Weeknights just got easier! Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a delicious, hearty meal that's also incredibly simple to make? Then look no further than this incredibly flavorful chicken and sausage slow cooker recipe. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a healthy and satisfying meal with minimal effort. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this homemade cooking masterpiece, a true testament to the power of slow cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 oz) can great northern beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
-
Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step adds depth of flavor to your dish.
-
Brown the sausage: Add the Italian sausage to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. This step renders some of the fat from the sausage, resulting in a richer flavor. Drain off any excess grease.
-
Combine ingredients in the slow cooker: Transfer the sausage and onion mixture to your slow cooker. Add the chicken, diced tomatoes (undrained!), great northern beans, chicken broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
-
Slow cook to perfection: 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. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together, resulting in a more intense and delicious dish.
-
Shred and serve: Once the chicken is cooked, use two forks to shred it directly in the slow cooker. Stir to combine everything thoroughly. Serve hot with crusty bread or your favorite side dish. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- For a thicker sauce, remove about a cup of the cooking liquid before shredding the chicken and simmer it uncovered for 10-15 minutes. You can also thicken it with a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water).
- Feel free to experiment with different types of sausage. Andouille sausage or chorizo would add a delicious smoky kick.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or Parmesan cheese before serving for an extra touch of visual appeal and flavor.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken and Sausage: Add a teaspoon or two of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Creamy Chicken and Sausage: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or coconut milk during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a richer, creamier texture.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the sausage and chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian option. Adjust seasonings to taste.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: 30-35g Fat: 15-20g Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This chicken and sausage slow cooker recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. It's a quick dinner idea that delivers big on flavor, making it a perfect addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. Enjoy this delicious dish, a testament to the magic of homemade cooking!