When the chill of evening sets in, nothing warms the soul quite like a hearty bowl of stew. I discovered this Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew during one of those lazy Sundays when all I wanted was something comforting without the fuss of a lengthy cooking process. As the scent of garlic and gochujang filled my kitchen, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. With tender chicken thighs harmonizing with vibrant veggies and a delightful umami kick, this dish is not just a meal—it’s an experience that evokes the cozy embrace of home. Best of all, it practically cooks itself! Simply toss your ingredients into the slow cooker, and before you know it, you’ll have a rich and flavorful stew that’s perfect for busy weeknights or comforting weekends. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Why is Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew irresistible?
Irresistible Comfort: This Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew is the epitome of comfort food, bringing together bold flavors and tender ingredients that hug your taste buds.
Effortless Preparation: With just a few minutes of setup, your slow cooker handles the rest, freeing your time for other activities.
Nutritionally Balanced: Each serving is not only delicious but also healthy, clocking in at around 370 calories, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
Endless Adaptability: Whether you’re looking to switch it up with vegetarian options or experiment with seasonal veggies, this recipe is versatile enough for any palate.
Crowd-Pleasing Flair: With its rich, savory profile, this stew is sure to impress family and friends alike, turning any meal into a delightful gathering.
Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew Ingredients
Discover the must-have ingredients for this delightful dish!
For the Stew
- Chicken Thighs – Main protein that provides richness; they’re juicier than chicken breasts.
- Onion – Adds a sweet depth of flavor; yellow or white onion work best.
- Carrot – Offers natural sweetness and texture; parsnips can be an interesting substitute.
- Mushrooms – Brings umami and heartiness; use any variety you enjoy.
- Garlic – Essential for that aromatic kick; feel free to add extra for more flavor.
- Gochujang – The star of the show with its spicy, fermented essence; ensure it’s a high-quality paste for the best flavor.
- Soy Sauce – Delivers savory depth; replace with gluten-free soy sauce if needed.
- Brown Sugar – Balances the spices; honey or maple syrup can work in a pinch.
- Sesame Oil – Imbues the stew with nutty flavor; vegetable oil can be a milder alternative.
- Chicken Stock – Forms the rich broth; vegetable stock is perfect for a vegetarian variation.
- Spring Onions – Adds a fresh, vibrant garnish; chives can also be used.
- Cornstarch – Thickens the stew beautifully; arrowroot or flour can substitute if needed.
- Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to your taste preferences.
Note: These ingredients come together to create an irresistible Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew that warms your heart and home!
How to Make Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew
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Add Ingredients: Toss chicken thighs, chopped onion, carrot, mushrooms, minced garlic, gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and chicken stock into your slow cooker. This creates a wonderful blend of flavors right from the start!
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Stir Together: Gently stir the ingredients to ensure everything is well combined. You should see a colorful mix that promises deliciousness.
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Cook: Cover your slow cooker and set it to high for 2-3 hours or low for 4-5 hours. When done, the chicken should be fall-apart tender and bursting with flavor.
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Thicken Stew: In the last hour of cooking, mix cornstarch with a couple of tablespoons of water to form a slurry. Stir it into the stew to thicken the sauce to perfection.
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Season: Give your stew a taste and adjust it with salt and black pepper according to your preference. This final touch enhances the overall flavor profile.
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Garnish: Before serving, sprinkle chopped spring onions on top for a fresh finish. This adds a nice crunch and a pop of color!
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Serve and Enjoy: It’s time to savor the fruits of your labor! Ladle the stew into bowls and dig in.
Optional: Add a dash of sesame seeds on top for an extra nutty flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew
- Choose Thighs Carefully: Opt for skin-on chicken thighs for enhanced flavor and moisture. If using breasts, keep an eye on cooking time to prevent dryness.
- Variety is Key: Don’t hesitate to mix in seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for a fresh twist in your Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew.
- Gochujang Balance: Adjust the amount of gochujang based on your spice tolerance; start with less and taste as you go to avoid overwhelming heat.
- Stock Quality Matters: Use a high-quality chicken or vegetable stock for a richer broth – it makes a big difference in flavor!
- Thickening Tips: If the stew appears too thin, you can add the cornstarch slurry earlier or increase the cooking time with the lid off to allow more liquid to evaporate.
Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew Variations
Feel free to let your creative side shine with these fun twists on a timeless classic!
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Vegetarian: Replace chicken with chickpeas or lentils to create a hearty plant-based stew. They’ll soak up those lovely flavors beautifully!
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Seafood: For a unique twist, substitute chicken with shrimp or fish. Just add them during the last 20-30 minutes of cooking for perfectly tender results.
