There’s something incredibly comforting about the slow, rich melding of flavors in a hearty stew, especially when it’s as simple as tossing everything into a slow cooker and letting it do the work. This Slow Cooker Chicken & Sweet Potato Stew has quickly become my go-to when I crave a home-cooked meal that feels nurturing without the fuss. The sweetness of tender sweet potatoes perfectly balances the savory chicken and earthy spices, creating a bowl of warmth that’s both satisfying and wholesome. Whether you’re winding down after a busy day or planning ahead for easy weeknight dinners, this recipe is a delicious way to bring comfort and nutrition together without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why choose Slow Cooker Chicken & Sweet Potato Stew?
Ease and convenience: Simply set it and forget it, perfect for busy days. Nutrient-packed: Sweet potatoes add vitamins and natural sweetness to every bite. Deep, comforting flavors: Slow cooking melds spices and ingredients into a rich, hearty stew. Versatile for everyone: Great as a family dinner or meal prep for the week. Crowd-pleaser: Balanced savory and sweet tastes delight both adults and kids alike.
Slow Cooker Chicken & Sweet Potato Stew Ingredients
For the Stew Base
- Chicken thighs – Use boneless, skinless for tender, flavorful meat that stays juicy after slow cooking.
- Sweet potatoes – Peel and chop into cubes; they add natural sweetness and creamy texture.
- Onion – Sauté first for a mellow, aromatic foundation that enhances the stew’s depth.
- Garlic cloves – Mince for a fragrant boost that complements the hearty flavors.
- Carrots – Slice to add earthy sweetness and color contrast.
- Celery stalks – Chop finely for subtle savory notes and texture variation.
For the Broth & Seasoning
- Chicken broth – Use low sodium to control saltiness while enriching the stew’s body.
- Diced tomatoes – Bring acidity and subtle tang to balance the sweetness of sweet potatoes.
- Smoked paprika – Adds warm earthiness and a mild smoky hint that lifts the whole dish.
- Ground cumin – A key spice that pairs beautifully with sweet potatoes and chicken.
- Fresh thyme – Use sprigs for aromatic herbal depth; remove before serving.
- Salt and pepper – Season to taste, elevating all flavors without overpowering.
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh parsley or cilantro – Sprinkle chopped herbs before serving for a burst of freshness.
- Greek yogurt or sour cream – Add a dollop on top for creamy contrast and richness.
This thoughtfully curated set of Slow Cooker Chicken & Sweet Potato Stew ingredients brings balance, ease, and deep, comforting flavors straight from your kitchen to your table.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken & Sweet Potato Stew
- Prep Vegetables: Peel and chop sweet potatoes into 1-inch cubes, slice carrots, finely chop celery and onion, and mince garlic for aromatic depth.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm oil and sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and celery until soft and lightly golden, about 5 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Transfer sautéed veggies to the slow cooker; add chicken thighs, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, smoked paprika, cumin, thyme sprigs, salt, and pepper.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours (or HIGH for 3–4 hours) until chicken is juicy and flavors are deeply melded.
- Shred Chicken: Use two forks to shred the meat right in the cooker; stir it back into the broth for even, savory pieces in every bite.
- Add Sweet Potatoes: Stir in sweet potato cubes, then cook on HIGH for an additional 1–1½ hours until potatoes are tender but still hold their shape.
- Garnish & Serve: Remove thyme stems, taste and adjust seasoning. Ladle hot stew into bowls, top with parsley or a dollop of yogurt.
Optional: Serve with crusty bread to soak up every savory, sweet drop.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Chicken & Sweet Potato Stew
- Fridge: Store leftover stew in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will keep the flavors fresh while preventing spoilage.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Ensure there’s minimal air to prevent freezer burn.
- Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then heat in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through. Add a splash of chicken broth if it’s too thick.
- Serving Tip: If reheating from frozen, simmer gently on the stovetop until heated thoroughly to retain the lovely texture of the chicken and sweet potatoes.
Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Chicken & Sweet Potato Stew
- Layer Flavors: Always sauté onions, garlic, and other aromatics first to build a rich flavor base before slow cooking the stew.
- Don’t Overcook Sweet Potatoes: Add sweet potatoes later in the cooking process to keep their texture tender yet intact, avoiding mushy stew.
- Use Bone-In Thighs for Juiciness: If possible, choose bone-in chicken thighs to enhance flavor and moisture; shred carefully after cooking.
- Season Gradually: Add salt and spices in stages and taste at the end to avoid over-seasoning your slow cooker chicken & sweet potato stew.
- Keep It Covered: Resist the urge to lift the lid often; maintaining temperature prevents prolonged cook times and flavor loss.
