Are you looking for a simple yet incredibly flavorful weeknight dinner? Then look no further! This recipe for cubed chicken crock pot recipes is your new go-to for effortless, healthy, and delicious meals. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe requires minimal prep time and lets your slow cooker do all the hard work, leaving you with juicy, tender chicken that's bursting with flavor. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, and it’s one of the best recipes for those seeking quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- Optional: 1 cup baby carrots, 1 cup broccoli florets, or other desired vegetables
Instructions:
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Prep the Chicken and Vegetables: Begin by cubing the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Chop the onion and mince the garlic. If using vegetables, prepare them now as well.
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Combine Ingredients in Crock Pot: Place the cubed chicken in your slow cooker. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, thyme, pepper, and salt. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.
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Cook on Low: 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. If adding vegetables, stir them in during the last hour of cooking time.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, serve the chicken over rice, mashed potatoes, noodles, or your favorite side dish. The tender chicken and flavorful sauce make a perfect combination.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the crock pot: Ensure there's enough space for the chicken and other ingredients to cook evenly. If necessary, cook in batches.
- Adjust seasonings to taste: Feel free to add more or less salt, pepper, or other seasonings to suit your preferences. A dash of paprika or garlic powder can elevate the flavor profile.
- Thicken the sauce (optional): For a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to form a slurry. Stir the slurry into the crock pot during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Use frozen chicken: If using frozen chicken, add an extra hour to the cooking time.
Variations:
- Teriyaki Chicken: Replace the cream of mushroom soup with 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce and add a tablespoon of honey for a sweet and savory twist.
- BBQ Chicken: Substitute BBQ sauce for the cream of mushroom soup and add a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This easy crock pot chicken recipe is a perfect addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and easy recipes. It’s a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit various tastes and dietary needs, making it a great choice for families and individuals alike. Enjoy this delicious and effortless meal!