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Spicy Kick: Amp up the heat by adding sliced jalapeños or a dash of chili flakes to the mix. Your taste buds will tingle with excitement!
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Nutty Flavor: Before serving, stir in a tablespoon of peanut butter for a rich, nutty background. This addition adds depth and complexity to the stew.
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Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for an aromatic flair. Add them just before serving to maintain their fresh punch!
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Savorier Broth: Enhance the umami by including some miso paste along with the gochujang. It adds a wonderful depth of flavor that’s simply divine!
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Root Veggie Swap: Experiment with root vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes for a different texture and sweetness. Each will bring its charm to the stew.
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Creamy Texture: Add a splash of coconut milk in the last hour of cooking for a luscious, creamy finish. It beautifully complements the spice of gochujang.
How to Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew
- Room Temperature: It’s best not to leave this stew out for more than 2 hours. Bacteria can quickly grow at room temperature, so refrigerate it if you aren’t serving it right away.
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will help maintain the flavors of your delicious Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew!
- Freezer: For extended storage, freeze the stew in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Be sure to leave some space for expansion as it freezes.
- Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your stew again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
Make Ahead Options
These Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the veggies (onion, carrots, mushrooms, and garlic) and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 3 days ahead. Additionally, you can marinate the chicken thighs with gochujang, soy sauce, and seasonings, letting them absorb the flavors overnight. When you’re ready to cook, simply add everything to the slow cooker, cover, and let it do its magic. To maintain the stew’s quality, refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring a warm, satisfying meal for busy weeknights that tastes just as delicious as day one!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew?
When cozy warmth and delightful flavors are calling, it’s time to create the perfect dining experience alongside your stew.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy texture absorbs all that delicious sauce, making each bite a satisfying treat. There’s nothing like warm rice to complement all the rich flavors of the stew.
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Quinoa Salad: A refreshing, nutty side that adds a healthy crunch. Toss some colorful veggies and a light vinaigrette to create contrast to the stew’s warmth.
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Kimchi: This spicy, fermented side adds vibrant flavor and a probiotic punch. The tanginess of kimchi beautifully balances the rich flavors of the stew.
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Pickled Vegetables: A crunchy, tangy addition that adds brightness and cleanses the palate between bites. Try a mix of cucumbers and radishes for a delightful zing.
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Garlic Naan: Soft, buttery naan that’s perfect for soaking up every bit of the savory sauce. A beautiful fusion of flavors, it transforms the meal into a delightful experience.
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Crispy Egg Rolls: These crunchy delights add a lovely texture contrast alongside your stew. Filled with vegetables and spices, they’re sure to please everyone at the table.
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Chilled Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and light, this salad helps cool the palate. Toss fresh cucumbers with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and rice vinegar for zingy flair.
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Herbal Tea: A warm, aromatic cup is the perfect drink to enjoy with the meal. Ginger tea pairs well with the spicy notes of the stew, enhancing the overall flavor experience.
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, indulge in a light and creamy chocolate mousse. Its richness serves as a lovely finish to the savory meal, leaving everyone satisfied!
Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for this stew?
Absolutely! Using chicken thighs is highly recommended as they provide more richness and moisture compared to chicken breasts, ensuring your stew is wonderfully tender and flavorful. If you prefer leaner meat, you can use chicken breasts, but be cautious with cooking time as they can dry out more easily.
How should I store leftovers of Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew?
Store your leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to let it cool down before sealing it up, which helps maintain its delicious flavors!
Can Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew be frozen?
Yes, indeed! You can freeze the stew for up to 3 months. Just portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion, then seal tightly. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until piping hot.
What can I do if my stew is too thin?
If your stew turns out a little thin, no worries! Mix equal parts cornstarch and water in a separate bowl to create a slurry, then stir it into the stew during the last hour of cooking. This will help thicken it beautifully. Alternatively, you can leave the lid off a bit longer to allow some liquid to evaporate and concentrate the flavors.
Are there any dietary considerations for Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew?
Absolutely! If you have gluten sensitivities, opt for gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce. For a vegetarian variation, simply substitute the chicken with chickpeas or lentils and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock for a hearty stew that everyone can enjoy.
Savory Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Toss chicken thighs, chopped onion, carrot, mushrooms, minced garlic, gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and chicken stock into your slow cooker.
- Gently stir the ingredients to ensure everything is well combined.
- Cover your slow cooker and set it to high for 2-3 hours or low for 4-5 hours.
- In the last hour of cooking, mix cornstarch with a couple of tablespoons of water to form a slurry and stir it into the stew.
- Adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper according to your preference.
- Sprinkle chopped spring onions on top for garnish before serving.
- Ladle the stew into bowls and enjoy!