Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen after a long day? Do you crave delicious, healthy meals without the fuss? Then you've come to the right place! This recipe highlights the magic of the slow cooker, transforming simple ingredients into incredibly flavorful and comforting crockpot simmer pot recipes. These are perfect for busy weeknights, weekend meal prep, or even impressing guests without the stress of complicated cooking techniques. Get ready to discover the ease and enjoyment of effortless homemade cooking!
Ingredients:
This recipe is incredibly versatile; feel free to substitute ingredients based on your preferences and what you have on hand.
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Get started:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the chicken pieces in batches, ensuring they are lightly seared on all sides. This step adds depth of flavor.
- Transfer the browned chicken to your slow cooker.
Building the flavor:
- Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the skillet and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until softened. This step helps to develop the flavor base of your simmer pot.
- Pour the sautéed vegetables over the chicken in the slow cooker.
Simmering to perfection:
- Add the diced tomatoes (undrained), chickpeas, chicken broth, oregano, basil, garlic powder, and black pepper to the slow cooker. Stir everything gently to combine. Season with salt to taste.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Serving suggestions:
- Before serving, garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with a side of crusty bread, rice, or your favorite vegetables. This hearty and delicious meal is perfect for a comforting and satisfying dinner.
Cooking Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the slow cooker: Allow space for the ingredients to cook evenly. If you have a large amount of ingredients, consider using a larger slow cooker or cooking in batches.
- Adjust seasoning to your liking: Taste and adjust seasonings as needed throughout the cooking process. You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Thicken the sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Variations:
- Beef Simmer Pot: Substitute the chicken with 1.5 lbs of beef stew meat. Increase the cooking time accordingly.
- Vegetarian Simmer Pot: Omit the chicken and add 1 cup of cooked lentils or quinoa for extra protein.
- Spicy Simmer Pot: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30g
This recipe provides a delicious and healthy meal option that is perfect for busy weeknights. The crockpot does all the work, allowing you to enjoy a homemade dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy this easy, flavorful, and satisfying crockpot simmer pot recipe!