- Customize Herbs: Fresh thyme adds depth but remove stems before serving to prevent fibrous bites and preserve smooth texture.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Slow Cooker Chicken & Sweet Potato Stew ahead of time not only saves precious minutes on busy weeknights but also allows the flavors to develop even further! You can chop the sweet potatoes, onions, carrots, and celery up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can sauté the aromatics (onion, garlic, carrots, and celery) and refrigerate them for up to 3 days to enhance the stew’s depth. When you’re ready to serve, just combine the sautéed veggies with the chicken and spices in the slow cooker, and let it work its magic. Simply add the sweet potatoes in the last hour of cooking, and you’ll enjoy a delicious, hearty meal with minimal fuss!
Variations & Substitutions for Slow Cooker Chicken & Sweet Potato Stew
Feel free to play with this recipe and make it your own; there’s nothing quite like a personal touch in a warm, hearty stew!
- Vegetarian: Substitute chicken with chickpeas or lentils and vegetable broth for a lovely plant-based twist. They add a nice texture and protein boost.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to ramp up the heat and awaken your taste buds. You’ll love the zesty flair!
- Sweet Potato Alternative: Swap in butternut squash for a different kind of sweetness and beautiful fall color, making your stew even more vibrant.
- Add Greens: Toss in chopped kale or spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking for an extra dose of nutrients and a pop of color in every bowl.
- Herb Swap: If you don’t have fresh thyme, dried Italian herbs or a sprinkle of rosemary can offer a lovely earthy note that complements the stew perfectly.
- Creaminess Boost: Stir in a splash of coconut milk just before serving for a creamy consistency and a subtle tropical flavor that brings new depth.
- Beans for Fiber: Add a can of drained black beans or white beans towards the end of cooking for a creamy texture and extra fiber without compromising flavor.
- Citrus Zest: A sprinkle of lime or lemon zest just before serving brightens the dish and adds a refreshing note that contrasts beautifully with the rich stew.
Explore these variations and discover your own favorite spin on this comforting classic!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Chicken & Sweet Potato Stew?
Nothing completes a cozy stew like the perfect pairings to elevate your meal and delight your senses.
- Crusty Bread: Ideal for soaking up the rich broth, adding a satisfying texture that complements each bite of the stew.
- Simple Green Salad: A fresh mix of greens with a light vinaigrette provides a crisp contrast, balancing the hearty flavors beautifully.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smooth, buttery texture of mashed potatoes creates a comforting base that pairs seamlessly with the stew’s heartiness.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their earthy flavor and caramelized crunch offer a delightful bite, enhancing the overall meal’s complexity.
- Savory Cornbread: Sweet, crumbly cornbread is a delightful addition that harmonizes with the stew’s savory notes and rounds out the dining experience.
- Apple Crisp: A warm dessert, its tartness and sweetness provide a perfect contrast to the savory stew, making for a charming finish to the meal.
- Herbal Iced Tea: An aromatic beverage option, light yet refreshing, that complements the stew and keeps you cozy without being overly heavy.
- Chardonnay Wine: This versatile white wine’s citrus notes and crisp acidity can beautifully echo the flavors in your stew, making each sip a culinary delight.
- Spiced Chai Latte: For a comforting drink pairing, the warm spices of chai echo the earthy tones in the stew, enhancing the cozy atmosphere.
Slow Cooker Chicken & Sweet Potato Stew Recipe FAQs
How do I know when the sweet potatoes are ripe and ready to use?
Choose sweet potatoes that are firm with smooth skin, free from dark spots or bruises. Avoid ones that feel soft or have sprouted—they won’t hold up well in the stew.
What’s the best way to store leftover Slow Cooker Chicken & Sweet Potato Stew?
Let the stew cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags for up to 3 months.
Can I freeze Slow Cooker Chicken & Sweet Potato Stew? If so, how?
Absolutely! Portion the stew into airtight containers or zip-top freezer bags, leaving about an inch of headspace for expansion. Label with the date and freeze flat if using bags to save space. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stovetop until piping hot.
What can I do if my stew turns out too watery?
No worries! To thicken the stew, simmer it uncovered on the stove for 10–15 minutes to reduce excess liquid. Alternatively, stir in a slurry of 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water, then cook until thickened to your liking.
Is this stew safe for pets if I want to share a little?
It’s best not to share this stew with pets because of the spices, onions, and garlic, which can be harmful to them. Instead, stick to pet-safe treats and meals to keep your furry friends healthy and happy!
Easy Slow Cooker Chicken & Sweet Potato Stew You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Peel and chop sweet potatoes into 1-inch cubes, slice carrots, finely chop celery and onion, and mince garlic for aromatic depth.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, warm oil and sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and celery until soft and lightly golden, about 5 minutes.
- Transfer sautéed veggies to the slow cooker; add chicken thighs, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, smoked paprika, cumin, thyme sprigs, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours (or HIGH for 3–4 hours) until chicken is juicy and flavors are deeply melded.
- Use two forks to shred the meat right in the cooker; stir it back into the broth for even, savory pieces in every bite.
- Stir in sweet potato cubes, then cook on HIGH for an additional 1–1½ hours until potatoes are tender but still hold their shape.
- Remove thyme stems, taste and adjust seasoning. Ladle hot stew into bowls, top with parsley or a dollop of yogurt.
