Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew

Name: Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-495620H20M4S
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 750g boneless skinless chicken thighs; 1 onion, chopped; 1 large carrot, chopped; 150g mushrooms, halved; 2 tablespoons gochujang; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 cups chicken stock

Published: March 6, 2026

by kaeli

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Preparation: Just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work for you.
Flavor-Packed: The combination of gochujang, sesame oil, and garlic creates a rich and savory sauce that’s full of flavor.
Versatile Dish: Serve it on its own or over rice for a filling meal that can be enjoyed any time.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from chicken and fiber from vegetables, this stew is as nutritious as it is delicious.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that will make the cooking process smooth and easy.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Slow cooker
Chopping board
Knife
Measuring spoons
Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

Slow cooker: This tool allows for hands-free cooking, letting flavors develop over several hours while you focus on other tasks.
Chopping board: A sturdy board makes it easy to chop vegetables safely and efficiently.
Knife: A sharp knife ensures quick and precise cutting of ingredients.
Mixing bowl: Useful for combining ingredients like the cornstarch slurry before adding to the stew.

Ingredients

For the Stew

750g of boneless skinless chicken thighs
1 onion, chopped
1 large carrot, chopped
150g of mushrooms, halved
1 tablespoon of minced garlic
2 tablespoons of gochujang (add more if you like)
2 tablespoons of soy sauce
2 level tablespoons of brown sugar
1 tablespoon of sesame oil
2 cups (480ml) of chicken stock

For Garnish

4 spring onions (green part), chopped
1.5 tablespoons of cornstarch
salt and black pepper to season

How to Make Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Add all ingredients (except spring onions, cornstarch, salt, and pepper) into your slow cooker.

Step 2: Combine Well

Stir everything together until well mixed so that the flavors blend seamlessly during cooking.

Step 3: Cook the Stew

Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Cook on high for 2–3 hours or on low for 4–5 hours.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

During the last hour on high or last 2 hours on low:
1. Mix cornstarch with a couple of tablespoons of water in a small bowl to create a slurry.
2. Stir this slurry into the sauce in the slow cooker.

Step 5: Season to Taste

Taste your stew before serving. Add salt and black pepper as needed to enhance the flavors.

Step 6: Finish with Garnish

Sprinkle chopped spring onions over the top just before serving for an added crunch and freshness.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!

Dish out your delicious Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew hot, either on its own or over a bed of rice. Enjoy!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew

Serving Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew is a delightful experience that brings warmth and comfort to the table. Here are some creative ways to serve this flavorful dish.

Serve with Rice

White Rice: A classic pairing that soaks up the rich sauce.
Brown Rice: Adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber.
Sticky Rice: Perfect for those who love a chewy texture.

Enjoy with Noodles

Udon Noodles: Thick and chewy, they complement the stew’s heartiness.
Soba Noodles: These buckwheat noodles add a unique taste and texture.

Add Fresh Vegetables

Steamed Broccoli: Brightens the plate and adds crunch.
Kimchi: Offers a spicy, tangy contrast, enhancing the overall flavor.

Top with Garnishes

Chopped Cilantro: Freshness that lightens up each bite.
Sesame Seeds: Adds a nice crunch and visual appeal.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew

Perfecting your Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew can elevate your dish to another level. Here are some helpful tips.

Choose quality chicken: Using fresh, boneless skinless chicken thighs will enhance the overall flavor of the stew.
Adjust spice levels: If you enjoy heat, feel free to add more gochujang or even some red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
Cook low and slow: For maximum tenderness, cook on low heat for longer periods—this helps develop deeper flavors.
Make it ahead: This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together, making it perfect for meal prep.
Thicken wisely: Use cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking to achieve your desired consistency without overcooking the chicken.
Garnish just before serving: Adding spring onions or sesame seeds right before serving keeps them fresh and vibrant.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: The subtle aroma complements the stew beautifully while absorbing its rich flavors.
Korean Potato Salad: A creamy side that balances out the spice of the stew, offering a refreshing contrast.
Pickled Radishes: These provide a crisp, tangy bite that cuts through the richness of the chicken stew.
Stir-fried Bok Choy: Lightly sautéed bok choy adds a crunchy texture and bright color to your plate.
Egg Fried Rice: A delicious twist that incorporates eggs for added protein while being filling and tasty.
Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and light, this salad can help cleanse your palate between bites of hearty stew.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew, it’s easy to make a few missteps. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of:

Using the wrong cut of chicken: Stick with boneless skinless chicken thighs for the best flavor and tenderness. Other cuts may result in a drier stew.
Not measuring ingredients accurately: Precision is key! Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure you add the right amount of each ingredient for balanced flavors.
Skipping the cornstarch slurry: This step thickens your stew, giving it that perfect consistency. Don’t skip it; mix cornstarch with water during cooking to achieve this.
Overcooking or undercooking: Follow the recommended cooking times closely. Overcooking can make the chicken tough, while undercooking leaves it unsafe to eat.
Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Always taste your stew before serving. Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for a well-seasoned dish.

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Allow the stew to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew

Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, heating on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring occasionally.
Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a pot, stirring regularly until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I serve with Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew?

You can serve it over steamed rice or noodles. Add a side of pickled vegetables for extra flavor and crunch.

Can I customize the spice level in Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew?

Absolutely! Adjust the amount of gochujang based on your heat preference. Start small and add more as needed.

How long does it take to make Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew?

The total cooking time is about 4-5 hours depending on whether you choose high or low settings on your slow cooker.

Is Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew healthy?

Yes! It contains lean protein and plenty of vegetables, making it a nutritious option. You can also adjust ingredients for lower sodium or sugar options.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew is not just delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or adjusting spices to suit your taste. It’s a comforting meal that brings warmth and joy, so be sure to give this recipe a try!

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