Slow Cooker Stout & Chicken Stew

6 tablespoons plus 1/2 cup all purpose flour, divided
1 teaspoon salt, divided
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
4 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
3 pieces bacon, chopped
1 2/3 cups Guinness beer or other stout (14 oz can)
1 pounds whole baby carrots or large carrots cut into 1 inch pieces
1 8oz package cremini or button mushrooms, halved if large
2 cups chopped onion
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 teaspoons dried thyme
1 cup reduced sodium chicken broth

I decreased the amount of chicken by 1 pound from the original recipe. The reduction is factored into the nutritional information.

1. Combine 6 tablespoons flour with 1/2 teaspoon each salt and pepper in a shallow bowl. Dredge chicken thighs in the mixture to coat completely; transfer to a plate.
2. Heat 2 teaspoons oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add half the chicken and cook until well browned, 2 to 4 minutes per side; transfer to a 5 to 6 quart slow cooker. Reduce heat to medium and repeat with the remaining 2 teaspoons oil and chicken thighs. Arrange the chicken in an even layer in the slow cooker.
3. Add bacon to the pan and cook stirring often, for 2 minutes. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup flour over the bacon and cook, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes more. Add stout and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Pour the mixture over the chicken. Add carrots, mushrooms, onion, garlic and thyme, spreading in an even layer over the chicken. Pour broth over the top.
4. Cover and cook until the chicken is falling-apart tender, 4 hours on High or 7 to 8 hours on low.


Serving Size: Makes 8 - 1 1/3 cup servings