Crockpot Chicken Stew: Easy and Healthy Cat Meal
If you’re like most cat owners, you’ve probably wished you could make your cat’s meals a little more exciting, but without spending hours in the kitchen.
And while you might think stews are a “human” thing, this Crockpot Chicken Stew is about to change the game for your cat. It’s simple, healthy, and requires minimal effort—just toss everything in the crockpot and let it do the work for you.
Who knew a slow-cooked meal could be so easy and good for your furry friend? Let’s get started!
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup boneless, skinless chicken breast (cubed)
- 1/4 cup carrots (diced)
- 1/4 cup peas (optional – frozen or fresh)
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth (unsalted)
Why These Ingredients?
Chicken
Chicken is the star of the show here. It’s a lean protein that’s easy for your cat to digest, and it provides all the amino acids they need to stay healthy.
The protein in chicken supports muscle growth and helps maintain your cat’s energy levels throughout the day. Plus, it’s a flavor that most cats can’t resist.
Carrots
While cats don’t need vegetables to survive, carrots are a great addition for some fiber and vitamins. They’re full of vitamin A, which supports vision, skin health, and immune function.
Plus, when cooked and diced small, they’re easy for your cat to digest without any fuss. They add a subtle sweetness to the stew that your cat will love.
Peas
Peas are a perfect veggie for your cat’s digestive system. They contain fiber to help with digestion and also provide small amounts of protein and vitamins.
When cooked, peas are easy to digest, and they add a little extra nutrition without overwhelming your cat’s stomach.
Chicken Broth
The low-sodium chicken broth is more than just for flavor—it helps keep the stew moist and tasty. It also adds hydration to the meal, which is important since many cats don’t drink enough water.
Using unsalted broth ensures your cat isn’t getting too much sodium, keeping the meal safe and healthy for them.
Step-by-Step Instructions
This recipe couldn’t be simpler. All you need to do is set it, forget it, and let the crockpot do the work. Here’s how to make this healthy chicken stew:
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Cut your chicken breast into small cubes. You don’t need to make them tiny, but smaller chunks will make it easier for your cat to eat. You can also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs if you prefer, but chicken breast is leaner and better for cats with sensitive stomachs.
Step 2: Add the Vegetables
Chop the carrots into small pieces. If you’re using fresh peas, give them a quick rinse, or just toss in the frozen ones. Add both the carrots and peas to the crockpot with the chicken.
Step 3: Pour in the Broth
Add low-sodium chicken broth to the crockpot to create a nice, moist base for the stew. You’ll want to make sure there’s enough liquid to cover the chicken and veggies, so add a little more if needed. Stir everything together.
Step 4: Set It and Forget It
Cover the crockpot and set it on low heat for about 6 hours. The chicken will cook through, and the veggies will soften perfectly. If you’re short on time, you can set it to high heat for about 3 hours, but low and slow is always better for flavors.
Step 5: Serve and Cool
Once the stew is ready, let it cool down to room temperature before serving. You don’t want to burn your cat’s mouth. Once cooled, spoon out a portion that’s the right size for your cat, and serve it in their bowl. They’ll be digging in faster than you can say “meal time!”
Portioning & Storing
Portioning
For an average-sized cat (5–8 pounds), 1/4 to 1/2 cup of this stew is generally a good serving size. Adjust the portion based on your cat’s appetite, but remember this should be served as a supplement, not a replacement for their regular food. Serve this stew 2–3 times a week for the best balance.
Storing
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze individual portions for up to 1 month. Just thaw it out in the fridge overnight and heat it up to room temperature before serving.
Common Mistakes
- Using regular broth – Always go for low-sodium, unsalted broth. Regular broth has too much salt, which isn’t good for cats.
- Overcooking the vegetables – Don’t overcook the carrots and peas. They should be tender, not mushy.
- Not cooling the stew – Let the stew cool to room temperature before serving. Cats are picky about hot food, and you don’t want to burn their sensitive mouths.
- Feeding as a full meal – This is a supplementary meal. It’s perfect 2–3 times a week, but don’t replace their regular food with it.
Health Benefits
This Crockpot Chicken Stew is loaded with nutrients that benefit your cat’s overall health.
Digestive Health
The fiber from the carrots and peas helps with digestion, making this stew a great choice for cats with sensitive stomachs. The combination of lean chicken and veggies provides a balanced meal that’s gentle on your cat’s digestive system.
Hydration
Thanks to the chicken broth, this stew provides extra hydration, which can be a game-changer for cats who don’t drink enough water. Staying hydrated is essential for kidney health and overall well-being.
Healthy Skin and Coat
With protein-rich chicken and vitamins from the veggies, this stew promotes healthy skin and a shiny coat. Your cat will look and feel great after just a few servings.
Looking For More Recipes?
If you’re looking for more great and easy recipes, have a look on other articles on our blog! You can also watch the video below – it’s a fantastic recipe too 🙂
FAQ
1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, frozen chicken works perfectly fine. Just make sure to thaw it out first, then cube it before adding it to the crockpot.
2. Can I add other vegetables?
You can! Just make sure to use cat-safe veggies, such as pumpkin, spinach, or zucchini. Keep the portions small, and cook them until soft.
3. Can I make this for kittens?
This recipe is great for adult cats. For kittens, you’ll need to check with your vet to ensure it meets their specific nutritional needs.
4. How long can I store the stew?
You can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 1 month.
5. Can I make this stew on the stove instead of the crockpot?
Sure! You can cook it on the stove over low heat for about 1–1.5 hours, but the crockpot method is easier and lets the flavors meld together beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Chicken Stew is an easy, healthy way to give your cat a satisfying, nutritious meal. It’s simple to prepare, full of goodness, and requires almost no effort on your part.
Plus, the best part is, your cat will love it! With its gentle ingredients and hydration boost, it’s perfect for keeping your furry friend happy and healthy.
So, toss it all in the crockpot, let it simmer, and enjoy the peace of knowing you’ve just made your cat’s day. 🙂
