Are you craving a delicious and healthy dinner that's also incredibly easy to make? Look no further! This Artichoke Chicken recipe, slow-cooked to perfection in your trusty crockpot, is the answer to your weeknight dinner woes. Tender chicken breasts infused with the bright, tangy flavors of artichoke hearts and a creamy sauce – it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that's surprisingly quick to prepare. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, making it a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (14 ounce) can artichoke hearts, drained and quartered
- 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Crockpot: Spray your crockpot with non-stick cooking spray. This simple step prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
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Layer the Ingredients: Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker. Evenly distribute the quartered artichoke hearts over the chicken.
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Combine the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. This creamy sauce is the key to the dish's incredible flavor.
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Pour and Cook: Pour the sauce over the chicken and artichoke hearts, ensuring the chicken is mostly submerged.
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Slow Cook: 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.
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Shred and Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir to combine with the sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes.
Cooking Tips for the Best Artichoke Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the crockpot: Ensure there's enough space for the sauce to circulate around the chicken for even cooking.
- Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before shredding.
- Adjust seasonings: Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to your preference. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick.
- Make it ahead: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. Prepare it in the morning and enjoy a delicious and healthy dinner when you get home.
Variations:
- Spicy Artichoke Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce for a spicier kick.
- Creamy Spinach Artichoke Chicken: Stir in a cup of frozen spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Lemon Herb Artichoke Chicken: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the sauce for a bright and zesty flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This easy crockpot artichoke chicken recipe is a fantastic example of delicious dishes that are also healthy meals. It's a versatile recipe that can be easily adapted to suit your preferences and dietary needs, making it a perfect addition to your homemade cooking repertoire. The best recipes are often the simplest, and this one certainly fits the bill. Enjoy!