Name: Slow Cooker Spicy Chicken Stew
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 360 min
Total time: 365 min
Ingredients: 1.5 lb chicken; 2 cups salsa; 2 ribs celery (diced); 2 pcs carrots (diced); 1 lb frozen diced potatoes; 1 15-oz can black beans (drained and rinsed); 2 cups frozen corn kernels; 1 10-oz can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies (undrained (optional)); 2 cups chicken broth; 2 tsp cumin; 1 Tbsp chili powder; to taste salt; to taste pepper

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There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of Slow Cooker Spicy Chicken Stew on a chilly winter evening. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a last-minute decision during a bustling week, and I had just returned home to find the weather had turned cold and blustery. As I tossed the ingredients into my slow cooker, the aroma of spices and tender chicken began to fill my kitchen, instantly lifting my spirits. The feeling of anticipation while waiting for the stew to cook is simply unmatched. As the hours passed, I could almost hear the stew whispering sweet nothings, promising a delightful, hearty meal. This stew quickly became a go-to in my household, a comforting meal that brings everyone together around the table.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
6 hr 5 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
360 mins

Difficulty:
Hard

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Vegan, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
10 g

Tools Used:
6-qt Slow Cooker

Why Try This Slow Cooker Spicy Chicken Stew

What I absolutely adore about this Slow Cooker Spicy Chicken Stew is how effortlessly it combines flavor and nutrition. The slow cooking method allows the spices to meld perfectly, creating a rich and satisfying taste that’s hard to resist.

Heartwarming Flavor

There’s nothing like the warm embrace of spices, especially during the winter months. The combination of chicken, salsa, and cumin adds an incredible depth of flavor. Each spoonful delivers a kick that dances on your taste buds, making it a perfect choice for those who enjoy a bit of spice in their meals.

Simple Preparation

One of the beauties of this recipe is its simplicity. You can throw everything into the slow cooker, set it, and forget it. This hands-off approach frees up your time for other activities, whether it’s spending time with family or simply relaxing with a good book. You don’t have to stand over the stove; just let the magic happen.

Healthy Ingredients

This stew is packed with wholesome ingredients like celery, carrots, and black beans. These additions not only boost the nutritional profile but also contribute to its heartiness. You can feel good about serving this dish because it’s not just filling—it’s nourishing.

Versatile and Customizable

You can easily adjust this Slow Cooker Spicy Chicken Stew to suit your taste. Want it milder? Swap out for a mild salsa. Prefer more heat? Add extra spices or fresh chilies. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability, making it fun to experiment with new flavors.

Great for Meal Prep

If you’re like me and love meal prepping, this stew is a fantastic option. It holds up well in the fridge and even tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Plus, it’s easy to portion out for lunches during the week. You’ll always have a satisfying meal ready to go.

Essential Ingredients for Slow Cooker Spicy Chicken Stew

This Slow Cooker Spicy Chicken Stew comes together with a delightful mix of ingredients that work harmoniously. Each component is selected to enhance the overall flavor profile while ensuring a hearty and fulfilling meal.

1½ lb chicken: This is the star of the stew, providing protein and a tender texture.
2 cups salsa: Adds flavor and moisture; choose your favorite variety for desired spice levels.
2 celery ribs, diced: Offers crunch and freshness, balancing the hearty flavors.
2 carrots, diced: Sweetens the stew naturally while adding color and nutrients.
1 lb frozen diced potatoes: Makes it filling and adds a creamy texture when cooked.
1 (15-oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed: Adds protein and fiber, making the dish even more satisfying.
2 cups frozen corn kernels: Provides sweetness and a pop of color.
1 (10-oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained: Optional, but it adds zest and depth to the flavor.
2 cups chicken broth: The base of the stew; it brings all the flavors together.
2 tsp cumin: Adds a warm, earthy flavor that complements the chicken.
1 tbsp chili powder: For an added kick of flavor and spice.
Salt & pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing all the flavors.

How to Prepare Slow Cooker Spicy Chicken Stew

Preparing the Slow Cooker Spicy Chicken Stew is as easy as pie. This is truly a dump-and-go recipe, perfect for busy days when you want a hearty meal waiting for you at dinner time. Follow these steps to create a delightful stew that will warm your heart.

