Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a delicious, healthy meal that doesn't require hours in the kitchen? Then look no further! This Chicken Spinach Crock Pot recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's incredibly easy to make, packed with flavor, and offers a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy, homemade dinner without the fuss. This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes, quick dinner ideas, and delicious dishes that the whole family will love. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 10 oz frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Getting Started:
- Place the chopped onion and minced garlic in the bottom of your slow cooker. This allows them to gently soften and release their flavor throughout the cooking process.
- Top the onions and garlic with the boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Arrange them in a single layer if possible for even cooking.
Cooking the Chicken and Spinach:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, oregano, salt, and pepper. This creates a creamy sauce that will perfectly complement the chicken and spinach.
- Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- Add the thawed and squeezed dry spinach on top of the chicken and sauce. Squeezing out excess water from the spinach is crucial to prevent a watery final dish.
Slow Cooking to Perfection:
- 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 cooking time on low allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Once the chicken is cooked, use two forks to shred it directly in the slow cooker. Stir to combine the shredded chicken with the sauce and spinach.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this delicious Chicken Spinach Crock Pot recipe over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese adds a lovely finishing touch. This recipe provides a healthy and satisfying meal, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual weekend lunch. It's a versatile dish that can easily be adapted to your preferences.
Cooking Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Creamy dream: For an even creamier sauce, stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese at the end.
- Add some veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or carrots.
- Make it cheesy: Use different types of cheese – mozzarella, cheddar, or a Mexican blend would all be delicious.
- Meal prep friendly: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. Make a big batch on Sunday and enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This Chicken Spinach Crock Pot recipe is a true testament to the power of simple, healthy cooking. It's a delicious, easy, and satisfying meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy!