Are you tired of complicated recipes and endless meal prep? Craving a healthy, flavorful dinner that doesn't require hours in the kitchen? Then look no further! This crockpot chicken and veggies recipe is your answer. It’s incredibly easy, bursting with flavor, and perfect for a busy weeknight. Get ready to enjoy a delicious, homemade meal without the fuss! This recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes and healthy meals combined.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
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Prep the Veggies: Begin by washing and chopping all your vegetables. This is a great time to get the kids involved in the homemade cooking process! Rough chopping is perfectly fine; no need for perfection here.
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Sear the Chicken (Optional): For extra flavor, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken breasts on both sides for about 2-3 minutes per side. This step isn't mandatory, but it adds a lovely depth of flavor.
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Layer in the Crockpot: Place the chopped onion, carrots, and celery in the bottom of your slow cooker. Arrange the chicken breasts on top of the vegetables.
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Add the Liquid and Seasonings: Pour the diced tomatoes (undrained), chicken broth, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper over the chicken and vegetables.
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Cook it Low and Slow: Cover and 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 Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine with the vegetables and sauce. Serve hot! This makes a perfect quick dinner idea.
Tips for the Best Crockpot Chicken and Veggies:
- Don't overcrowd the crockpot: Ensure there's enough space for the ingredients to cook evenly. If necessary, use a larger crockpot or cook in batches.
- Adjust seasonings to taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor. Garlic powder, paprika, or a pinch of red pepper flakes would all be delicious additions.
- 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.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve this delicious dish over rice, quinoa, couscous, or mashed potatoes for a satisfying and complete meal.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes, bell peppers, zucchini, or green beans.
- Use different protein: Substitute the chicken with turkey breast, pork tenderloin, or even beef stew meat for a hearty twist.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This crockpot chicken and veggies recipe is a fantastic example of delicious dishes that are both easy to prepare and packed with nutrients. It’s a perfect recipe for busy weeknights and a great way to enjoy healthy and homemade cooking. Enjoy!