Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Healthy & Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Dinners You’ll Want Every Night


  • Author: Jake
  • Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

This hearty and affordable slow cooker chicken and vegetable stew is perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with flavor, nutrition, and budget-friendly ingredients.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 3 carrots, chopped
  • 3 celery stalks, sliced
  • 2 potatoes, cubed (or sweet potatoes)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Dice all vegetables and cut chicken thighs into chunks. (Prep ahead the night before if desired.)
  2. Layer vegetables at the bottom of the slow cooker, then add chicken on top.
  3. Pour in diced tomatoes and broth. Add garlic, bay leaves, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Do not stir.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
  5. Optional: Mix cornstarch with water and stir into stew 30 minutes before serving to thicken.
  6. Remove bay leaves, adjust seasoning, and garnish with parsley before serving.

Notes

Perfect for batch cooking or freezing. Sweet potatoes add extra nutrition and flavor.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 hours
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 285
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 410mg
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 32g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg