Are you craving a delicious and healthy meal that's also incredibly easy to make? Look no further! This slow cooker chicken apple recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend dinner. The sweet and savory combination of tender chicken and juicy apples, simmered to perfection in a rich broth, is guaranteed to become a family favorite. This recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, offering a healthy and delicious alternative to takeout or processed meals. It's one of those quick dinner ideas that doesn't compromise on flavor or nutrition.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 medium apples (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala work well), peeled, cored, and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup apple cider
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Get started:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until lightly browned on all sides. This step helps to develop a richer flavor.
- Transfer the browned chicken to your slow cooker.
Building the flavor:
- Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the same skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This adds depth to the overall taste of the dish.
- Transfer the vegetables to the slow cooker with the chicken.
Slow cooking magic:
- Pour the chicken broth and apple cider over the chicken and vegetables.
- Stir in the diced apples, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the chicken and apple mixture over rice, mashed potatoes, or quinoa for a complete and satisfying meal. You can also serve it with crusty bread for dipping into the delicious sauce.
Cooking Tips for Best Results:
- For extra flavor, add a bay leaf to the slow cooker along with the other ingredients. Remove before serving.
- Don't overcook the chicken; it should be tender and juicy, not dry.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Herby delight: Experiment with different herbs such as rosemary or marjoram.
- Sweet and savory boost: Include a tablespoon of Dijon mustard or honey for an extra layer of flavor.
- Stuffing variation: Use this chicken mixture as a stuffing for roasted chicken or turkey.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a healthy and balanced meal, rich in protein and fiber. Nutritional values will vary depending on serving size and specific ingredients used. A general estimate per serving is:
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
This easy chicken apple recipe is perfect for those seeking delicious and healthy food recipes. It's a versatile dish that can be adapted to your preferences, making it a great addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. Enjoy!