Fall is here, which means it’s time to pull out your coziest sweaters, stock up on seasonal ingredients, and get cooking! From hearty soups to warm casseroles, autumn is the season for comfort food, and the right kitchen tools make all the difference. Whether you’re whipping up pumpkin bread, slow-cooked stews, or apple pies, these 10 fall kitchen essentials will help you create delicious, cozy meals all season long.
Why You Need Different Kitchen Tools For Fall
When cooler weather sets in, our cooking naturally shifts. Lighter summer meals give way to cozy soups, hearty casseroles, and spiced baked goods.
Having the right tools on hand not only makes these dishes easier to prepare but also ensures they turn out delicious every time.
Looking for everything you need for fall baking? Check out this list of Baking Essentials to get your kitchen ready for baking season.
Fall Kitchen Essentials
Crock-Pot 7-Quart Slow Cooker with Portable Programmable with Timer and Locking Lid
Perfect for chili, soups, and stews. Just toss in your ingredients in the morning, and by dinner, you’ve got a warm, hearty meal ready to serve.
A must-have for braised meats, homemade bread, and big-batch soups. Cast iron retains heat beautifully, making it ideal for fall cooking.
Braun MultiQuick 7 3-in-1 Immersion Blender with Food Processor
Blend creamy butternut squash or pumpkin soups right in the pot without extra dishes. A game-changer for smooth fall recipes.
ROTTAY Baking Sheet with Rack Set
From roasted root vegetables to pumpkin cookies, quality baking sheets ensure even cooking, while cooling racks are a must for holiday baking.
Lodge 12 Inch Cast Iron Skillet
Crispy cornbread, skillet apple crisp, or seared pork chops, this versatile pan works on the stovetop and in the oven for endless fall recipes.
KitchenAid Classic Series 4.5 Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer
Essential for whipping up pumpkin pies, breads, and cookies. A stand mixer makes baking for holiday gatherings a breeze.
DOWAN 9x13 Casserole Dish
Cheesy casseroles, baked pastas, and gratins are fall staples. A durable dish goes from oven to table beautifully.
OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Ladle
A simple but often overlooked tool. It’s perfect for serving cozy soups and hearty stews on chilly evenings.
Mora Ceramic Deep Fluted Pie Dish
Because what’s fall without apple pie, pumpkin pie, or pecan pie? A reliable pie dish is a must-have for seasonal baking.
Freshly ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves elevate fall baking and cooking with warm, aromatic flavor.
Some Of Our Favorite Fall Dishes
- Low Carb Pumpkin Pie
- Chicken Pot Pie Casserole
- Caldo de Pollo
- Butternut Squash Soup
- Skillet Cornbread
Fall is all about creating comfort in the kitchen. With these 10 fall kitchen essentials, you’ll be ready to bake, simmer, roast, and serve all the cozy recipes that make this season so special. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or planning a holiday feast, these tools are worth having on hand. They make wonderful gift ideas, too!
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If you’re craving cozy comfort food that practically cooks itself, this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is the answer. It’s hearty, flavorful, and loaded with tender chicken, veggies, and a savory broth that thickens into the perfect stew consistency. With just a few minutes of prep, you can let your crockpot do the work while your kitchen fills with mouthwatering aromas
Why You’ll Love This Spectacular Stew
- Hearty & Filling. Packed with protein, veggies, and potatoes for a complete one-pot meal.
- Effortless Cooking. Just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it simmer to perfection.
- Family-Friendly. A dish everyone loves, from kids to adults.
- Make-Ahead Friendly. Perfect for meal prep, reheats beautifully, and even freezes well.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want leftovers for the week, this Slow Cooker Chicken Stew will quickly become a staple in your recipe rotation.
What Does Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Taste Like?
Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is the ultimate comfort food. The chicken turns melt-in-your-mouth tender, the vegetables absorb the savory broth, and the stew develops layers of flavor as it cooks low and slow.
Unlike stovetop versions, the crockpot method guarantees ease without sacrificing taste. It’s a wholesome, nourishing dish that warms you from the inside out.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Chicken Thighs or Breasts - The star protein of the stew. Thighs provide more richness and tenderness as they cook slowly, while chicken breasts are a leaner option if you prefer less fat.
- Potatoes - Hearty and filling, they absorb the flavors of the broth while holding their shape, making the stew more substantial.
- Carrots - Add a natural sweetness and a pop of color that balances the savory broth.