Gather all your ingredients on the counter. You’ll need your chicken, salsa, celery, carrots, frozen diced potatoes, black beans, corn kernels, Rotel, chicken broth, cumin, chili powder, and salt and pepper. Make sure everything is ready to go.
In your slow cooker, place the chicken at the bottom. I recommend using boneless, skinless cuts for ease.
Pour the salsa over the chicken, making sure it’s well coated.
Add the diced celery and carrots, spreading them evenly on top.
Next, toss in the frozen diced potatoes, followed by the drained black beans and corn kernels. Don’t worry about thawing them first; the slow cooker will take care of that.
If you’re using it, add the Rotel on top. This can be omitted if you prefer a milder stew, but it does add great flavor.
Pour the chicken broth over everything, ensuring all ingredients are submerged.
Sprinkle the cumin and chili powder over the top, and season with salt and pepper according to your taste.
Cover the slow cooker and set it to LOW. Let it cook for 6 hours. You can go about your day, knowing a delicious meal awaits you!
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir everything to combine well. Check the seasoning once more and add more salt and pepper if needed.
Your Slow Cooker Spicy Chicken Stew is now ready to be served! Ladle it into bowls and enjoy!

Things Worth Knowing

Use a quality slow cooker: Investing in a reliable slow cooker ensures even cooking and delicious results.
Texture matters: Avoid overcooking the vegetables; they should be tender but not mushy.
Flavor depth: Allow the stew to sit for a few minutes after cooking for the flavors to meld perfectly.
Freezer-friendly: This stew freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep.

Tips and Variations

When it comes to perfecting your Slow Cooker Spicy Chicken Stew, there are countless tips and variations you can explore. Here are some ideas to enhance your dish:

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Freezing: This stew can be frozen for up to three months. Just let it cool before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
Pairing: Serve with crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal.
Spice Level: Adjust the heat by choosing different types of salsa or adding fresh jalapeños.
Veggie Boost: Feel free to add additional vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley just before serving for a fresh touch.

Serving Ideas for Slow Cooker Spicy Chicken Stew

When it comes to serving your Slow Cooker Spicy Chicken Stew, the possibilities are as varied as they are delicious. Here are some ideas to consider:

Serve with crusty bread: A good loaf of bread is perfect for soaking up all that flavorful broth.
Over rice: Spoon the stew over a bed of fluffy rice to make the dish even heartier.
With a side salad: A fresh salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the stew.
Perfect for gatherings: This dish is great for potlucks or family gatherings; it serves a crowd and is sure to please.
Cozy winter meal: Ideal for chilly evenings, it warms you from the inside out.
Meal prep favorite: Make a big batch and portion it out for easy lunches during the week.

FAQ

Absolutely! To make this Slow Cooker Spicy Chicken Stew on the stovetop, simply combine all the ingredients in a Dutch oven. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the chicken is cooked through. This method is quicker than using a slow cooker and will still yield a delicious result. After the chicken is cooked, shred it and return it to the pot to mix everything evenly.

Yes, you can freeze this Slow Cooker Spicy Chicken Stew. After cooking, let it cool completely. Then, transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the stew in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stovetop, in the microwave, or in the slow cooker. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep!

This Slow Cooker Spicy Chicken Stew pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with crusty bread for dipping, or over a bed of rice to soak up the flavorful broth. A fresh salad on the side can also add a nice crunch and balance the meal. This stew is hearty enough to stand alone but also works well with simple sides.

You can easily adjust the spice level of your Slow Cooker Spicy Chicken Stew. If you prefer a milder flavor, opt for a mild salsa and skip the Rotel. Alternatively, if you love heat, add diced jalapeños or increase the amount of chili powder. Tasting as you go is key, as you can always add more spice but can’t take it away!

Conclusion

The Slow Cooker Spicy Chicken Stew is a heartwarming dish that truly embodies comfort food. Its combination of wholesome ingredients, rich flavors, and ease of preparation makes it a standout recipe for any occasion. I encourage you to try making this stew, especially on a chilly day when you crave something warm and filling. You won’t be disappointed, as it will surely become a beloved staple in your home!