Why the Crockpot Spicy Chicken Stew Is Great Crockpot Recipe
When it comes to weeknight meals, I love how the Crockpot Spicy Chicken Stew simplifies dinner prep without sacrificing flavor.
This dish is a lifesaver after a long day, as it lets me toss in the ingredients and forget about it until dinner time. The slow cooker works its magic, melding the spices and creating a warming aroma that fills my home.
Plus, it’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers the next day. I appreciate how versatile it is, allowing me to adjust the heat level based on my mood.
Honestly, it’s become a staple in my meal rotation!
Ingredients of Crockpot Spicy Chicken Stew
When it comes to whipping up a cozy meal, the ingredients for the Crockpot Spicy Chicken Stew aren’t just a list; they’re the building blocks of comfort and flavor. Imagine the aroma wafting through your home as everything simmers together, creating a warm hug in a bowl.
Plus, most of the ingredients are pantry staples or easy to find, so you won’t have to set off on a quest to gather them. Let’s plunge into what you’ll need to create this delicious stew.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 lbs baking potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks (about 3 1/3 cups)
- 1 (10 ounce) package frozen sweet corn
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks (about 1 cup)
- 1 onion, thickly sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (12 1/2 ounce) jar salsa
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast
- 4 boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 4 (6 inch) fresh corn tortillas, cut into strips
Now, before you rush off to the store, let’s chat about some ingredient considerations. If you’re feeling adventurous, don’t hesitate to switch things up!
Maybe you have some leftover veggies in the fridge that need using up? Toss them in. Not a fan of spice? Feel free to dial back the chili powder or salsa.
And if you’re trying to stick to a healthier version, you can use low-sodium chicken broth and reduce the amount of salt. Cooking is all about making it yours, so get creative!
And hey, if you accidentally buy the wrong type of salsa, just embrace it. Who knows, you might stumble upon a flavor combination that knocks your socks off. Happy cooking!
How to Make Crockpot Spicy Chicken Stew
Making Crockpot Spicy Chicken Stew is as easy as pie—well, maybe easier, because you don’t even have to bake anything. First things first, gather your ingredients. You’ll need 1 1/2 lbs of baking potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks (that’s about 3 1/3 cups if you want to get technical), a 10-ounce package of frozen sweet corn, 2 stalks of chopped celery, 2 carrots peeled and cut into chunks (around 1 cup), a thickly sliced onion, and 2 minced garlic cloves. Oh, and don’t forget the star of the show: a pound of boneless skinless chicken breast and 4 boneless skinless chicken thighs. Got all that? Great, now let’s get cookin’.
Start by tossing all those chopped veggies—potatoes, corn, celery, carrots, onion, and garlic—into your trusty slow cooker. It’s like a vegetable party, and everyone’s invited. Give them a little stir to mix things up.
Then, grab that 12 1/2-ounce jar of salsa and pour it over the top like you’re drizzling a fancy sauce. Sprinkle in 2 teaspoons of kosher salt, 1 1/2 teaspoons of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir everything again so that those spices get all cozy with the veggies.
Now, lay the chicken pieces on top and pour in 2 1/2 cups of chicken broth. It’s like a warm bath for your chicken. Cover the slow cooker and crank it up to high for about 4 hours. You could do a little dance or binge-watch a show during this time—whatever floats your boat.
Once those 4 hours are up, it’s time for the fun part: shred that chicken. Carefully transfer it to a plate and, using two forks (yes, you’ll look a bit silly, but who cares), shred it into bite-sized pieces.
Then, toss the shredded chicken back into the slow cooker along with 4 (6-inch) fresh corn tortillas, cut into strips. Stir everything together and let it mingle for a few minutes. Serve it warm, and voilà, you’ve just made a hearty stew that will make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside. It’s perfect for a chilly night, or when you just need a little TLC in a bowl. Enjoy!
Crockpot Spicy Chicken Stew Substitutions & Variations For Low Carb Diets
If you’re looking to enjoy a flavorful Crockpot Spicy Chicken Stew while sticking to a low-carb diet, I’ve got some great substitutions and variations for you.
Instead of potatoes, try using cauliflower or turnips for that hearty texture without the carbs. You can swap corn with zucchini or bell peppers to keep it colorful and nutritious.
For added flavor, toss in some diced jalapeños or chopped cilantro. If you’re avoiding tortillas, consider topping your stew with crushed pork rinds for a crunchy finish.
These tweaks will keep your stew delicious while aligning with your low-carb goals. Enjoy!
What to Serve with Crockpot Spicy Chicken Stew
Enjoying a hearty Crockpot Spicy Chicken Stew opens up a world of possibilities for side dishes that complement its bold flavors.
I love pairing it with warm, crusty bread or cornbread for that perfect dip. A simple side salad with fresh greens and a zesty vinaigrette adds a revitalizing crunch.
You can’t go wrong with some Mexican rice to soak up the delicious broth. For a fun twist, think about serving tortilla chips on the side for extra crunch.
Whatever you choose, these sides elevate the meal while balancing the stew’s spiciness and heartiness. Enjoy your feast!
Additional Tips To Decrease Calories
To lower the calorie count of your Crockpot Spicy Chicken Stew without sacrificing flavor, I recommend using skinless chicken thighs or breasts and reducing the amount of oil you use for sautéing.
You can also swap regular tortillas for whole grain or corn tortillas, which are often lower in calories. Adding more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers can bulk up the stew without adding many calories.
Finally, consider using low-sodium chicken broth to keep the sodium in check. By making these simple adjustments, you can enjoy a lighter version of this delicious dish without compromising on taste.