Craving a delicious, healthy, and effortless dinner? Look no further! This easy crockpot chicken and potatoes recipe is your answer. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe requires minimal prep time and delivers maximum flavor. It's a simple yet satisfying dish that the whole family will love, making it a fantastic addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and homemade cooking recipes. Let's dive into this comforting classic!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1.5 lbs baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Getting Started:
- Preheat your crockpot to low.
- In a large bowl, toss the potatoes, onion, carrots, and celery with olive oil, salt, and pepper. This ensures even cooking and delicious flavor.
Building the Flavor:
- Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Arrange the seasoned vegetables around the chicken.
- Sprinkle the minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary over the chicken and vegetables.
Slow Cooking to Perfection:
- Pour the chicken broth into the crockpot. This will help keep everything moist and tender.
- 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 potatoes are tender. You can easily check the chicken's doneness with a meat thermometer; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Serving Suggestions:
- Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks. Gently stir it back into the potatoes and vegetables.
- Serve this hearty and healthy meal as is, or alongside a side of crusty bread for dipping into the delicious juices.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Herby goodness: Experiment with other herbs like parsley, sage, or oregano.
- Creamy twist: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving for a richer, creamier dish.
- Root vegetable medley: Feel free to add other root vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes for added flavor and nutrition.
- Leftovers: This dish is even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 25-35g
This easy crockpot chicken and potatoes recipe is a fantastic example of delicious dishes that are both healthy and simple to make. It's a perfect weeknight meal for those looking for quick dinner ideas without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. Enjoy this comforting and satisfying dish!