Craving a warm, comforting meal that’s also incredibly easy to make? Look no further than this creamy chicken slow cooker recipe! This delicious and healthy dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend dinner. Forget about complicated cooking techniques – this recipe is all about simple ingredients and effortless preparation, resulting in a flavorful and satisfying meal the whole family will love. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its best, offering a delicious alternative to takeout or quick, less healthy dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup milk (whole milk recommended)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step adds depth of flavor to your creamy chicken.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker
Transfer the sautéed vegetables to your slow cooker. Add the chicken breasts, chicken broth, heavy cream, milk, flour, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients ensuring the flour is fully incorporated to avoid lumps.
Step 3: Slow Cook 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 it simmers, the richer the flavor will become.
Step 4: Shred and Serve
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir gently to combine it with the creamy sauce. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips for the Best Creamy Chicken:
- Don't overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- For a thicker sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a tablespoon or two of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water to the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking.
- Make it your own: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as mushrooms, peas, or potatoes. You could also experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor.
Variations:
- Spicy Creamy Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice: Serve this creamy chicken over a bed of cooked wild rice for a hearty and nutritious meal.
- Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Filling: Use this recipe as a filling for homemade chicken pot pies for a delicious twist on a classic dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This easy slow cooker recipe offers a healthy and delicious meal, perfect for those busy weeknights. It's a fantastic example of a quick dinner idea that doesn't compromise on flavor or nutrition. Enjoy!