Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew: 5 Irresistible Benefits

Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

You can , but thighs really shine in this recipe because they stay juicy and flavorful during long cooking times. Breasts might dry out a bit.

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Looking for something warm, spicy, and deeply satisfying to carry you through a busy weeknight or a chilly weekend? This Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew is the perfect recipe to wrap you in comfort while doing most of the heavy lifting on its own. Yes, you heard that right—your trusty slow cooker is the real MVP here.

With tender chicken thighs, a punchy gochujang-based sauce, and wholesome veggies like carrots, mushrooms, and onions, this dish is what I call soul food with a kick. If your week has been a whirlwind (whose hasn’t?), this stew is here to say: “Hey, let’s slow things down—and spice things up.”

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew

Whether you’re juggling work meetings, carpool duty, or just trying to keep up with the laundry mountain, this Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew is a fuss-free dinner win. Here’s why it’s about to become your next weeknight favorite:

Set-it-and-forget-it magic – Toss everything in and let your slow cooker do the work.
Deep, bold Korean-inspired flavors that feel like a restaurant-quality meal.
Tender, fall-apart chicken with just the right amount of heat and sweetness.
Packed with nutrient-rich veggies for a comforting, balanced meal.
Even picky eaters will go back for seconds (ask me how I know!).

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we dive into the slow-cooked bliss, let’s talk ingredients. This stew is rich, savory, a little sweet, a little spicy, and absolutely loaded with umami.

Chicken Thighs – Juicy, tender, and perfect for slow cooking.
Carrots – Adds natural sweetness and color.
Mushrooms – Bring earthy flavor and extra heartiness.
Onions – Build that savory base we all love.
Garlic – Because when is garlic not invited to the party?
Gochujang – This Korean fermented chili paste is the star. Look for the thick, authentic kind in a tub (not the bottled stuff).
Brown Sugar – Balances the heat and adds a hint of caramel sweetness.
Sesame Oil – Brings nuttiness and depth.
Soy Sauce – Salt, umami, and that irresistible savory note.
Stock – Chicken or veggie stock to tie everything together.
Cornflour (optional) – For a thicker, saucier stew.
Spring Onions – A fresh, peppery finish that lifts the whole dish.

Tip: Be mindful with your stock cubes—too many and your stew might get overly salty. Taste before adding more!

SCROLL DOWN to the recipe card below for precise ingredient measurements, complete nutritional details, and step-by-step instructions.

How to Make Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew

Grab that slow cooker, friend. Dinner is about to be ridiculously simple and so good it might just become a part of your regular rotation.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Load It Up
Add everything (except the spring onions, cornstarch, salt, and pepper) into your slow cooker. That includes your chicken thighs, veggies, sauces, garlic, gochujang, and stock. Give it all a nice mix.
Slow Cook to Perfection
Pop the lid on and cook:
- On HIGH: 2–3 hours
- On LOW: 4–5 hours
  You’re aiming for fall-apart chicken and veggies that melt in your mouth.
Thicken the Sauce (Optional but Recommended)
About an hour before it’s done on high (or two hours on low), stir in a cornstarch slurry (just cornflour + water) if you like your stew a little thicker and silkier.
Taste & Season
Before serving, taste your stew. Add salt and black pepper as needed to round things out.
Finish & Serve
Sprinkle chopped spring onions on top for that fresh, zingy finish. Serve it over steamed rice or spoon it up as-is.

Optional but delightful: A drizzle of sesame oil or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds right before serving.

Aneta’s Little Kitchen Story

The first time I made this stew, it was one of those chaotic Wednesdays—kids were moody, the dog had chewed up a sock (again), and dinner was the last thing on my mind. I dumped everything into the slow cooker, said a little prayer, and went about my day. When dinner time rolled around? The kitchen smelled like a cozy Korean restaurant, and everyone—even my spice-averse youngest—cleaned their bowls. It’s been a weekly staple ever since.

Tips to Make It Even Better

Don’t skip the gochujang. It’s the heart of the flavor! The paste version brings the best results.
Low and slow wins the race. If you’ve got the time, the low setting makes the flavors meld beautifully.
Add extra veggies. Potatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers work if you want to bulk it up.
Meal prep friendly! This stew tastes even better the next day—perfect for leftovers.

Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew served with fluffy white rice, carrots, mushrooms, and green onions in a rich, spicy gochujang sauce. — Enjoy this Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew with a side of steamed rice—tender chicken, hearty veggies, and bold gochujang flavor in every bite.

FAQs About Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

You can, but thighs really shine in this recipe because they stay juicy and flavorful during long cooking times. Breasts might dry out a bit.

What if I can’t find gochujang?

Check the international or Asian section of your grocery store—or order online. But don’t skip it. It’s the flavor MVP here!

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Let the stew cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It reheats beautifully on the stove or in the microwave.

Can I freeze this stew?

Absolutely. Freeze in portions, thaw overnight in the fridge, and reheat gently on the stove for best texture.

Warm Up Your Week with Korean Comfort

This Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew isn’t just a meal—it’s a warm hug in a bowl with bold flavors and comforting vibes. Whether you’re feeding your family on a weeknight or just want to spice up your meal prep game, this recipe is easy, delicious, and full of that home-cooked love we all crave.

Give it a try, and let your slow cooker do the magic.

And if you loved it (or put your own twist on it), don’t be shy—share it with the Chicken Magic Recipes community! I’d love to hear how it turned out.

More Cozy Dishes to Try After This Korean Stew

If you fell in love with the bold, comforting flavors of this Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew, you’re going to adore these other warming and flavorful meals from Chicken Magic Recipes. Whether you’re looking to keep things spicy or switch it up with seasonal favorites, here are four delicious dishes that pair beautifully with the vibe of this stew:

Add a sweet and savory twist to your weeknight dinners with this bold and creamy Thai Pumpkin Curry Chicken. It’s another slow-simmered delight that brings heat, comfort, and just the right hint of fall spices.
Bring even more umami to your table by trying the ultra-comforting Caramelized Leek and Mushroom Gruyere Pasta. It’s rich, indulgent, and a perfect vegetarian complement to your stew nights.
Looking for another one-pot dinner with bold flavor? You’ll want to check out this crowd-pleasing One Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo. It’s creamy, spicy, and guaranteed to become a weeknight favorite.
Round out your meal with a sweet and savory appetizer like this fun, seasonal Pumpkin Cheese Ball—a festive favorite that’s perfect for fall gatherings or game nights.

These recipes not only keep your taste buds happy, but they also pair well with the hearty, bold flavors of your Korean stew. So go ahead—explore a little, and let your slow cooker (or skillet) work its magic again!