Name: Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 240 min
Total time: 255 min
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken thighs (boneless, skinless); 2 cups potatoes (diced); 1 cup carrots (sliced); 1 cup onion (chopped); 4 cloves garlic (minced); 1 cup Korean BBQ sauce; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp sesame oil; 1 tbsp ginger (grated)

Imagine the aroma of tender chicken simmering in a rich, savory broth infused with garlic, ginger, and soy sauce wafting through your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. This Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew is not just a dish; it’s an experience that warms your soul and tickles your taste buds with each hearty bite.

As you scoop up the stew’s thick, luscious texture, memories of cozy family dinners and laughter-filled gatherings come rushing back. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a special occasion, this comforting recipe promises to transform any meal into a delightful celebration of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why Will You Keep Making Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew?

Comforting and hearty, this stew warms you from the inside out, making it perfect for chilly evenings. Easy preparation means just 15 minutes of hands-on time—then let your slow cooker do the rest! Flavor-packed ingredients like Korean BBQ sauce and fresh garlic create a deliciously rich taste that’s sure to impress. Versatile and customizable, you can easily swap in your favorite veggies or adjust the spice level. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings!

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew

For the Stew
1 lb chicken thighs (boneless, skinless) – These tender cuts infuse the stew with rich flavor and stay juicy during cooking.
2 cups potatoes (diced) – Diced potatoes add heartiness and absorb the delicious broth, making every bite satisfying.
1 cup carrots (sliced) – Sweet sliced carrots balance the savory elements and bring vibrant color to your dish.
1 cup onion (chopped) – Chopped onions provide a sweet base flavor that enhances the overall taste of the stew.
4 cloves garlic (minced) – Fresh minced garlic adds aromatic depth and a hint of spice to the recipe.

For the Sauce
1 cup Korean BBQ sauce – This sauce is essential for that signature Korean flavor, combining sweetness and umami in every spoonful.
2 cups chicken broth – Use low-sodium broth for a well-balanced stew that won’t overpower the flavors of the ingredients.
1 tbsp soy sauce – A splash of soy sauce intensifies the savory notes, rounding out the dish beautifully.
1 tbsp sesame oil – This oil adds a nutty richness that complements the other flavors perfectly.
1 tbsp ginger (grated) – Fresh grated ginger offers a warm spice that elevates your Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew with zest.

How to Make Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew

1. Combine Ingredients: Place all the delicious ingredients, including 1 lb of boneless, skinless chicken thighs, 2 cups of diced potatoes, 1 cup of sliced carrots, and more into the slow cooker.

2. Mix Well: Stir everything together to ensure that the flavors meld beautifully. The minced garlic and grated ginger will add a wonderful aroma to your dish!

3. Cook Slowly: Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 4 to 6 hours. This gentle cooking will transform your chicken into tender bites of goodness while the vegetables soften perfectly.

4. Serve Warm: Once cooked, serve your hearty stew hot! Garnish with green onions if desired for an extra pop of flavor and color.

Optional: Garnish with sesame seeds for added crunch.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips

Chicken Choice: Use boneless, skinless thighs for tenderness; they hold moisture well, ensuring your Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew is juicy and flavorful.

Veggie Prep: Cut potatoes and carrots into uniform pieces to promote even cooking. This prevents mushy or undercooked vegetables in your stew.

Garlic Freshness: Always use fresh minced garlic for that robust flavor. Pre-minced garlic lacks the same vibrant taste, which is crucial for this dish.

Sauce Balance: Adjust the Korean BBQ sauce based on your taste preference. If it’s too sweet, adding a splash more soy sauce can help balance the flavors.

Cooking Time: Avoid lifting the lid during cooking unless necessary. Each time you peek, you add extra cooking time as heat escapes, affecting tenderness.

How to Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew

Fridge: Store your Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Let it cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the stew in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Make sure to leave some space at the top as it expands when frozen.

Reheating: To enjoy your stew again, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until piping hot, stirring occasionally.

Leftovers: If you have any leftover ingredients like chicken or veggies, use them within 1-2 days to prevent spoilage and ensure maximum flavor.

Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew Your Way

Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own delightfully comforting dish!

Spicy Kick: Add 1-2 tablespoons of gochujang for an extra layer of heat and depth. This Korean chili paste brings a beautiful balance of spice and sweetness, elevating the stew’s flavor profile while warming you from the inside out.

Vegetable Boost: Substitute half the potatoes with sweet potatoes or add in bell peppers for added color and nutrition. Sweet potatoes will lend a subtle sweetness that beautifully complements the rich flavors of the stew, making every bite a little more exciting.

Herb Infusion: Toss in a handful of fresh spinach or bok choy during the last hour of cooking for extra greens. The vibrant greens not only add nutrition but also a lovely pop of color to your dish, making it visually appealing as well as nourishing.

Umami Twist: Swap out half the chicken broth for mushroom broth to intensify the savory notes. This simple change introduces an earthy richness that enhances every spoonful, creating a deeper flavor experience.

Coconut Creamy: Replace chicken broth with coconut milk for a creamy, tropical twist. The coconut milk adds a luscious texture and subtly sweet flavor that harmonizes perfectly with the spices, turning your stew into a comforting hug in a bowl.

Protein Variety: Try using beef chuck or tofu instead of chicken for different protein options. Each choice will bring its unique character to the stew; beef will add heartiness while tofu offers a wonderful plant-based alternative that soaks up all those delicious flavors.

Garlic Lovers: Increase garlic to 6 cloves or add roasted garlic for an aromatic boost. The intensified garlic flavor will create an irresistible aroma that’ll have everyone eagerly awaiting dinner time!

Make Ahead Options

Preparing Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew is a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy hearty comfort food even on your busiest days. You can easily dice 2 cups of potatoes, slice 1 cup of carrots, chop 1 cup of onion, and mince 4 cloves of garlic in advance—these can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can combine the chicken thighs with the Korean BBQ sauce, chicken broth, soy sauce, sesame oil, and grated ginger ahead of time and keep this mixture marinating for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply place all prepped ingredients into the slow cooker, stir to combine well, cover, and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours until the chicken is tender. This way, you save time while ensuring that your Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew is as delicious as ever!

Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken should I use for this recipe?

For this Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal. They stay juicy and tender while cooking, making them perfect for the slow cooker. If preferred, you can substitute with chicken breasts, but keep an eye on the cooking time as they can dry out more easily.

Can I add more vegetables to the stew?

Absolutely! This stew is versatile, so feel free to include additional veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or even green beans. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes as the carrots and potatoes so they cook evenly within the 4 to 6 hours.

How should I store leftovers from this stew?

If you have any leftovers (which is rare because it’s so delicious!), let the stew cool completely before transferring it into an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for about 2-3 months. Just remember to label your containers!

What if my chicken isn’t tender after 6 hours of cooking?

If your chicken isn’t tender after 6 hours on low heat, it might be due to variations in slow cooker temperatures. Every slow cooker is different! You can try cooking it for an additional hour or so until it’s fork-tender. Adding a splash more chicken broth can help if the stew looks too thick.

Is this stew gluten-free?

To make this Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew gluten-free, simply substitute the soy sauce with a gluten-free version or tamari. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so you can enjoy this comforting meal without worry!

How many servings does this recipe yield?

This recipe yields about 4 servings, making it perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the week! Each serving comes in at around 350 calories, providing a hearty yet healthy option that everyone will love.