As autumn unfurls its chilly mornings and crisp leaves, I find myself craving more than just pumpkin spice. I wanted a dinner that captures the essence of fall—earthy, warm, and surprisingly simple to make. So, I turned to my slow cooker, but with a twist: not your typical stew, but one infused with unexpected herbs and a hint of tangy preserved lemon.
This recipe transforms humble ingredients into a symphony of cozy flavors. The slow cooker does its magic, dissolving tender chicken into an aromatic broth that smells like a brisk autumn walk wrapped in a blanket. It’s a dish that sneaks into your kitchen, making every spoonful feel like a warm hug from the season itself.
WHY I LOVE THIS RECIPE?
- It’s a charming way to slow down and savor autumn’s bounty.
- Burnt-onion aroma that hits every time I open the lid — pure comfort.
- Perfect for busy days when fronting a full stove feels impossible.
- It’s nostalgic yet fresh, a reminder that simple ingredients can surprise.
- My family asks for seconds before dinner even finishes simmering.
AVOID MY DISASTER (You’re Welcome)
- FORGOT to add the garlic? The stew lacked depth. Next time, toss it in early with the onions.
- DUMPED too much broth? The chicken was floating. Use less for a hearty, sauce-y texture.
- OVER-TORCHED the carrots? They turned mushy. Add them later or keep a closer eye.
- SPILLED tomato paste on the counter? Clean immediately so it doesn’t glue itself to everything.
QUICK FIXES THAT SAVE YOUR DAY
- When the stew is bland, splash in a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
- Patch a watery broth by stirring in a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with cold water.
- Shield overcooked vegetables with a handful of fresh herbs before serving.
- If the smell is off, simmer a cinnamon stick or a couple of bay leaves for added warmth.
- When in doubt, stir in a spoonful of tomato paste for richness, letting it crackle as it melts.
Living through the changing seasons means embracing recipes that adapt easily. This stew is a reminder that comfort can be as effortless as tossing ingredients into a slow cooker and forgetting about it. The aromas alone make the house feel like a sanctuary on chilly days.
Besides, it’s perfect for making ahead or for serving when friends drop by unexpectedly. The flavors settle even more overnight, making leftovers a worthy second act. It’s simple, satisfying, and a little unexpected—just like autumn itself.
Autumn-Inspired Slow Cooker Chicken Stew with Preserved Lemon
Equipment
- Slow Cooker
- Sharp Knife
- Cutting Board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Stirring spoon
Ingredients
- 4 pieces bone-in chicken thighs skin-on preferred
- 2 medium carrots peeled and sliced
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 piece preserved lemon rinsed and diced
- 1 cup vegetables (e.g., potatoes or parsnips) optional, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs and sear until the skin is golden brown, about 5 minutes per side. Transfer the chicken to the slow cooker.
- Add chopped onion and sliced carrots to the skillet; sauté until the onion is translucent and carrots are slightly tender, about 5 minutes. Scrape any browned bits from the pan.
- Stir minced garlic, dried thyme, and cumin into the vegetables; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour the sautéed vegetable mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker. Add chicken broth, diced preserved lemon, and any additional vegetables if using.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for about 6 hours, until the chicken is tender and falling off the bone, and flavors meld into a fragrant broth.
- Once cooking is complete, check seasoning and adjust with salt and pepper if needed. Remove the chicken, shred or serve whole, and ladle the hearty broth and vegetables into bowls.
Turning to slow cooker recipes right now makes perfect sense. They cut down on busy prep and let ingredients mingle patiently on their own. Plus, this fall-inspired chicken stew will fill your kitchen with irresistible smells—cinnamon, herbs, and the tang of preserved lemon.
In colder months where comfort food feels essential, this dish is your quiet hero. It’s a cozy, effortless way to celebrate the season’s flavors and bring a little warmth to your table. Sometimes, all you need is a slow cooker and a handful of humble ingredients to create something truly memorable.
