Slow Cooked Chicken Chorizo-Free (Print version)
Tender chicken simmered with vegetables and smoky spices for a flavorful, comforting meal.
# What you'll need:
→ Poultry
01 - 1.75 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into large chunks
→ Vegetables
02 - 1 large onion, diced
03 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
04 - 2 red bell peppers, seeded and chopped
05 - 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
06 - 14 oz canned chopped tomatoes
07 - 14 oz canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
08 - 5 oz baby potatoes, quartered
→ Seasonings & Spices
09 - 2 tsp smoked paprika
10 - 1 tsp ground cumin
11 - 1 tsp sweet paprika
12 - ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
13 - 1 bay leaf
14 - 1 tsp dried oregano
15 - Salt and black pepper, to taste
→ Liquids
16 - 2 cups chicken stock (gluten-free if required)
17 - 2 tbsp olive oil
→ Garnish
18 - Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
# How to make it:
01 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken pieces for 3 to 4 minutes, then transfer to the slow cooker or a large casserole pot if using the stovetop.
02 - Add onion, garlic, red bell peppers, and carrots to the same skillet. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
03 - Stir in smoked paprika, sweet paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper if using, and dried oregano. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
04 - Transfer sautéed vegetables and spices to the slow cooker or casserole pot. Add quartered baby potatoes, chopped tomatoes, chickpeas, bay leaf, and chicken stock. Season with salt and black pepper.
05 - Stir everything together. For slow cooker: Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. For stovetop: Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook gently for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
06 - Remove bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
# Expert suggestions:
01 -
- It delivers that deep, smoky warmth you crave without relying on chorizo or any processed meat.
- The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting while you go about your day.
- Its naturally gluten free and dairy free, so everyone at the table can dig in without worry.
02 -
- Dont skip browning the chicken, it adds a layer of flavor you cant get any other way.
- Smoked paprika is not optional here, its what gives this stew its soul.
03 -
- Always bloom your spices in hot oil or with the sautéed vegetables, it transforms them from dusty powder into pure aroma.
- Use chicken thighs instead of breasts, they stay moist and flavorful even after hours of cooking.