Herbed Chicken and Potato Stew

Ingredients

• 2 pounds boneless chicken thighs (900 g)
• 1 pound Yukon Gold potatoes (454 g)
• 3 large carrots, chopped (240 g)
• 3 celery ribs, chopped (150 g)
• 1 yellow onion, diced (180 g)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced (9 g)
• 4 cups chicken broth (960 g)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (1 g)
• 1 teaspoon fine salt (6 g)
• 1 cup frozen peas (140 g)
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch (24 g)
• 3 tablespoons cold water (45 g)
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (8 g)

Instructions

1. Layer dense vegetables first. Place potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic in the slow-cooker insert. Season chicken with thyme and salt, then arrange it in one layer over the vegetables. Pour broth around the sides so the seasoning stays on the chicken and the vegetables remain closest to the heated crock.
2. Cook to separate cues. Cover and cook on low until potatoes yield to a knife without crumbling and the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). Transfer chicken to a clean board. Cut it into broad bite-size pieces rather than fine shreds, which makes the finished stew look and eat more substantial.
3. Whisk a smooth slurry. Switch the cooker to high. Whisk cornstarch and cold water until no dry pockets remain, then stream the slurry into the bubbling broth while stirring. Cover briefly and continue until the liquid turns glossy and a spoon drawn across the insert leaves a trail that closes slowly.
4. Return and finish. Fold chicken and frozen peas into the thickened stew. Cover just until the peas are hot and bright, then taste for salt and thyme. Ladle from the bottom so every bowl receives potatoes, carrots, chicken, and broth. Add parsley only after the portions are distributed.

Notes

• Ingredient size affects timing, so favor even cuts while allowing naturally irregular arrangement.
• The decisive finished cue is tender potato edges and broth thick enough that a spoon trail closes slowly; wait for it before adding the final garnish.
• Refrigerate for 4 days and reheat portions gently, keeping fresh parsley separate until serving.

Nutrition Facts