peas are optional but add a nice touch of sweetness and color to the stew.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 450 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg

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