Mouth-watering Chicken Recipe for Your Slow Cooker
Welcome to my easy and yummy slow cooker chicken recipe! As a chef, I know the importance of creating meals that are both delicious and effortless. This recipe is the perfect solution for busy weekdays and lazy weekends alike. With minimal prep work and a slow cooker doing all the heavy lifting, you can enjoy a mouth-watering meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this slow cooker chicken recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. It’s versatile, flavorful, and packed with wholesome ingredients that will satisfy everyone at the table. From tender chicken breasts to hearty potatoes, raw carrots, and juicy mushrooms, every bite is a celebration of flavor and texture.
In this recipe article, I’ll guide you through the ingredient list, the step-by-step process, and share some tips and tricks to help you achieve perfect results every time. So grab your slow cooker, put on your apron, and let’s get started on making one of the best chicken recipes you’ll ever taste!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you tired of eating the same boring chicken recipes every week? Look no further because this easy and yummy slow cooker chicken recipe is about to become your new favorite!
First of all, who doesn’t love the convenience of a slow cooker? Simply add all of the ingredients and let it cook for hours while you go about your day. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
But convenience isn’t the only reason you’ll love this recipe. The combination of tender boneless skinless chicken breasts, hearty potatoes, raw carrots, and savory mushrooms creates a delicious and satisfying meal. The chicken is cooked to perfection and falls apart effortlessly with each bite.
And let’s not forget about the flavorful broth that the chicken cooks in. It’s made with a combination of chicken broth and milk, which adds a richness and creaminess to the dish. It’s the perfect base for the tender vegetables and chicken to simmer in.
This recipe is also incredibly versatile. Don’t have potatoes? No problem, swap them out for rice or pasta. Want to add some spice? Add some hot sauce or red pepper flakes. The possibilities are endless!
Overall, this easy and yummy slow cooker chicken recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. It’s delicious, satisfying, and versatile. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredient List
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: For this recipe, we will need 2 pounds of boneless skinless chicken breasts. It’s a versatile and lean protein that can be used in a variety of ways. Make sure to trim any excess fat before cooking to ensure even cooking.
Potatoes: We will need 2 cups of potatoes that are peeled and cubed. Yukon Gold potatoes work well for this recipe, but you can use any type of potatoes you have on hand.
Raw Carrot: We will need 1 cup of raw carrots for this recipe. Make sure to wash and peel the carrots before slicing them into bite-sized pieces.
Mushrooms: We will need 1 cup of sliced mushrooms. You can use any type of mushrooms you prefer. Button mushrooms or baby bella mushrooms work well for this recipe.
Chicken Broth: We will need 1 cup of chicken broth for this recipe. You can use homemade chicken broth or store-bought. If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, you can use water instead.
Milk: We will need 1 cup of milk. You can use whole milk or 2% milk for this recipe.
Garlic: We will need 3 cloves of garlic, minced. Garlic adds a savory flavor to this dish and pairs well with the other ingredients.
Olive Oil: We will need 1 tablespoon of olive oil. It’s used to sauté the vegetables before adding them to the slow cooker.
Salt and Pepper: We will need salt and pepper to taste. Season the chicken and vegetables with salt and pepper before cooking.
Fresh Thyme: We will need 2 teaspoons of fresh thyme leaves. Thyme adds a fragrant and earthy flavor to this dish. If you don’t have fresh thyme, you can use dried thyme instead.
The Recipe How-To
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Before you start, make sure you have all the ingredients on hand to make this delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Recipe. You’ll need boneless, skinless chicken breasts, potatoes, raw carrots, mushrooms, chicken broth, garlic, milk, and some olive oil.
Step 2: Prep the Veggies
Wash the potatoes, carrots, and mushrooms thoroughly. Cut the potatoes and carrots into small bite-size pieces. Slice the mushrooms into thin pieces.
Step 3: Brown the Chicken and Garlic
Heat some olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until browned on both sides. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 4: Add Everything to the Slow Cooker
Add the browned chicken and garlic to the slow cooker along with the prepared vegetables. Pour in the chicken broth and give everything a good stir.
Step 5: Slow Cook the Chicken
Put the lid on the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. About 30 minutes before serving, add some milk to the slow cooker and give everything a final stir.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve this delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Recipe with some rice or noodles, or enjoy it on its own. The chicken will be perfectly cooked and will simply fall apart in your mouth. This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something easy, healthy, and satisfying.
Substitutions and Variations
One of the things I love about this slow cooker chicken recipe is how versatile it is. You can easily switch up the ingredients to create new and exciting variations. Here are some ideas to get you started:
– Vegetables: Instead of using potatoes and raw carrots, try adding sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or sweet potatoes. You could also throw in some frozen peas or corn in the last hour of cooking for a pop of color and texture.
– Milk: If you don’t have milk on hand, you can use heavy cream, half-and-half, or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
– Chicken: This recipe calls for boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but you could also use chicken thighs or a combination of both. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs will work perfectly and add more flavor to the dish.
– Broth: Instead of using chicken broth, you could use beef or vegetable broth. For a richer flavor, try using bone broth.
– Seasonings: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to add extra flavor. Try adding some garlic powder, paprika, or cumin for a smoky, savory taste.
– Rice: Instead of serving the chicken over potatoes, you could serve it over rice. Simply cook some rice separately and spoon the chicken and vegetables over the top.
