Remember those nights as a kid when the smell of something wonderful would fill the air? What is a slow cooker chicken vegetable recipe? Is it like a warm hug in the bowl, but without the fuss? What is the lazy cousin of chicken pot pie? Is this a lifesaver on busy weeknights when you’re craving something comforting? Is it healthy to eat a complicated meal? What is the best part about a slow cooker?
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What is slow cooker chicken?
What is a slow cooker chicken salad? What are some of the best chicken thighs to serve with a side of vegetables? What are some of the best ways to make a savory broth? What is essentially a simplified stew, but made even easier thanks to the magic of slow cooker? No need to babysit the stove or worry about burning anything. What is a good meal to eat without spending hours in the kitchen? What is comfort food?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What are some of the reasons why I am obsessed with this recipe?Flavor explosion: WhatWhat are some of the best herbs, spices, and slow-cooked goodness? What are some of the best vegetables to eat with chicken? My kids actually fight over the last spoonful!EffortlessIs this recipe embarrassingly easy? How do I cook veggies in a slow cooker? No fancy techniques or complicated steps required. Even a complete beginner can nail this one.Budget friendlyChicken thighs are generally more affordable than chicken breasts, and you can use whatever you want. What vegetables do you have on hand? What are some great ways to clean out the fridge without breaking the bank? I often use frozen vegetables too when fresh is expensive. *Super versatile: IsHow do I customize this recipe to suit my own tastes and dietary needs? Add different vegetables, change up the spices, or use a different type of protein. Is there a blank canvas for culinary creativity? What I love most is that I can get it started in the morning before work, and come home to a house. Is dinner ready? Is it similar to beef stew?
How do I make slow cooker chicken?
Quick Overview
How do I cook chicken in a slow cooker? First, you’ll chop your favorite vegetables and season them with herbs and spices. What are some good ways to cook chicken thighs in a slow cooker? Add broth, and let it simmer low and slow until the chicken is fall-apart tender and the vegetables are tender. Are perfectly cooked. It’s so simple, it practically makes itself! The beauty is that the slow cooking process intensifies the flavors and makes everything taste better. Is it delicious?
Ingredients
For the Main Dish: What is the main dish
* 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (I prefer thigh because they stay moist)
* 4 cups chopped vegetables (carrots, potatoes, celery, onions – use your favorites! ) I like to add bell peppers too for some sweetness.
* 2 cloves garlic, minced (or more, because garlic is life)
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
* 1/2 teaspoon paprika
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium is best so you can control the salt)
What are some optional flavorings?
* 1 bay leaf (remove before serving)
* 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
* A squeeze of lemon juice (brightens up the flavors)
* A pinch of red pepper flakes (for a little kick)
What are the steps to
Step 1: Prep the Veggies
What are some good ways to chop vegetables into bite-sized pieces? I like to keep them relatively uniform in size so they cook evenly. Don’t skip onions and garlic – they really build the flavor base for this dish!
Step 2: Season the Chicken
In a bowl, mix together the thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chopped tomatoes and sage to the What should I do with chicken thighs? Rub it all over. Where do you get that amazing savory flavor?
Step 3: Layer in the Slow Cooker
Place the chopped vegetables in the bottom of a slow cooker. Arrange the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the vegetables. How do you keep chickens moist?
Step 4: Add Broth and Simmer
What is the best way to serve chicken broth with vegetables? Add the bay leaf and Worcestershire sauce, if using. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. When the chicken is done, it should be fall-apart tender.
Step 5: Shred and Serve
After the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it with a fork. In a slow cooker, combine the chicken with the vegetables and broth. Cook for 5 minutes. Remove from heat. Serve warm. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Lemon juice can brighten up the flavors right before serving.
What should I serve it with?
What is a good slow cooker recipe for chicken vegetables?For a heartier meal, try grilled chickenServe over mashed potatoes, rice, or quinoa. The creamy potatoes are a perfect complement to the savory chicken and vegetables. I also love it with a big hunk of crusty bread for soaking up all the delicious broth.For a lighter meal: i.e. Serve it with a side salad or some steamed green beans. The freshness of the salad balances out the richness of the stew.
* For a cozy night in:What is the best way to unwind after a long day? I always make a huge batch and freeze some for later. What’s the perfect freezer meal for those nights when you just don’t feel like cooking? My family loves cornbread. I can’t eat it, but they do like it.
How do I cook slow cooker chicken?
Here are a few tips and tricks I’ve learned over the years to make this recipe even better:
* Don’t skip the searing: While this is a dump-and-go recipe, searing the chicken thighs before adding them to the slow cooker adds a ton of flavor. Just sear them in a hot pan for a few minutes per side until they’re nicely browned.
* Use fresh herbs when possible: Fresh herbs add a brighter, more vibrant flavor to the dish. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried herbs will work just fine, but use about half the amount.
* Don’t overcook the vegetables: If you cook the vegetables for too long, they’ll turn to mush. I like to add heartier vegetables like potatoes and carrots at the beginning of the cooking process, and add more delicate vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers towards the end. I usually wait to add peas until the last 30 minutes, if I am using them.
* Adjust the seasoning to your liking: This recipe is just a starting point. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to find your perfect flavor combination. I sometimes add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
* Thicken the sauce if desired: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can whisk together a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
* Add some acidity: A squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of vinegar at the end of cooking can really brighten up the flavors and balance out the richness of the stew.
* Don’t open the lid too often! I know it’s tempting, but every time you lift the lid you release heat and moisture, which can prolong the cooking time. Trust the process!
Storing and Reheating Tips
This slow cooker chicken vegetables recipe stores beautifully and tastes even better the next day!
* Room Temperature: I honestly wouldn’t leave this out at room temperature for more than a couple of hours. Bacteria loves to grow in cooked food, so it’s best to get it into the fridge as soon as possible.
* Refrigerator Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will meld together even more as it sits, making it even more delicious. I like to portion it out into individual containers for easy lunches during the week.
* Freezer Instructions: This recipe also freezes really well! Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
* Glaze Timing Advice: Since there is no glaze in this recipe the directions above is fine
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
This slow cooker chicken vegetables recipe is one of those dishes that you’ll come back to again and again. It’s easy, delicious, and incredibly versatile. It’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or anytime you’re craving a comforting and healthy dish. If you love this recipe, you might also enjoy my slow cooker beef stew or my creamy tomato soup. They’re both just as easy and satisfying! Can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Be sure to leave a comment and let me know what variations you tried. Happy cooking!
Slow Cooker Chicken and Vegetables
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup Chopped onion
- 2 cups Chopped carrots
- 2 cups Broccoli florets
- 1 cup Chicken broth
- 1 tsp Dried thyme
- 0.5 tsp Salt
- 0.25 tsp Black pepper
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- Add onion, carrots, and broccoli to the slow cooker.
- Pour chicken broth over the chicken and vegetables.
- Sprinkle with thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