- Celery - A key aromatic that brings depth and classic stew flavor to the base.
- Onion & Garlic - Build the savory backbone of the stew, adding aroma and flavor complexity.
- Chicken Broth - Forms the liquid base of the stew, infusing everything with rich, savory flavor; low-sodium broth allows better control over seasoning.
- Tomato Paste - Adds a subtle tang and deepens the broth’s flavor with a touch of richness.
- Bay Leaf & Thyme - Earthy, aromatic herbs that slowly infuse the stew with comforting flavor as it simmers.
- Salt & Pepper - Essential seasonings that bring balance and enhance every layer of flavor.
- Cornstarch Slurry - Used to thicken the stew if you prefer a richer, creamier consistency.
How To Make Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
- Prepare the Ingredients. Chop your potatoes, carrots, celery, and onion into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic for that extra savory punch.
- Add to Slow Cooker. Place chicken, vegetables, garlic, broth, tomato paste, and seasonings into the crockpot. Stir to combine.
- Slow Cook. Cover and cook on Low for 7–8 hours or High for 3–4 hours, until chicken and veggies are tender.
- Dice & Thicken. Remove the chicken, chop it into bite-sized chunks, and return it to the pot. If desired, stir in a cornstarch slurry to thicken the broth.
- Garnish & Serve. Remove bay leaf, taste for seasoning, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Pair with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Tips And Tricks
Making Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is all about building deep, comforting flavors while letting the slow cooker do the hard work. With just a few simple techniques, you can take your stew from good to unforgettable. Here are some tips and tricks to help you get it just right:
- Cut Vegetables Evenly. Uniform pieces ensure even cooking.
- Add Greens at the End. Stir in spinach or kale during the last 15 minutes for extra nutrients.
- Adjust Thickness. For a creamier stew, stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk before serving.
Variations
One of the best things about Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is how versatile it can be. You can easily switch up ingredients to match your taste, dietary needs, or whatever you have on hand. Here are some delicious variations to try:
- Creamy- Add a half cup of heavy cream or coconut milk for a rich, creamy broth.
- Spicy- Stir in a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a kick.
- Gluten-Free- Skip flour-based thickeners and use cornstarch or arrowroot slurry.
- Low-Carb- Swap potatoes for cauliflower florets.
What To Eat With Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Slow Cooker Chicken Stew is hearty and satisfying on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can make your meal even more comforting and complete. Here are some delicious options to enjoy with it:
- Bread or Dinner Rolls - Perfect for soaking up the savory broth.
- Salad - A light, fresh green salad balances the richness of the stew.
- Rice or Quinoa - Serve the stew over grains for an even heartier meal.
- Roasted Vegetables - Complement the stew with roasted Brussels sprouts, green beans, or squash.
How Long Does It Last?
Slow Cooker Chicken Stew lasts 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Can You Freeze It?
Yes! This stew freezes beautifully. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Lay flat for easier storage.
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat until hot. The flavors often taste even better after freezing, making this an excellent meal prep recipe.
More Simple Slow Cooker Recipes
- Hawaiian Meatballs
- Pulled Pork Sliders
- Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
- Crock Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup
- Little Smokies
Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe | Easy And Comforting Stew
Ingredients
- ▢ 2 pounds Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
- ▢ 1 1/2 pounds Russet Potatoes , peeled and cubed
- ▢ 3 Carrots , diced
- ▢ 2 stalks Celery , chopped
- ▢ 1 Onion , diced
- ▢ 4 cups Chicken Broth
- ▢ 2 tbsp Tomato Paste
- ▢ 1 Bay Leaf
- ▢ 1 tsp Dried Thyme
- ▢ 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt
- ▢ 1/4 tsp Ground Black pepper
- ▢ 2 tbsp Cornstarch , optional, for thickening
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients. Chop your potatoes, carrots, celery, and onion into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic for that extra savory punch.
- Add to Slow Cooker. Place chicken, vegetables, garlic, broth, tomato paste, and seasonings into the crockpot. Stir to combine.
- Slow Cook. Cover and cook on Low for 7–8 hours or High for 3–4 hours, until chicken and veggies are tender.
- Shred & Thicken. Remove the chicken, chop it into bite-sized pieces, and return it to the pot. If desired, stir in a cornstarch slurry to thicken the broth.
- Garnish & Serve. Remove bay leaf, taste for seasoning, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Pair with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