– Pasta: Another option is to serve the chicken over cooked pasta. This works particularly well with a tomato-based sauce.
– Dumplings: For a heartier version of this recipe, you could add some dumplings to the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking. Simply mix together some flour, baking powder, and milk to form a dough and drop spoonfuls onto the chicken and vegetables.
Overall, don’t be afraid to get creative with this recipe and make it your own. With so many delicious substitutions and variations to try, you’ll never get bored of this easy and yummy slow cooker chicken recipe.
Serving and Pairing
This slow cooker chicken recipe is versatile, making it perfect for a variety of serving and pairing options. Here are a few ideas to help you get started:
– Serve the chicken and veggies over a bed of rice, quinoa, or even pasta for a hearty and filling meal.
– Top the chicken with some shredded cheese and crushed tortilla chips for a delicious chicken tortilla soup.
– Add some cream and serve the chicken and veggies over mashed potatoes for a comforting and satisfying meal.
– Pair the chicken with a side salad for a lighter option.
– Serve the chicken on top of a toasted bun with some coleslaw for a tasty pulled chicken sandwich.
– For a more Italian-inspired dish, serve the chicken and veggies with some garlic bread and a side Caesar salad.
– If you’re feeling adventurous, try pairing the chicken with some roasted sweet potatoes and brussels sprouts for a healthy and flavorful meal.
No matter how you choose to serve and pair this slow cooker chicken recipe, it’s sure to be a hit with the whole family. Don’t be afraid to get creative and try something new!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
One of the best things about this slow cooker chicken recipe is that it can be made ahead of time and stored for later. If you know you’ll have a busy week ahead, take some time to prepare this dish before the chaos begins. This way, you can enjoy a delicious and hearty meal without the stress of preparing it on the spot.
To make this dish ahead of time, simply follow the recipe instructions as usual, but stop before adding any garnishes or toppings. Once the chicken is cooked, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To reheat the chicken, simply place it in a microwave-safe dish and heat it in the microwave until it’s hot all the way through. You can also reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through.
If you find that the chicken has dried out a bit during storage, you can add a splash of chicken broth or water to moisten it up. You can also add some fresh herbs or spices to give it some extra flavor.
Overall, this slow cooker chicken recipe is a great option for anyone who wants to save time and still enjoy a delicious and healthy meal. With a little bit of preparation, you can have a tasty and satisfying dish ready to go whenever you need it.
Tips for Perfect Results
Now that you have the basic recipe for slow cooker chicken, it’s time to discuss some tips and tricks that will guarantee perfect results every time.
1. Brown the chicken before slow cooking: To add extra flavor and texture to the chicken, sear it in a hot skillet with some olive oil before adding it to the slow cooker. This will also help to lock in the juices and prevent the chicken from becoming dry.
2. Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts: This recipe calls for boneless, skinless chicken breasts because they cook quickly and are easy to shred for serving. However, if you prefer chicken thighs or a combination of both, feel free to use them instead.
3. Don’t overcook the vegetables: Make sure to cut the potatoes, carrots, and mushrooms into roughly the same size pieces to ensure even cooking. It’s important not to overcook the vegetables as they can become mushy and lose their flavor.
4. Add liquids sparingly: The slow cooker will trap moisture, so you don’t need to add too much liquid. Start with 1/2 cup of chicken broth or water and add more if needed. Too much liquid can result in a soupy consistency.
5. Choose the right size slow cooker: Make sure to use the right size slow cooker for the recipe. If the slow cooker is too small, the ingredients will be crowded and won’t cook evenly. If the slow cooker is too large, the food will cook too quickly and become dry.
6. Stir occasionally: While it’s not necessary to stir the ingredients continuously, stirring occasionally will help to distribute the flavors and ensure even cooking.
7. Let it rest: Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for at least 10 minutes before shredding it. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender chicken.
8. Adjust seasoning: Taste the chicken and vegetables before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add salt, pepper, or other herbs and spices to suit your taste.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to create a delicious and flavorful slow cooker chicken dish every time.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this easy and yummy slow cooker chicken recipe is perfect for those busy days when you don’t have time to cook but still want a delicious and healthy meal. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful and comforting dish that will satisfy your taste buds and your hunger.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, this recipe is easy to follow and will give you great results every time. Plus, it’s versatile and can be customized to your liking, making it a great option for picky eaters or those with dietary restrictions.
So the next time you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal, give this slow cooker chicken recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed!
Easy & Yummy Slow Cooker Chicken Recipe
This very easy recipe is great for a busy workday… just throw it all in the slow cooker in the morning, and have a wonderful hot and yummy sit-down dinner that night! I use frozen chicken breasts and add 2 cans of soup for lots of sauce. I make extra for a great work-day lunch for the next day. Enjoy!
- 6 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 (10 ounce) cans cream of mushroom soup
- 1 (2 ounce) envelope onion soup mix (or onion dip mix)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup mushroom
- 1 cup raw carrot (I use the bagged peeled & cut kind)
- 6 medium potatoes, peeled and cut
- Put frozen chicken into slow cooker.
- In a bowl, mix soup, onion mix, and milk. Stir. Add into slow cooker.
- Add cut vegetables to the slow cooker and mix.
- Cook on low for 7-9 hours, or high for 4-5 hours.
[custom-related-posts title=”Recommended Recipes Just For You” none_text=”None found” order_by=”date” order=”ASC”]