Slow Cooker Savory Chicken and Creamy Mushroom Stew

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 16 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 stalks celery, sliced
• 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sear the chicken thighs for 3-4 minutes per side until lightly browned (they do not have to be fully cooked). Transfer to the slow cooker.
2. Add the diced onion, sliced mushrooms, carrots, celery, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 5 minutes until vegetables soften slightly. Transfer the vegetable mixture to the slow cooker over the chicken.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together chicken broth and flour until smooth. Pour this mixture into the slow cooker. Add dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine ingredients.
4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
5. Remove the chicken thighs to a plate and shred or chop them into bite-sized pieces. Return the chicken to the slow cooker.
6. Stir in the half-and-half or heavy cream. Cover and cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes to warm through and thicken the stew.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
8. Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley if desired, alongside crusty bread or mashed potatoes for a complete comfort meal.

Chef tips

• For a dairy-free option, substitute coconut cream for the half-and-half or heavy cream, though it will change the flavor slightly.
• If you prefer a thicker stew, mix an additional tablespoon of flour with a little water to make a slurry and stir it in during the final heating step.
• Searing the chicken before slow cooking enhances flavor, but if short on time, you can skip this step.
• Use fresh rosemary and thyme if available for a more vibrant herb flavor, but dried herbs work well and save prepping time.