Are you looking for an easy, healthy, and delicious weeknight meal? Look no further! This crock pot chicken quarters recipe is perfect for busy individuals or families who want a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Tender, juicy chicken, bursting with flavor, awaits you! This recipe is a quick dinner idea that's also a fantastic addition to your collection of best recipes. It's so simple, even beginners can master this easy recipe. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken quarters
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite kind!)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken quarters dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, thyme, and rosemary. This simple seasoning step elevates the flavor significantly.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until slightly softened. This step adds depth of flavor to your delicious dish.
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Combine in the Crock Pot: Transfer the sautéed vegetables to your slow cooker. Place the seasoned chicken quarters on top of the vegetables. Pour the chicken broth and barbecue sauce over the chicken and vegetables.
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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. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
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Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the crock pot and let it rest for a few minutes before shredding or serving whole. The delicious juices from the crock pot can be used to make a gravy or served over rice, mashed potatoes, or your favorite side dish. This healthy meal is perfect for a quick dinner!
Tips for Perfect Crock Pot Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the crock pot: Ensure there's enough space between the chicken quarters for even cooking.
- Browning the chicken (optional): For extra flavor, you can brown the chicken quarters in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker.
- Adjust the seasonings: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor combinations. A dash of paprika or smoked paprika adds a delicious smoky note.
Variations:
- Lemon Herb Chicken: Replace the barbecue sauce with lemon juice, and add fresh herbs like parsley and oregano.
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the cooking liquid for a spicy kick.
- Buffalo Chicken: Use buffalo wing sauce instead of barbecue sauce for a game-day favorite.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This easy recipe for crock pot chicken quarters is a surefire way to create a flavorful and satisfying meal with minimal effort. It’s a fantastic addition to your repertoire of homemade cooking techniques, delivering a healthy meal that is both delicious and convenient. Enjoy!