If you are looking for a hearty, comforting meal that bursts with vibrant flavors and nourishing vegetables, then the Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Stew with Vegetables Recipe is an absolute must-try. This dish effortlessly combines tender chicken, tender-crisp vegetables, and a rich, savory broth infused with Italian seasonings and a touch of balsamic vinegar for the perfect depth of flavor. It simmers slowly, allowing each ingredient to shine in its own right while blending into a stew that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you are cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or preparing a cozy weekend dinner, this stew hits all the right notes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Stew with Vegetables Recipe comes down to simple, wholesome ingredients that each play an essential role. From the tender chicken to the earthy vegetables and the rich, umami-packed tomato base, every element adds color, texture, and layers of flavor that make this stew truly special.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Choose thighs for more tenderness and flavor or breasts for a leaner option.
- 1 cup carrots, chopped: Adds sweetness and vibrant orange hues.
- 1 cup celery, chopped: Provides subtle crunch and aromatic freshness.
- 1 cup onion, chopped: Offers a natural sweetness that mellows when slow cooked.
- 1 cup yellow or red waxy potato, chopped: Creates a creamy texture and hearty body in the stew.
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced fire-roasted tomatoes: Delivers smoky richness and a vibrant tomato taste.
- 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste: Concentrates tomato flavor and thickens the broth.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that defines the Tuscan flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon granulated garlic: Provides a mellow garlic punch without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances and balances all flavors.
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (plus an additional tablespoon for thickening): Adds a tangy sweetness that brightens the stew.
- 32 ounces chicken stock: The flavorful liquid base that ties everything together.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and a smooth mouthfeel.
- 2 tablespoons arrowroot powder or cornstarch: For thickening the stew to perfection.
How to Make Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Stew with Vegetables Recipe
Step 1: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker
Start by layering all your ingredients in the slow cooker—the chicken, carrots, celery, onion, potatoes, diced fire-roasted tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, granulated garlic, chicken stock, a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and kosher salt. Give everything a gentle stir to ensure the flavors begin to mingle while leaving the ingredients distinct. This simple assembly sets the stage for a mouthwatering stew.
Step 2: Cook the Stew Low & Slow
Cover your slow cooker and set it to high for about 4 hours or low for approximately 6 hours depending on your schedule. This slow and steady cooking method is what makes the chicken melt-in-your-mouth tender and the vegetables perfectly soft yet not mushy. Plus, the flavors have time to develop and enrich the broth, ensuring every bite is packed with comforting goodness.
Step 3: Thicken the Broth
Once your stew has cooked, it’s time for that silky, thickened finish. Ladle out about 1/4 cup of the cooking broth into a small bowl. Whisk in the arrowroot powder or cornstarch along with an additional tablespoon of balsamic vinegar until smooth. Pour this mixture back into the slow cooker, stir well, then cover and cook on high for another 5 minutes. This step creates the perfect luscious consistency that clings deliciously to every piece of chicken and vegetable.
Step 4: Shred and Finish
Remove the chicken from the stew and shred or dice it with forks right in your kitchen. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir everything together. Take a moment to taste and adjust salt if needed. For the finishing touch, serve warm with a drizzle of olive oil and an optional sprinkle of freshly ground pepper. This final flourish adds a bright, savory lift that rounds out the dish.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Stew with Vegetables Recipe
Garnishes
For garnishes, fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil are fantastic—they add a pop of color and fresh aroma that lightens the rich stew. A few grated Parmesan shavings can also elevate the dish with their nutty, salty flavor. Don’t forget a final drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to bring a silky texture and subtle fruitiness to the surface.
Side Dishes
This stew stands beautifully on its own but pairing it with some crusty artisan bread or garlic bread is an unbeatable combo for soaking up every last drop of the savory broth. A simple side salad with lemon vinaigrette can provide a refreshing balance. For a hearty meal, consider serving it alongside creamy polenta or buttery mashed potatoes that complement the Tuscan flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Elevate presentation by serving the Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Stew with Vegetables Recipe in rustic bowls with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Layering it over a bed of sautéed kale or spinach adds visual appeal and extra nutrition. For casual dinners, dish it in a large serving bowl so everyone can help themselves family-style, fostering a warm, convivial atmosphere.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the stew chilled promptly to maintain freshness and texture of the chicken and vegetables.
