Slow Cooker Kentucky Chicken Burgoo Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For a deeper color and richer flavor, you can briefly sear the chicken pieces in a skillet with a little oil before adding them to the slow cooker, though this is optional.

If you choose to do this, ensure you clean the skillet thoroughly afterward to avoid cross-contamination. This extra step adds a layer of complexity to the stew that many appreciate in traditional Kentucky-style recipes.

If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mash a few of the cooked potato cubes against the side of the slow cooker insert toward the end of the cooking time.

The starch released from the potatoes will naturally thicken the tomato sauce. This technique is a great way to adjust the texture to your liking without needing to add any artificial thickeners or extra ingredients.

Variations

• Spicy Burgoo: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños during the seasoning phase to give the stew a spicy kick that complements the smoky paprika.
• Root Vegetable Burgoo: Incorporate diced carrots and parsnips alongside the potatoes to add more earthiness and texture to the stew, increasing the overall vegetable content.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Cool to room temperature within 2 hours before refrigerating.

Freezer

Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheat

Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through to 165°F (74°C).

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the quality high, ensure the stew has cooled to room temperature for no more than 2 hours before moving it into the fridge.

When reheating, ensure the stew is heated until it is steaming hot throughout to maintain food safety standards for poultry dishes.

This dish is excellent for making ahead, as the flavors often improve after sitting in the refrigerator overnight. You can prepare the entire stew a day in advance, allow it to cool completely, and then store it in the refrigerator.

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the stew has thickened too much during storage.

Serving ideas

Serve this hearty burgoo in shallow bowls to showcase the texture of the chicken and vegetables. It pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread or cornbread, which is perfect for soaking up the flavorful tomato-based sauce. A simple green salad on the side can provide a nice, crisp contrast to the rich, warm flavors of the stew.

For those who enjoy a bit of extra heat, you can serve the burgoo with a dash of your favorite hot sauce on the side. Fresh herbs, such as chopped parsley or chives, can also be sprinkled over the top just before serving to add a pop of color and a touch of freshness to the finished dish, enhancing its presentation.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Slow Cooker Kentucky Chicken Burgoo

Prep 10 minCook 4 hRest 5 minTotal 4 h 15 minServes 6

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-size chunks
• 2 cups potatoes, cut into cubes
• 1 cup lima beans
• 1 cup corn
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 28 oz crushed tomatoes

Instructions

1. Place the chicken breast chunks into the bottom of the slow cooker stoneware insert. Add the cubed potatoes, lima beans, and corn on top of the chicken pieces.
2. Sprinkle the smoked paprika over the vegetables and chicken. Pour the crushed tomatoes over the entire mixture. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on high for 4 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
3. Once the cooking time is complete, verify the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Turn off the slow cooker and allow the stew to rest for 5 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld and the steam settle.

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

320

Protein

28.5 g

Carbohydrates

35 g

Fat

6.5 g

Fiber

5 g

Sugar

6 g

Sodium

450 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.