Honey and mustard is a classic flavour combination that brings the perfect balance of sweetness and tang to this comforting slow cooker honey and mustard chicken stew. This dish is ideal for colder months, offering a rich and creamy texture while remaining a healthy recipe. It’s naturally lower in calories compared to traditional creamy stews, making it a great option for those focused on weight loss while still wanting a filling and satisfying easy dinner.

The nutritional benefits of honey and mustard chicken

This slow cooker honey and mustard chicken stew is packed with nutritious ingredients:

Chicken provides lean protein, keeping you full for longer without excessively increasing calories.
Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which supports eye health.
Onions and garlic contain antioxidants that help support the immune system.
Wholegrain mustard adds flavour without unnecessary calories and UPF free versions are easy to find.
Honey offers natural sweetness and contains trace antioxidants for just 60kcal per tablespoon.

This recipe is lower in fat than many creamy stews, thanks to the use of milk instead of heavy cream. The cornflour slurry ensures a thick and hearty consistency without the need for butter or excess fats.

Do you have a diet restriction?

This slow cooker honey and mustard chicken stew is:

Ultra Processed Food Free
Low-Calorie
Dairy-Free (use plant based milk or sub for extra stock)
Gluten-Free
Nut-Free
Syn-Free (check specific plan requirements)
High-Protein
Low GI
Paleo-Friendly (omit milk and use an alternative thickener such as arrowroot)

All slimming world related info is gathered from various internet sources. Syn values may be incorrect or outdated. If you see one is wrong, please let me know so I can update the information!

Ultra processed food free recipes are recipes that use ingredients where no additives have been used. This will include ingredients that can be made at home to be UPF free such as stock cubes, sauces and seasonings.

Step 1: Brown the chicken

Keeping the chicken pieces whole at this stage helps lock in moisture and improves texture. If using a traditional crockpot, brown the chicken in a frying pan with a little oil over medium heat, searing each side for about two to three minutes. If using a multi-cooker slow cooker, such as a Ninja Foodi, you can use the sear/sauté mode to do this directly in the pot.

Browning the chicken before slow cooking the honey and mustard chicken stew enhances the depth of flavour in the stew. It also preheats the slow cooker, which is particularly important for multi-cooker slow cookers that only heat from the bottom. If the pot isn’t preheated, the stew will take significantly longer to cook, and the texture may not be as rich. Once browned, remove the chicken and set it aside while you prepare the base of the stew.

Step 2: slow cook the honey and mustard chicken stew

After removing the chicken, add the diced onion and carrots to the pot. Stir occasionally, allowing them to soften slightly for about two minutes. If using a frying pan, transfer the softened vegetables to the slow cooker before proceeding.

Return the chicken to the pot and add the minced garlic, wholegrain mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, salt, pepper, and chicken stock. Stir well to ensure the mustard and honey are evenly distributed throughout the liquid.

Set the slow cooker to high for four hours or low for six hours. During this time, the chicken will become tender, and the flavours will fully develop. Avoid lifting the lid too often, as this releases heat and can extend the cooking time. The stew is ready when the chicken falls apart easily when pressed with a fork.

Step 3: Thicken the honey and mustard chicken stew

Thirty minutes before the cooking time ends, prepare the thickening slurry. In a small bowl, mix the milk and cornflour until fully combined and free of lumps. Slowly pour the mixture into the slow cooker while stirring continuously to prevent clumping. The liquid may look thin at first, but it will begin to thicken as the cornflour is activated by the heat.

Continue stirring for two to three minutes to help the thickener blend into the stew. Over the next fifteen to twenty minutes, stir the stew every five minutes to ensure even thickening. This step is essential to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth, rich texture.

If the stew remains thinner than desired, you can take additional steps to reduce the liquid. If using a multi-cooker, switch to the sear/sauté mode and cook with the lid off for an additional five to ten minutes to allow excess moisture to evaporate. If using a traditional crockpot, leaving it on high with the lid off will also help, though this method takes slightly longer.

Step 4: Serve and enjoy

Once thickened, gently shred the chicken into smaller pieces using two forks or leave it in larger chunks if preferred. Stir everything one final time to distribute the chicken evenly throughout the stew.

Serve hot with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. This stew pairs particularly well with roasted root vegetables or a side of crusty bread for dipping. Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for longer storage.

Recipe Variations

Swap the chicken – Use turkey breast or boneless pork for a different twist.
Make it dairy-free – Replace milk with an unsweetened dairy-free alternative, such as oat milk.
Add extra vegetables – Throw in parsnips, swede, or peas for added fibre and nutrients.
Make it spicy – Add a pinch of chilli flakes for a subtle kick.
Use a different thickener – Instead of cornflour, arrowroot for a paleo friendly option.

FAQs

Can I freeze this stew?
Yes! Once cooled, portion it into airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating.

How can I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also use the microwave, heating in short bursts and stirring in between.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs add more flavour and remain tender after slow cooking.

Can I make this on the hob instead?
Yes, simmer everything in a large pot on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours, then thicken with the cornflour slurry.

What can I serve with this stew?
Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, crusty sourdough, or a side of steamed greens all pair perfectly.

How do I make the sauce thicker?
Use the sear/sauté mode in a multi-cooker or leave the crockpot on high with the lid off for extra thickening.

Can I cook this for longer than 6 hours?
Yes, if needed, you can leave it on low for up to 8 hours. However, any longer may cause the chicken to become too soft.

slow cooker honey and mustard chicken stew

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