Freezing
If you want to save the Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Stew with Vegetables Recipe for longer, it freezes wonderfully. Portion the stew into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some room for expansion. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen stew overnight in the refrigerator if possible. Warm it gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If reheating from refrigerated leftovers, just heat on low to medium heat until simmering and hot. Add a splash of water or stock if it has thickened too much during storage.
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat instead of chicken?
Absolutely! While this recipe is designed for chicken, turkey thighs or boneless pork shoulder can also work well in slow cooker stews. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure tenderness.
Is it possible to make this recipe in an Instant Pot or on the stove?
Yes, you can adapt the recipe for an Instant Pot by using the sauté function to brown ingredients first and then pressure cooking the stew for about 20 minutes. On the stove, simmer over low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
Can I add other vegetables to the stew?
Definitely! Feel free to add zucchini, green beans, or bell peppers to the stew. Just add them in the last hour of cooking to keep some texture and prevent overcooking.
What if I don’t have arrowroot powder or cornstarch?
You can use all-purpose flour as a thickener instead. Mix it with a small amount of cold water before stirring into the stew to avoid lumps. Alternatively, reducing the broth by simmering uncovered can also thicken it.
How spicy is this stew?
This Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Stew with Vegetables Recipe is mild and perfect for all palates. If you want to add heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can easily be added.
Final Thoughts
I truly believe that the Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Stew with Vegetables Recipe is one of those dishes that brings both comfort and joy to the table. Its rich, inviting flavors combined with wholesome ingredients make it a perfect meal to share any day of the week. Once you try this stew, you might find it becoming a beloved staple in your kitchen rotation, just as it has in mine. So go ahead and make this slow-cooked treasure—you deserve a dinner that feels this good.
Print
Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Stew with Vegetables Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Stew
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Tuscan
Description
This Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Stew with Vegetables is a hearty and flavorful meal perfect for cozy dinners. Tender chicken breasts or thighs are slow-cooked with a vibrant mix of carrots, celery, onion, and waxy potatoes in a savory tomato-based broth enhanced with Italian seasoning, garlic, and balsamic vinegar. The stew is thickened with arrowroot powder for a luscious texture, making it a comforting one-pot dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with rustic Tuscan flavors.
Ingredients
Chicken and Vegetables
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup carrots, chopped
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 1 cup yellow or red waxy potato, chopped
Tomato Base and Seasonings
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced fire-roasted tomatoes
- 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon granulated garlic
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (plus an additional tablespoon for thickening)
- 32 ounces chicken stock
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Thickening Agent
- 2 tablespoons arrowroot powder or cornstarch
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Add the chicken, chopped carrots, celery, onion, potatoes, diced fire-roasted tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, granulated garlic, chicken stock, 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and kosher salt into a 6-quart slow cooker. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Cook the Stew Low & Slow: Cover the slow cooker and set to high. Cook for about 4 hours, or alternatively on low for 6 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully and ensures the chicken becomes tender.
- Thicken the Broth: Carefully ladle out 1/4 cup of the cooking broth into a small bowl. Whisk in the arrowroot powder along with an additional tablespoon of balsamic vinegar until the mixture is smooth. Pour this back into the slow cooker and stir well to incorporate. Cover and cook on high for an additional 5 minutes to let the stew thicken.
- Shred and Finish: Remove the chicken pieces from the stew and shred or dice them with a fork. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine. Taste the stew and add additional salt if needed. Serve the stew warm with a drizzle of olive oil and freshly ground pepper if desired for an extra layer of flavor.
Notes
- You can use either chicken breasts or thighs based on your preference; thighs tend to stay juicier during slow cooking.
- Arrowroot powder is used to thicken the stew, but cornstarch can be used as a substitute.
- Adjust the seasoning and salt to taste at the end of cooking.
- For a richer tomato flavor, use fire-roasted diced tomatoes as suggested.
- Serve with crusty bread or over polenta for a complete meal.
