Are you looking for an easy, healthy, and delicious dinner recipe that requires minimal effort? Look no further! This Chicken and Potatoes Crockpot recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's a comforting, flavorful dish that's incredibly simple to make, letting your slow cooker do all the hard work. This recipe is perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas and homemade cooking without sacrificing taste. It’s a fantastic example of healthy meals made easy. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1.5 lbs small red potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Prep the Ingredients: Begin by washing and chopping all your vegetables. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This ensures even cooking in the crockpot.
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Sear the Chicken (Optional but Recommended): For added flavor, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken pieces for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned. This step isn't strictly necessary, but it adds a lovely depth of flavor.
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Layer in the Crockpot: Place the seared (or unseared) chicken at the bottom of your slow cooker. Add the chopped potatoes, onions, and carrots.
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Season and Add Liquid: Sprinkle the thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper evenly over the vegetables and chicken. Pour the chicken broth over everything.
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Slow Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.
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Stir and Garnish: Once cooked, stir gently to combine everything. Stir in the fresh parsley just before serving.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't Overcrowd the Crockpot: Ensure there's enough space for the ingredients to cook evenly. If necessary, use a larger slow cooker or cook in batches.
- Adjust Cooking Time: Cooking times may vary depending on your slow cooker and the size of your potatoes and chicken. Always check for doneness before serving.
- Thicken the Sauce (Optional): For a thicker sauce, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Delicious Variations:
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli florets, bell peppers, or green beans.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Use different herbs: Experiment with other herbs like oregano or sage.
- Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or sour cream during the last 15 minutes of cooking for a richer, creamier dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. This recipe makes approximately 6 servings.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30g
This Chicken and Potatoes Crockpot recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's a simple, flavorful, and satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend dinner. Enjoy!