Name: Crock Pot Chicken Pierogi Stew: Creamy Comfort in Every Bite
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 360 min
Total time: 380 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Chicken Breasts (or thighs for extra flavor); 1 teaspoon Black Pepper (adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (fresh garlic can be used); 1 teaspoon Onion Powder (or fresh onions); 1 teaspoon Salt (adjust for low-sodium option); 2 medium Carrots (sliced); 1 stalk Celery (chopped, optional); 1 medium Onion (diced, or use shallots/leeks); 4 cups Chicken Stock (low-sodium recommended); 1 can Cream of Chicken Soup (can substitute with cream of mushroom); 1 cup Heavy Cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option); 3 cloves Garlic Cloves (freshly minced); 1 teaspoon Dried Italian Seasoning (substitute with other seasoning mixes); 2 tablespoons Cornstarch (for thickening); 1 cup Water (to activate cornstarch); 16 ounces Mini Pierogies (frozen)

As the steam swirled from my slow cooker, a comforting aroma filled the kitchen, teasing my senses with the promise of a cozy meal. Nothing says “home” quite like a hearty bowl of Crock Pot Chicken Pierogi Stew, especially on those chilly evenings when everyone craves warmth and satisfaction. This creamy stew transforms simple ingredients into a dish that feels both indulgent and nourishing, making it a perfect addition to your family’s dinner rotation. With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can set it and forget it, allowing the slow cooker to do all the magic while you unwind. Not only is it a family-friendly recipe that pleases even the pickiest eaters, but it also offers the convenience of leftovers—perfect for cold lunches or quick dinners later in the week. Curious about how to bring this delightful stew to life in your own kitchen? Let’s dive in!

Why is this stew a family favorite?

Creamy, this Crock Pot Chicken Pierogi Stew envelops tender bits of chicken and soft dumplings in a luxurious sauce that’s pure comfort food. Easy to prepare, with just 20 minutes of prep, you can simply set it in the slow cooker and go about your day. Versatile, swap in your favorite cream soups or pierogies to customize the dish to your family’s taste. Flavorful, the blend of seasonings elevates humble ingredients for a hearty meal that everyone will love. Plus, it’s perfect for leftovers—enjoy it for lunch or a quick dinner, just like with my Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken or Santa Chicken Skillet.

Crock Pot Chicken Pierogi Stew Ingredients

• Get ready to indulge in this delightful dish!

For the Stew

Chicken Breasts – A tender protein base; chicken thighs can add extra flavor.
Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust it to suit your taste.
Garlic Powder – Provides robust flavor; fresh garlic can intensify it even more.
Onion Powder – Enhances savory depth; using fresh onions is a perfect alternative.
Salt – Balances flavors; consider using less for a low-sodium option.
Carrots – Adds sweetness and texture; can be substituted with other root vegetables.
Celery – Imparts crunch and flavor; optional to replace with bell peppers.
Onion – Serves as the base flavoring; shallots or leeks are great substitutes.
Chicken Stock – Acts as the liquid base; opt for low-sodium to manage salt intake.
Cream of Chicken Soup – Infuses creaminess and thickness; can be swapped with cream of mushroom for variety.
Heavy Cream – Contributes richness; use half-and-half or milk for a lighter stew.
Garlic Cloves – Freshly minced for robust flavor; powdered garlic can work in a pinch.
Dried Italian Seasoning – Adds an herbaceous note; feel free to use other seasoning mixes.
Cornstarch – Acts as a thickening agent; can be replaced with flour or arrowroot powder.
Water – Activates the cornstarch; no substitutes are typically needed.
Mini Pierogies – The hearty main carbohydrate; explore different varieties based on your preference.

This Crock Pot Chicken Pierogi Stew will soon become a beloved staple in your kitchen!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crock Pot Chicken Pierogi Stew

Step 1: Prep Chicken
Begin by placing your chicken breasts in a 6-quart slow cooker. Season generously with black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. This seasoning forms the tasty base of your Crock Pot Chicken Pierogi Stew, infusing the chicken with flavor as it cooks.

Step 2: Add Veggies
Next, layer sliced carrots, chopped celery, and diced onion over the seasoned chicken. The colorful vegetables not only enhance the stew’s flavor but also add beautiful visual appeal. This step should take about 5-10 minutes, creating a hearty foundation for the stew as it simmers.

Step 3: Mix Liquids
In a separate bowl, whisk together chicken stock, cream of chicken soup, heavy cream, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning until smooth. Then, pour this rich mixture over the chicken and veggies in the slow cooker. The combination adds creaminess and depth, setting the stage for a deliciously comforting Crock Pot Chicken Pierogi Stew.

Step 4: Slow Cook
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 4 to 6 hours. This gentle cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully while tenderizing the chicken to juicy perfection. Keep the lid closed to trap in steam and enhance the stew’s aroma throughout your home.

Step 5: Prepare Thickening
During the last hour of cooking, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker, using tongs. Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set it aside, allowing time for the next steps while ensuring the chicken retains its tender qualities for your Crock Pot Chicken Pierogi Stew.

Step 6: Thicken Stew
In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Stir this into the simmering stew, then return the lid and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking, and watch for the sauce to thicken beautifully, enhancing the stew’s creamy consistency.

Step 7: Add Pierogies
Once the stew has thickened, gently fold in the frozen mini pierogies. Cover and cook for another 15 minutes, just until the pierogies are tender and heated through, creating a delightful heartiness to your Crock Pot Chicken Pierogi Stew, perfect for satisfying appetites.

