Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that’s bursting with flavor and effortless to prepare? Look no further than this Slow Cooker Mexican Chicken Stew! Imagine coming home after a long day to the warm, inviting aroma of tender chicken simmering in a zesty blend of spices, tomatoes, and corn. This hearty stew is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a simple way to bring the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine to your dinner table. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can set it and forget it, allowing your slow cooker to work its magic while you go about your day. Trust us, your family will be begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken thighs
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 can corn, drained
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by trimming excess fat from chicken thighs and cutting into large chunks if desired.
- Chop onion finely and mince garlic cloves, setting aside for later use.
- In a large slow cooker, place chicken thighs as the first layer at the bottom of the pot.
- Sprinkle chopped onions and minced garlic evenly over the chicken.
- Add drained corn kernels across the top of the chicken and onion mixture.
- Pour entire can of diced tomatoes over the ingredients, ensuring even distribution.
- Season the mixture by sprinkling cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper across the top.
- Cover slow cooker and set to low heat setting for 6 hours.
- After 6 hours, check chicken for doneness by ensuring internal temperature reaches 165°F and meat is tender and easily shreds.
- Use two forks to gently shred chicken thighs within the stew, mixing all ingredients thoroughly.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or spices to preference.
- Serve hot in bowls, optionally garnishing with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, or sour cream.
Tips
- Choose the Right Chicken: For the best flavor and tenderness, opt for bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. They hold up well during slow cooking and add rich flavor to the stew.
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can chop the onions and mince the garlic the night before. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.
- Layering is Key: When adding ingredients to the slow cooker, layer them as instructed. This ensures even cooking and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Adjust the Spice: If you prefer a spicier stew, feel free to add a chopped jalapeño or some cayenne pepper to the mix for an extra kick.
- Don’t Skip the Garnish: A squeeze of fresh lime juice and a sprinkle of cilantro or a dollop of sour cream can elevate the dish and add a refreshing contrast to the savory stew.
- Leftovers are Gold: This stew tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for a quick and delicious meal.
- Serve with Sides: Pair the stew with warm tortillas, rice, or a simple salad to create a complete meal that everyone will love.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 140mg
