There are few things in life more comforting than a warm bowl of hearty stew. Add in the magic of a slow cooker, and you’ve got yourself a recipe that will not only save you time but also deliver big flavor. Meet the Creamy Crock Pot Chicken Pierogi Stew the perfect solution for busy nights when you want something hearty, delicious, and just a little bit indulgent. This is one of those recipes that will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen, whether you’re looking for something to feed the family or impress your guests with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Crock Pot Chicken Pierogi Stew
If you’ve ever had pierogis those little pockets of joy stuffed with cheesy goodness then you already know how comforting they can be. Now, imagine taking that same creamy, comforting goodness and turning it into a soup. Add some chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy base, and you’ve got Creamy Crock Pot Chicken Pierogi Stew. It’s everything you love about a hearty stew but with a twist that’s sure to surprise and delight.
Not only does this stew pack all the flavors of pierogi, but it’s also a total lifesaver for busy days. If you’re juggling work, kids, or just life in general, you’ll appreciate the simplicity of tossing everything into the crockpot and letting it work its magic. You get to relax while the stew simmers away, filling your home with the kind of aroma that’ll make your stomach growl in anticipation. And best of all? It’s incredibly easy to make.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we dive into the recipe steps, let’s make sure you’ve got everything you need for this Creamy Crock Pot Chicken Pierogi Stew. Here’s what you’ll be gathering for your delicious adventure:
- 3 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or chicken thighs, if you prefer a richer flavor)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup sliced carrots (fresh is best, but frozen will work too)
- 1 cup sliced celery (perfect for adding that fresh crunch)
- 1 small onion, diced (the base for flavor)
- 4 cups chicken stock (you can use low-sodium for a healthier option)
- 2 (10.5-ounce) cans cream of chicken soup with herbs (this is the secret to creamy comfort)
- ½ cup heavy cream (the magic ingredient that makes it extra rich)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (because who doesn’t love garlic?)
- ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (for that savory, herby kick)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water (to make a slurry for thickening)
Cooking Steps: Let the Crock Pot Do the Hard Work
Alright, now that you’ve got all your ingredients lined up, let’s get to the fun part: cooking! Don’t worry, the crockpot takes care of most of the heavy lifting, so you don’t have to be chained to the stove. Here’s how you can get your Creamy Crock Pot Chicken Pierogi Stew going:
- Prep Your Chicken: Start by seasoning your chicken with the black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Just give it a quick rub, and you’re ready to go. This will ensure the chicken is full of flavor right from the start.
- Toss It All In: Layer your chicken breasts (or thighs) at the bottom of your crockpot. Then, add the sliced carrots, celery, and diced onion on top. These veggies will bring a pop of color and freshness to your stew.
- Pour the Good Stuff In: Pour in the chicken stock and the cream of chicken soup with herbs. This is what gives the stew its rich, creamy texture. Stir everything together gently to combine.
- Add the Garlic and Italian Seasoning: Sprinkle in the minced garlic and dried Italian seasoning. The garlic will infuse the stew with an irresistible aroma, and the Italian seasoning will add depth to the flavor.
- Set It and Forget It: Now, cover the crockpot, set it on low, and let it cook for 6 to 7 hours. That’s right just let it sit while you go about your day. No need to stir or babysit it.
- Shred the Chicken: Once your stew is cooked, remove the chicken breasts from the crockpot and shred them with two forks. It should come apart easily. Then, return the shredded chicken back into the stew.
- Thicken the Stew: To get that perfect creamy consistency, mix the cornstarch and water in a small bowl to make a slurry. Stir it into the stew and cook for an additional 20-30 minutes, until the stew thickens up nicely.
- Add the Cream: Finally, stir in the heavy cream. This will make your stew even richer and creamier. Give it a taste don’t be afraid to add a little more salt or pepper if it needs a boost!
- Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the Creamy Crock Pot Chicken Pierogi Stew into bowls and serve hot. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top wouldn’t hurt if you’re feeling fancy!
Cooking Tips: A Little Help for the Busy Cook
I know you’ve got a million things going on, so here are a few tips to make this recipe even easier:
- Chicken Thighs = Flavor: If you want extra flavor, try using chicken thighs instead of breasts. They stay juicier and add richness to the stew. Plus, they’re super forgiving if you cook them a little longer!
- Frozen Veggies Work: Don’t have fresh carrots or celery on hand? No problem! Frozen veggies will work just fine. Just toss them in and let the crockpot do its thing.
- Cornstarch Hack: If you’re in a rush and forgot the cornstarch, you can always use a little flour or arrowroot powder as a thickener. It’s not the same, but it’ll still get the job done.
- Sour Cream Swirl: Feeling adventurous? Add a spoonful of sour cream right before serving for an extra tangy twist.
FAQs About This Recipe
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! This stew is perfect for meal prep. You can make it a day ahead, and it’ll taste even better after the flavors have had time to meld together.
Can I freeze this stew?
Absolutely! This stew freezes beautifully. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.
Can I substitute the cream of chicken soup with something else?
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, you can use a can of low-fat cream of chicken soup or even make your own creamy base with a little milk and cornstarch. However, the cream of chicken soup adds that signature flavor, so I recommend sticking with it if possible!
Conclusion
There’s something about a bowl of stew that feels like a warm hug on a cold day. Creamy Crock Pot Chicken Pierogi Stew takes the comforting flavors of pierogis and turns them into an easy, one-pot meal that your whole family will love. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters, navigating a busy schedule, or just craving something cozy, this stew has got your back. And the best part? You won’t have to spend hours in the kitchen to make it.
So go ahead give this recipe a try, and prepare to have your heart and your stomach full. It’s easy, delicious, and guaranteed to be a hit at your table. Enjoy!
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Creamy Crock Pot Chicken Pierogi Stew
- Total Time: 43 minute
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Creamy Crock Pot Chicken Pierogi Stew is a hearty, delicious slow-cooked meal made with chicken, pierogi, and a rich creamy broth.
Ingredients
- 3 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or chicken thighs)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup sliced carrots
- 1 cup sliced celery
- 1 small onion, diced
- 4 cups chicken stock
- 2 (10.5-ounce) cans cream of chicken soup with herbs
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
1. Place the chicken breasts in the Crock Pot and season with salt, pepper, thyme, and parsley.
2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, chicken broth, and butter. Stir to combine.
3. Cook on low for 5-6 hours or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
4. Shred the chicken using two forks and return it to the Crock Pot.
5. Add the frozen pierogi and heavy cream to the stew, and stir to combine.
6. Cook for an additional 30-45 minutes, until the pierogi is heated through.
7. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
8. Serve hot, garnished with extra parsley if desired.
Notes
- You can use any type of pierogi, but cheese or potato work best for this recipe.
- For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or milk.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5-6 hours on low in the Crock Pot
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (1 bowl)
- Calories: 450 calories
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Crock Pot, Chicken, Pierogi, Stew, Creamy, Slow Cooker, Hearty