Step 8: Combine
Finally, stir the diced chicken back into the stew, mixing everything thoroughly. Heat until everything is warmed through, about 5 minutes. This final step melds all flavors together, resulting in a comforting and delicious meal that is ready to be served immediately to your loved ones.

What to Serve with Crock Pot Chicken Pierogi Stew

As the creamy aromas of your stew fill the air, complement your meal with enticing sides that elevate the experience.

Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, a good loaf adds texture and soaks up the stew’s velvety sauce.
Garden Salad: Fresh greens topped with a light vinaigrette provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty stew.
Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans add color and nutrition, breaking up the richness of the stew.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes offer an extra layer of comfort, making dinner feel like a warm hug.
Garlic Bread: Buttery, garlic-infused bread is a family-favorite that adds a delightful crunch and savory flavor.
Apple Crisp: Cap your meal with a warm slice of apple crisp for a sweet ending, balancing the savory notes of your stew.
Cold Lemonade: A refreshing drink, lemonade cuts through the richness of the stew, making every bite enjoyable.
Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw brings a zesty crunch, brightening your plate with its tangy flavor and crisp texture.
Pickles: For a briny touch, serve dill pickles alongside to contrast the stew’s creaminess nicely; their crisp bite adds excitement.

Tips for the Best Crock Pot Chicken Pierogi Stew

Season Wisely: Use freshly cracked black pepper and quality seasoning to enhance flavors. Avoid salt overload by tasting as you go.
Veggie Variations: Don’t be afraid to mix in different vegetables like bell peppers or even diced potatoes. Just ensure they are cut into uniform sizes for even cooking.
Thickening Secrets: If you prefer a thicker stew, gradually add more cornstarch slurry and adjust based on your texture preference.
Reheat Tips: When reheating leftovers, add a splash of chicken stock or milk to restore the creamy consistency of the Crock Pot Chicken Pierogi Stew.
Slow Cook Benefits: For optimal flavor, cook on low and resist the urge to peek; this keeps the juices locked in!
Make Ahead: This stew tastes even better the next day. Consider making it a day in advance to allow flavors to meld beautifully!

Make Ahead Options

Planning a busy week? This Crock Pot Chicken Pierogi Stew is perfect for meal prep! You can chop your veggies—carrots, celery, and onion—and season the chicken up to 24 hours in advance; just refrigerate them in an airtight container. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while saving you time on cooking day. Additionally, you can mix the stock, cream of chicken soup, and seasonings, storing that mixture separately. When you’re ready to cook, add everything to the slow cooker and set it to low for 4-6 hours. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious, creamy stew that feels fresh and just as delightful as if you made it all in one go!

How to Store and Freeze Crock Pot Chicken Pierogi Stew

Room Temperature: Allow the stew to cool completely before leaving it out; it should not sit at room temperature for longer than 2 hours to avoid any food safety issues.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little chicken stock or cream to restore consistency.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the stew in a safe, airtight container for up to 3 months. It’s best to divide into individual portions for easy thawing.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the stew overnight in the refrigerator and reheat slowly on the stove, stirring gently until warmed through for a comforting meal.

Crock Pot Chicken Pierogi Stew Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with your ingredients to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!

Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk for a dairy-free version that still maintains creaminess.
Vegetarian: Replace chicken with chickpeas or lentils and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock for a hearty plant-based stew.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick that elevates the flavor. Perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat!
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pierogies and cornstarch as a thickener to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diners.
Herb Boost: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley added at the end of cooking to brighten the flavors of your stew.
Protein Variations: Swap chicken for turkey or even pork, adjusting cooking times as necessary to ensure everything is tender and flavorful.
Extra Veggie Power: Throw in chunky zucchini or fresh spinach towards the end of cooking for added nutrition and color.
Creative Cream Bases: Try swapping out cream of chicken soup for cream of celery or a cheese sauce for a different creamy depth in flavor.

Culinary creativity is endless! If you love a hearty meal, consider pairing this stew with crusty bread or a side salad to round out your dinner, just like my Garlic Chicken Broccoli or Corn Chicken Rice.

Crock Pot Chicken Pierogi Stew Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken should I use for this stew?
Absolutely! I recommend using chicken breasts for a lean protein, but chicken thighs can also add a rich flavor. Both cook tenderly in the slow cooker, ensuring that your Crock Pot Chicken Pierogi Stew remains succulent.

How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the stove or microwave, adding a splash of chicken stock or cream to maintain the creaminess of your stew—nothing like preserving that rich flavor!

Can I freeze this stew?
Yes! You can freeze your Crock Pot Chicken Pierogi Stew in a safe, airtight container for up to 3 months. I often portion mine out for easy thawing. Just be sure to let it cool completely before freezing, and when you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove.

What if my stew ends up too thick?
No worries! If your stew thickens more than you’d like, simply stir in a little more chicken stock or water while reheating until you achieve your desired consistency. I usually add just enough until it’s creamy and perfect again.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
If anyone in your family has dietary restrictions or allergies, you can easily adjust the recipe! For instance, opt for gluten-free pierogies or substitute cream of chicken with a dairy-free version. Always check labels for allergens, and feel free to use low-sodium or no-salt-added chicken stock to cater to specific health needs. Enjoy making this stew a bit healthier if needed!

How can I ensure my pierogies turn out perfect?
To achieve perfectly tender pierogies, ensure you add them frozen during the last 15 minutes of cooking. Keeping an eye on the timing will help prevent them from becoming mushy. Gently fold them in right before serving, and they’ll be deliciously soft and ready to tantalize your taste buds!