Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that requires minimal effort? Look no further! This creamy crock pot chicken breast recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's a delicious, healthy, and incredibly easy dish that's sure to become a family favorite. Forget complicated recipes – this one is ready in just a few simple steps, leaving you with more time to relax and enjoy your homemade cooking. This recipe uses pantry staples, making it a great option for quick dinner ideas and even better, it's one of the best recipes for healthy meals!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup milk (whole milk recommended for extra creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for extra cheesy goodness!)
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in your slow cooker.
- Combine the sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, milk, Dijon mustard, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour over chicken: Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- Cook: 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.
- Shred & Serve: Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine with the sauce. If using, stir in the cheddar cheese until melted.
- Garnish: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Serve over rice, mashed potatoes, pasta, or your favorite side dish.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Crock Pot Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the crockpot: Ensure there's enough space for the chicken to cook evenly. If needed, cook in batches.
- Use a meat thermometer: Check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- Adjust seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking. Add a pinch of paprika, onion powder, or cayenne pepper for extra flavor.
- Thicken the sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Include chopped carrots, celery, or mushrooms for a heartier meal. Add them to the slow cooker along with the chicken.
- Spice it up: Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Creamy Ranch Chicken: Substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of ranch soup for a different flavor profile.
- Lemon Herb Chicken: Add the zest and juice of one lemon along with fresh herbs like rosemary and oregano.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400 (depending on serving size and added ingredients)
- Protein: High
- Fat: Moderate
- Carbohydrates: Low to Moderate (depending on side dish)
This creamy crock pot chicken breast recipe is a fantastic example of how easy and delicious homemade cooking can be. It's a versatile dish that can be easily customized to suit your preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy this simple yet satisfying meal, perfect for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend dinner. It's one of those easy recipes that's always a crowd-pleaser!