Tired of cooking huge batches of food just for yourself or your partner? A 2-quart crock-pot is the perfect solution for creating delicious, healthy meals without the leftovers! This handy appliance is ideal for easy recipes and quick dinner ideas, making homemade cooking a breeze, even on busy weeknights. We're sharing some of the best recipes tailored specifically for your smaller crock-pot, perfect for those delicious dishes designed for smaller households.
Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken for Two
This recipe is a perfect example of how a small crock-pot can deliver big flavor. It's a healthy meal, packed with protein and fresh ingredients, and incredibly easy to make.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Place the chicken pieces in the bottom of your 2-quart crock-pot.
- Add the diced tomatoes (undrained), chicken broth, heavy cream, minced garlic, basil, and oregano. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork.
- Before serving, shred the chicken with two forks directly in the crock-pot. Stir to combine the shredded chicken with the sauce.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired. Serve over pasta, rice, or quinoa.
Cooking Tips:
- For a richer flavor, use fresh basil instead of dried. About 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil would be a good substitute.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, such as sliced mushrooms or bell peppers, to the crock-pot along with the chicken.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Lemon Herb Chicken: Substitute lemon juice for some of the chicken broth and add fresh thyme or rosemary.
- Creamy Spinach Chicken: Stir in a cup of fresh spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400
- Protein: Approximately 40g
- Fat: Approximately 20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10g
More 2-Quart Crock-Pot Recipe Ideas:
Your 2-quart crock-pot is incredibly versatile! You can adapt many recipes to fit its smaller capacity. Here are some other quick dinner ideas perfect for your smaller appliance:
- Slow Cooker Chili: A hearty and satisfying meal perfect for chilly evenings. Adjust your favorite chili recipe to fit the smaller pot.
- Pulled Pork Sliders: Great for a cozy night in.
- Sausage and Peppers: A simple, flavorful, and quick weeknight meal.
Remember to always adjust cooking times based on your crock-pot's settings and the size of your ingredients. Experiment with different flavors and ingredients to discover your favorite 2-quart crock-pot recipes. Enjoy the convenience and deliciousness of homemade cooking, perfectly sized for two!