Are you craving a warm, comforting meal that's also incredibly easy to make? Look no further! This creamy chicken recipe, slow-cooked to perfection in your trusty crockpot, is the ultimate in delicious and effortless homemade cooking. It's a fantastic option for busy weeknights, perfect for a quick dinner idea, and guaranteed to become a family favorite. Get ready to enjoy this simple yet satisfying dish!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup (optional, for extra richness)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Prep the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker.
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Sauce it Up: In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup (and cream of chicken soup, if using), chicken broth, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), onion, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
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Combine and Cook: Pour the sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker.
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Slow 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.
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Shred and Stir: 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.
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Cheese Please (Optional): If using, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
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Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread. Enjoy this healthy meal!
Tips for the Best Crockpot Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the crockpot: Ensure there's enough space for the chicken to cook evenly.
- Use a meat thermometer: Check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile. A dash of paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper adds a nice kick.
- 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 slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Enhance your dish with carrots, celery, potatoes, or mushrooms. Add them along with the chicken.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
- Use different cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or pepper jack.
- Make it a complete meal: Add cooked pasta, quinoa, or rice to the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking for a hearty one-pot meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on a recipe yielding 6 servings and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. Always consult a nutrition calculator for precise values.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This easy crockpot recipe is a perfect example of delicious dishes that are also healthy meals. The convenience of slow cooking makes it ideal for busy individuals or families seeking quick dinner ideas. This recipe is among the best recipes for its simplicity and satisfying flavor. Enjoy!