Brunswick Stew Recipe Crockpot Chicken

Slow Cooker Comfort: The Easiest Brunswick Stew Recipe with Tender Crockpot Chicken

There’s something magical about walking into your kitchen on a crisp fall or winter day and being greeted by the savory aroma of a hearty stew simmering away in your slow cooker. For me, Brunswick stew has always been one of those recipes that instantly transports me to my grandmother’s cozy kitchen in rural Georgia, where comfort food was as essential as sweet tea.

The beauty of this dish? It’s a brunswick stew recipe crockpot chicken version that’s easy, quick to prepare, and captures the rich, classic flavors of the South without requiring you to stand over the stove all day.

Whether you lean toward Southern Living’s tomato-based, slightly smoky Georgia style or prefer the tangy vinegar notes of North Carolina tradition, you’ll find this slow-cooked version to be both soul-warming and simple to make.

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The Story Behind Brunswick Stew

Brunswick stew’s origins are a friendly feud between Georgia and North Carolina — each claiming they created it first. Georgia swears by a tomato-rich base with a smoky touch, while North Carolina favors a sharper, vinegar-based flavor. Traditionally made with game meats like squirrel or rabbit (yes, really!), today’s recipes are more likely to feature tender chicken or pork for convenience.

What hasn’t changed is its role as a homemade comfort food — a classic Southern staple often served at church gatherings, football tailgates, and holiday potlucks. My own journey with Brunswick stew began when I adapted my grandmother’s stovetop recipe for the slow cooker, making it perfect for busy weekdays.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Slow Cooker Brunswick Stew

• Perfect for chilly seasons – It’s hearty enough for fall football games and comforting during winter nights.
• Effortless cooking – Just load your crockpot and let it do the work.
• Customizable flavors – Adjust seasonings for smoky, tangy, or plain versions.
• Freezer-friendly – Make a big batch and enjoy it for weeks.

Ingredients for the Best Crockpot Chicken Brunswick Stew

This recipe serves 8 generous portions. Here’s exactly what you’ll need:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for more flavor)
• 1 cup frozen corn kernels
• 1 cup frozen baby lima beans
• 1 cup frozen green beans
• 2 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced (about 2 cups)
• 1 large onion, diced (about 1 cup)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (for smoky sweetness)
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar (optional, for tangy NC style)
• 2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Step-by-Step: How to Make Brunswick Stew in a Crockpot

Step 1: Prep the Chicken & Veggies

Rinse your chicken and pat dry. Dice potatoes and onion; mince the garlic.

Step 2: Load the Slow Cooker

Place chicken at the bottom, then layer in corn, lima beans, green beans, potatoes, onion, and garlic.

Step 3: Add Liquids & Seasoning

Pour in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth, and barbecue sauce. Sprinkle with paprika, thyme, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours until chicken is fully cooked and vegetables are tender.

Step 5: Shred & Serve

Remove chicken, shred with two forks, and stir back into the stew. Taste and adjust seasoning — add vinegar here if making North Carolina style.

Chef’s Tips for the Best Flavor

• Smoky depth – Use smoked paprika or add a few slices of smoked sausage.
• Thicker stew – Mash some of the potatoes after cooking for extra body.
• Quick version – Use shredded rotisserie chicken and reduce cook time to 2–3 hours on LOW.
• Soup-style – Add an extra cup of chicken broth for a lighter, spoon-friendly texture.

Kitchen Essentials to Elevate Your Brunswick Stew

Over the years, I’ve learned that having the right tools makes the cooking process smoother, especially for slow cooker recipes like this. Here are three of my favorite Amazon finds that make this dish a breeze:

1. Crock-Pot 7-Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker

This large-capacity crockpot is perfect for cooking big batches of Brunswick stew. The oval shape fits chicken breasts perfectly, and the manual setting is simple yet reliable.

Check it out on Amazon here and make every slow cooker meal effortless.

2. OXO Good Grips 3-in-1 Adjustable Potato Ricer

For those who love a creamier stew texture, a potato ricer is the secret to lump-free mashed potatoes in your Brunswick stew base. Durable, comfortable to use, and dishwasher safe.

Grab yours on Amazon here for silky-smooth results every time.

3. KitchenAid Limited Edition Queen of Hearts Hand Mixer, 7 Speed

While it’s great for baking, I also use this hand mixer on LOW speed to shred cooked chicken directly in the crockpot — no more juggling forks!

Get it from Amazon here and save yourself time (and sore wrists).

Serving Suggestions

When I was growing up, my grandmother never served Brunswick stew without a side of golden cornbread — crispy edges, soft middle. You can also pair it with:

• Fluffy buttermilk biscuits
• Sweet tea or peach iced tea
• Pickles or coleslaw for a tangy contrast
• A dollop of hot sauce for spice lovers

Variations to Try

• Georgia Style – Tomato-rich with sweet, smoky BBQ sauce.
• North Carolina Style – Vinegar-forward, lighter tomato flavor.
• Vegetarian – Skip chicken, add chickpeas or jackfruit.
• Spicy Kick – Double the red pepper flakes or add jalapeños.
• Plain & Mild – Reduce seasoning for kids or picky eaters.

Storing & Reheating

• Refrigerator – Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Freezer – Freeze in portions for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in fridge.
• Reheat – Warm gently on stovetop or in microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Final Thoughts: Bringing Southern Comfort to Your Kitchen

This brunswick stew recipe crockpot chicken is more than just a meal — it’s a taste of Southern hospitality, a warm hug in a bowl, and a reminder that great cooking doesn’t have to be complicated. With its easy, homemade, and classic flavors, this stew is perfect for everything from cozy weeknights to festive gatherings.

So go ahead — let your slow cooker do the work, fill your home with mouthwatering aromas, and serve up a steaming bowl of comfort that would make both Georgia and North Carolina proud.