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Slow Cooker Chicken and Bean Stew

This comforting chicken and bean stew is prepared in a crockpot, utilizing slow, steady heat to meld simple ingredients into a hearty, flavorful dish. Main ingredients include tender chicken thighs, creamy white beans, and aromatic spices, resulting in a thick, stew-like consistency with a smoky, savory aroma. It’s an effortless, soul-warming meal perfect for chilly days, with minimal hands-on time and maximum flavor.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces bone-in, skinless chicken thighs preferably
  • 1 can white beans rinsed and drained
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 red or yellow bell pepper bell pepper chopped
  • 4 cups chicken broth low-sodium preferred
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 large onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Crockpot
  • Sharp Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Wooden spoon
  • Skillet

Method
 

  1. Start by chopping the onion into small dice and mincing the garlic to release their vibrant aromas.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then add the diced chicken thighs. Sear until golden brown on both sides, about 5 minutes, creating a flavorful crust.
  3. Transfer the seared chicken to the crockpot, then add the diced onions and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until fragrant and translucent, about 2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits for extra flavor.
  4. Pour the cooked onions, garlic, and juices into the crockpot with the chicken. Add the chopped bell pepper, rinsed beans, tomato paste, cumin, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the ingredients are just covered. Stir gently to combine everything evenly.
  6. Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours until the chicken is tender and falling apart, and the flavors meld beautifully.
  7. Once cooked, remove the chicken thighs and shred them with two forks, then return the shredded meat to the stew, stirring to incorporate.
  8. Taste the stew and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or a squeeze of fresh lemon for brightness if desired.
  9. Serve the hearty stew hot, garnished with fresh herbs if you like, and enjoy the comforting, smoky flavors.