Are you tired of complicated recipes and endless meal prep? Do you dream of delicious, healthy dinners without spending hours in the kitchen? Then you've come to the right place! This blog post is dedicated to the unsung hero of easy cooking: the 9x13 inch baking dish, specifically when used with your trusty crock pot. We’ll explore a world of simple, flavorful recipes perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or just a cozy night in. These recipes are so easy, even beginner cooks will feel like culinary masters!
Why 9x13 Crock Pot Recipes are the Best
Using a 9x13 inch dish in your slow cooker offers several advantages. The larger surface area ensures even cooking, resulting in perfectly tender meats and evenly distributed flavors. It’s also ideal for feeding a crowd or making extra for leftovers. Plus, cleanup is a breeze – simply transfer the dish to the fridge for easy storage and less washing up.
Recipe: Creamy Tuscan Chicken & Veggie Bake
This recipe is a delicious and healthy option perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. It’s packed with flavor, requires minimal prep time, and is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (10 oz) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 1 (10 oz) package frozen chopped broccoli, thawed
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
- Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Transfer the chicken and vegetable mixture to your 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Stir in diced tomatoes (undrained), spinach, broccoli, chicken broth, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Cover the dish and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until chicken is cooked through.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Tips:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer the mixture uncovered for the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
Variations:
- Spicy Tuscan Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Lemon Herb Chicken: Add the zest and juice of one lemon along with your herbs.
- Creamy Tomato Chicken: Omit the spinach and broccoli and increase the amount of diced tomatoes for a richer tomato flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350
- Protein: Approximately 30g
- Fat: Approximately 15g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15g
This creamy Tuscan chicken and veggie bake is a fantastic example of how easy and delicious homemade cooking can be. It's a great healthy meal option and it provides leftovers for lunch the next day! Experiment with different ingredients and variations to create your own unique masterpiece. You'll quickly discover the joy of effortless, flavorful meals made easy with your crock pot and a 9x13 inch baking dish. Happy cooking!