If you’ve been searching for a comforting, hearty dish with a delightful kick, this Slow Cooker Spicy Chicken Stew Recipe is just the answer. Packed with tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and bold spices, it simmers slowly to develop rich, layered flavors that will warm your soul. Whether you’re entertaining friends or craving a satisfying weeknight meal, this stew hits all the right notes with a splash of spice, wholesome ingredients, and effortless preparation that the whole family will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Slow Cooker Spicy Chicken Stew Recipe shines because of its straightforward yet perfectly balanced ingredients. Each element contributes uniquely: the salsa and Rotel add both moisture and zest, while the beans, corn, and veggies build satisfying texture and heartiness. Let’s dive into the essentials that make this dish a winner every time.
- Chicken (1½ lb): Use boneless, skinless for easy shredding and tender bites.
- Salsa (2 cups): Adds a fresh, tangy base with depth from blended tomatoes and chilies.
- Celery ribs (2, diced): Offers a subtle crunch and aromatic freshness.
- Carrots (2, diced): Bring natural sweetness and vibrant color to the stew.
- Frozen diced potatoes (1 lb): Perfect for absorbing all those delicious spices while maintaining structure.
- Black beans (1 can, drained and rinsed): Add protein, fiber, and a meaty texture that complements the chicken.
- Frozen corn kernels (2 cups): Introduce bursts of sweetness and a nutty crunch.
- Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies (1 can, undrained, optional): Crank up the heat and boost tomato richness.
- Chicken broth (2 cups): The flavorful liquid base that ties everything together beautifully.
- Cumin (2 tsp): Imparts a warm, earthy spice essential to the stew’s character.
- Chili powder (1 Tbsp): Brings smoky, spicy depth to the mix.
- Salt & pepper (to taste): Simple seasonings that enhance and balance all the flavors.
How to Make Slow Cooker Spicy Chicken Stew Recipe
Step 1: Combine All Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Start by gathering every ingredient and layering them straight into your slow cooker pot. This dish is all about simplicity—no pre-cooking needed—so just place the chicken, vegetables, beans, spices, and liquids together. The salsa and Rotel will provide wonderful moisture and zest as everything simmers.
Step 2: Cook on LOW for 6 Hours
Set your slow cooker to low and let the magic happen for about six hours. This slow cooking allows the chicken to become incredibly tender and allows the flavors to marry into a rich, spicy stew that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
Step 3: Shred the Chicken and Return to Stew
Once the time is up, take the chicken out carefully and shred it using two forks. This step is key—it transforms the chicken into cozy, bite-sized pieces that soak up all that luscious broth. After shredding, stir the chicken back into the slow cooker, blending everything together for a perfect finish.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Spicy Chicken Stew Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can elevate this Slow Cooker Spicy Chicken Stew Recipe beautifully. Consider a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro for a pop of green and herbaceous brightness. A dollop of sour cream or a swirl of Greek yogurt can tone down the heat while adding creamy richness. For a bit of crunch, top with diced avocado or a handful of crushed tortilla chips.
Side Dishes
This stew is so flavorful and filling that it can shine on its own, but pairing it with a side makes the meal even better. Warm, crusty bread or corn tortillas are fantastic for dipping into the saucy goodness. A simple side salad with lime vinaigrette or some steamed rice are also lovely companions that round out the meal without overpowering the stew’s bold flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Slow Cooker Spicy Chicken Stew Recipe in small bowls topped with shredded cheese and scallions, turning it into a casual fiesta-style meal. You could also transform leftovers into tacos by spooning the stew onto warm tortillas and adding your favorite fixings. Using hollowed-out baked potatoes as boats to house this stew creates an irresistible, hearty presentation perfect for guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your stew, let the leftovers cool completely before transferring them to airtight containers. Stored in the refrigerator, this Slow Cooker Spicy Chicken Stew Recipe will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 to 4 days, making it perfect for easy lunches or cozy dinners later in the week.
Freezing
This stew freezes wonderfully, which means you can double the recipe and save some for another day. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags, leaving a little room for expansion. It maintains its taste and texture for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply move to the refrigerator overnight and reheat when ready.
Reheating
Reheat your leftover Slow Cooker Spicy Chicken Stew Recipe gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw fully before warming to ensure the chicken stays tender and the spices redistribute evenly throughout the stew.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this stew and tend to be even more tender and flavorful after slow cooking. Just adjust cooking time if they’re bone-in.
How spicy is this Slow Cooker Spicy Chicken Stew Recipe?
The spice level is medium with a nice balance of warmth and flavor, but you can easily adjust it by adding more chili powder or extra Rotel if you like your stew hotter.
Can I make this stew in an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can! Use the sauté function to combine ingredients and then pressure cook for about 20 minutes, followed by a natural release. It’s a great quicker alternative to slow cooking.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian or vegan?
Definitely! Just substitute the chicken with extra beans, tofu, or plant-based meat alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The spices and veggies will still deliver fantastic flavor.
What can I do with the leftover stew?
Leftovers are perfect as a filling for tacos, served over rice, or even spooned onto baked potatoes. It’s versatile and delicious no matter how you enjoy it next day!
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Spicy Chicken Stew Recipe is one of those rare dishes that feels special but is so easy to pull together. If you love food with a punch of flavor and minimal fuss, this stew deserves a spot in your recipe collection. I can’t recommend it enough for bringing warmth, spice, and comfort to your table. Give it a try—you’ll be hooked from the very first spoonful!
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Slow Cooker Spicy Chicken Stew Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Stew
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Slow Cooker Spicy Chicken Stew is a hearty, flavorful meal that’s perfect for a comforting dinner. Made with tender chicken, a blend of vibrant vegetables, black beans, and a medley of spices, it cooks slowly to develop deep, rich flavors. The stew combines the warmth of chili powder and cumin with the freshness of salsa and Rotel tomatoes, making it a deliciously spicy and satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare and serves eight.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1½ lb chicken
Vegetables and Beans
- 2 celery ribs, diced
- 2 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)
Liquids
- 2 cups salsa
- 2 cups chicken broth
Spices and Seasoning
- 2 tsp cumin
- 1 Tbsp chili powder
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare and Combine Ingredients: Place the chicken, salsa, diced celery, diced carrots, frozen diced potatoes, black beans, frozen corn kernels, Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies (if using), chicken broth, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper into the slow cooker, spreading the ingredients evenly.
- Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook the mixture on the LOW setting for 6 hours, allowing all flavors to meld and the chicken to become tender.
- Shred Chicken: After cooking, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker using tongs or a slotted spoon. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Combine and Serve: Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir it thoroughly to mix it with the stew. Serve hot and enjoy the spicy, wholesome stew.
Notes
- For a milder stew, omit the Rotel diced tomatoes and reduce chili powder to 1/2 tablespoon.
- Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs according to your preference.
- Adding more chicken broth can create a soupier consistency.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Serve with warm cornbread or over rice for a complete meal.
