Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken with Vegetables
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Experience a comforting and hearty meal with this Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken with Vegetables, perfect for busy weeknights.
This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken with Vegetables is a family favorite. The chicken becomes tender and flavorful while the vegetables add a nutritious touch. Perfect for any day of the week!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy sauce that envelops tender chicken
- Packed with healthy vegetables for a complete meal
- Set it and forget it – perfect for busy schedules
A Hearty Meal for Any Night
This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken with Vegetables brings a delightful warmth to your dinner table, making it an ideal choice for chilly evenings. The tender chicken combined with a medley of fresh vegetables creates a dish that is both comforting and nutritious. Whether you’re winding down after a busy day or hosting a family gathering, this recipe ensures that everyone leaves the table satisfied.
The slow cooker method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a rich and creamy sauce that perfectly coats the chicken and vegetables. As the ingredients simmer together, they release their natural juices, creating a delicious broth that is as delightful as it is healthy. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare, allowing you to focus on what truly matters—spending time with loved ones.
Perfect for Busy Lives
One of the standout features of this recipe is its convenience. With just a little bit of prep time, you can set everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic while you go about your day. The 'set it and forget it' approach means you can tackle your to-do list, run errands, or even enjoy some well-deserved relaxation without worrying about dinner.
Moreover, this dish is incredibly forgiving. If you're short on time, you can even prep the ingredients the night before and store them in the fridge. Just toss everything into the slow cooker in the morning, and by the time you return home, a warm and hearty meal will be waiting for you. It's a great way to ensure you and your family enjoy a wholesome dinner without the fuss.
Versatile and Customizable
Another great aspect of this Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken with Vegetables is its versatility. Feel free to swap out the vegetables according to what you have on hand or what’s in season. Zucchini, bell peppers, or even sweet potatoes make excellent additions, allowing you to tailor the dish to your family's preferences. This flexibility ensures that you can enjoy this meal repeatedly without it becoming monotonous.
Additionally, if you’re looking to lighten the dish, you can substitute the heavy cream with a lower-fat option like half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Adding a splash of lemon juice right before serving can also brighten the flavors and provide a refreshing twist. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe a staple in your cooking repertoire.
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Vegetables
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 cups carrots, sliced
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 cup onion, diced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Gather all ingredients and prepare to cook!
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
Start by washing and chopping all vegetables. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary.
Combine in Slow Cooker
Place the chicken, carrots, celery, and onion in the slow cooker. Pour the chicken broth over the top.
Cook the Chicken
Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 6 hours.
Add Cream
After 6 hours, stir in the heavy cream and garlic, and cook for an additional 30 minutes.
Serve
Once done, serve hot over rice or with crusty bread for dipping.
Enjoy your delicious meal!
Nutritional Benefits
This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken with Vegetables not only satisfies the taste buds but also nourishes the body. The inclusion of chicken thighs provides a great source of protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health. Coupled with nutrient-rich vegetables like carrots and celery, this dish is a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals that support your immune system and promote good health.
Moreover, the use of chicken broth adds depth to the flavor while contributing to your daily intake of hydration. It’s a great way to enjoy a meal that fuels your body without compromising on taste. Enjoy this dish guilt-free, knowing that you’re treating yourself to something delicious and nutritious.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your dining experience, consider serving this creamy chicken dish over a bed of fluffy rice, quinoa, or even mashed potatoes. These sides absorb the rich sauce beautifully, ensuring that every bite is bursting with flavor. For those looking for a lighter option, a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can complement the meal perfectly, balancing the creaminess with freshness.
Don't forget to pair your meal with some crusty bread or dinner rolls for dipping. This not only makes for a hearty meal but also adds a comforting element that everyone will enjoy. Plus, the bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce, ensuring no flavor goes to waste.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers of this Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken with Vegetables, storing them is a breeze. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. Just make sure to label your containers with the date for easy tracking.
When it comes time to reheat, you can do so on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to restore the creaminess. Alternatively, you can use the microwave, but be sure to stir occasionally to ensure even heating. Enjoy the deliciousness all over again, making it feel like a new meal each time!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, frozen chicken can be used, but cooking time may need to be adjusted.
→ Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or peas.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients in this recipe are gluten-free.
→ Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative.
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken with Vegetables
Experience a comforting and hearty meal with this Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken with Vegetables, perfect for busy weeknights.
Created by: Marley Quinn
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken and Vegetables
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 cups carrots, sliced
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 cup onion, diced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Start by washing and chopping all vegetables. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary.
Place the chicken, carrots, celery, and onion in the slow cooker. Pour the chicken broth over the top.
Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 6 hours.
After 6 hours, stir in the heavy cream and garlic, and cook for an additional 30 minutes.
Once done, serve hot over rice or with crusty bread for dipping.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
- Sodium: 700mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 25g