Are you craving a delicious, healthy, and effortless dinner? Look no further! This easy slow cooker chicken and potatoes recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. Imagine tender, juicy chicken and perfectly cooked potatoes, seasoned to perfection, all ready to be enjoyed without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, delivering a hearty and satisfying meal that's both quick dinner ideas and healthy meals all in one. It's one of the best recipes for those aiming for simple yet delicious food.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 lbs baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
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Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step adds a depth of flavor that elevates the entire dish.
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Combine Ingredients: Transfer the sautéed vegetables to your slow cooker. Add the chicken pieces, potatoes, thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring all the ingredients are well coated.
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Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker 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 for doneness by piercing the thickest part of the chicken with a fork; the juices should run clear.
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Serve: Once cooked, remove the lid and allow the chicken and potatoes to rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. You can garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an extra touch of freshness.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Add a bay leaf during cooking and remove before serving. You could also incorporate a splash of white wine or lemon juice for a zesty twist.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving for a richer, creamier texture.
- Vegetable variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli florets, or green beans. Adjust cooking time as needed, depending on the vegetable you choose.
- Different Cuts of Chicken: While chicken thighs work best for their tenderness and flavor, you can also use chicken breasts, but be mindful they might dry out slightly if overcooked. Reduce the cooking time accordingly.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This easy slow cooker chicken and potatoes recipe is a versatile and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. It's a great example of how delicious and healthy food doesn't have to be complicated. Enjoy this comforting classic!