why make this recipe

Tuscan Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is a cozy and delicious dish that warms you up inside. This stew is perfect for busy days because you can set it and forget it while it cooks slowly. The flavors blend beautifully, giving you a comforting meal that the whole family will love. Plus, it’s healthy with vegetables and lean chicken, making it a great choice for any dinner.

how to make Tuscan Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Creating Tuscan Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is an effortless process if you follow these simple steps:

Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
Layer Base Ingredients: Place the diced carrots, celery, onion, and garlic in the base of the slow cooker.
Add Chicken: Lay the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the vegetable mix.
Incorporate Tomatoes: Pour the can of diced tomatoes and their juice over the chicken.
Pour Liquids: Add chicken broth and white wine (if using) to the slow cooker.
Season: Sprinkle dried oregano, thyme, and black pepper over the top.
Stir: Gently stir the components to ensure even distribution of spices.
Cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
Add Greens: During the last 30 minutes of cooking, add chopped kale or spinach to the slow cooker.
Shred Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken, shred it using two forks, and return it to the stew.
Garnish: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

These easy steps will help you create a Tuscan stew that is delicious and satisfying.

how to serve Tuscan Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

Serve this stew hot, perfect with a slice of crusty bread or over a bed of rice. The rich flavors make it a delightful meal on its own, but pairing it with fresh bread for dipping enhances the experience even more!

how to store Tuscan Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

To store leftover stew, let it cool to room temperature. Then, place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the stew for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

tips to make Tuscan Slow Cooker Chicken Stew

For extra flavor, try marinating the chicken thighs in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for a few hours before cooking.
Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes or bell peppers for added nutrition.
Adjust the seasoning to your taste; you can add more herbs or a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.

variation

If you’re looking for a different twist, you can swap the chicken thighs for boneless chicken breasts. Additionally, for a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken thighs. Just increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours.

2. Can I make this recipe without wine?
Absolutely! You can substitute the white wine with more chicken broth or simply omit it.

3. What can I use instead of kale or spinach?
You can use Swiss chard or collard greens if you prefer, or leave the greens out entirely for a different flavor profile.