When the chill of the season sets in, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of hearty stew to warm you from the inside out. The Slow-Cooker Chicken and Wild Rice Stew is a game-changer for busy weeknights, offering comfort, nutrition, and ease all in one pot. Whether you’re a seasoned slow-cooker enthusiast or a beginner in the world of cozy meals, this recipe promises a fuss-free experience with delicious results.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless Prep: Minimal prep work means you can let the slow cooker do all the heavy lifting while you focus on other tasks—or simply relax.
Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with lean protein, hearty wild rice, and nutrient-rich veggies, this stew is as nourishing as it is satisfying.
Flavorful Simplicity: With the earthy notes of thyme and the richness of chicken broth, this dish delivers a comforting flavor profile that feels like a warm hug.

What You’ll Need

To create this comforting stew, you’ll gather the following ingredients:

Protein: Cubed chicken tenderloin brings a tender, juicy texture.
Vegetables: Onion, garlic, carrots, and celery add depth, nutrition, and color to the stew.
Grain: Wild rice offers a nutty flavor and chewy texture that elevates the dish.
Broth & Seasoning: Chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper tie it all together.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sear the Chicken: Start by browning cubed chicken in olive oil. This step locks in flavor and creates a rich base for the stew.
Sauté Aromatics: In the same pan, sauté onion and garlic until fragrant and translucent. Their savory aroma sets the stage for a flavor-packed meal.
Assemble in the Slow Cooker: Add the chicken, aromatics, diced carrots, celery, and wild rice into your slow cooker.
Pour & Season: Pour in chicken broth and stir in dried thyme. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Cook Low & Slow: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The magic happens as the flavors meld together, and the rice becomes tender.
Final Touch: Before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning. Ladle into bowls and savor every spoonful of this cozy masterpiece.

Tips for Success

Pre-Browning for Flavor: Don’t skip the step of browning the chicken and sautéing the aromatics—it adds a depth of flavor that makes a big difference.
Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to toss in extra veggies like mushrooms, spinach, or parsnips for added nutrition and variety.
Freezer-Friendly: This stew freezes beautifully. Make a double batch and save some for a rainy day!

Why It’s Perfect for Weeknights

The slow cooker is your secret weapon for stress-free dinners, and this stew is proof of its magic. Set it up in the morning, and by evening, you’ll have a steaming pot of goodness ready to serve. Pair it with crusty bread or a side salad, and you’ve got a complete meal that feels gourmet but takes minimal effort.

A Stew for the Soul

Slow-Cooker Chicken and Wild Rice Stew isn’t just a meal—it’s a cozy tradition in the making. The combination of tender chicken, hearty wild rice, and aromatic vegetables is sure to become a family favorite. So, grab your slow cooker and let the aroma of comfort fill your home.

Enjoy, and happy cooking! 🍲

Slow-Cooker Chicken and Wild Rice Stew

Author: Alice

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Description

Warm up your weeknight dinners with this comforting and easy-to-make slow-cooker stew. Featuring tender chicken tenderloin and wholesome wild rice, it’s a hearty meal perfect for cozy evenings.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb chicken tenderloin, cut into cubes
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, peeled and diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 cup wild rice
4 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken tenderloin cubes and cook until they are browned on all sides. Transfer the chicken to the slow cooker.
2. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the sautéed onions and garlic to the slow cooker.
4. Add the diced carrots, celery, and wild rice to the slow cooker.
5. Pour the chicken broth into the slow cooker and stir in the dried thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the wild rice is tender.
7. Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Enjoy!

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