Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken with Vegetables
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken with Vegetables is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken with a medley of fresh vegetables, all enveloped in a rich and creamy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights!
This dish is perfect for families and meal prepping. The slow cooker ensures that the chicken stays juicy while the flavors meld together beautifully.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy and rich sauce that complements the chicken perfectly
- Versatile with a variety of vegetables to choose from
- Hands-off cooking: just set it and forget it!
- Great for leftovers and meal prep
The Perfect Comfort Food
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the warm embrace of creamy slow-cooked chicken with vegetables. This recipe is not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to prepare. The combination of tender chicken and a variety of vegetables creates a wholesome meal that is perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. The rich sauce adds a luxurious touch, making it feel like a special occasion dish, even on the busiest of weeknights.
The slow cooker allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that is both flavorful and hearty. The longer cooking time ensures that the chicken remains juicy and the vegetables become tender without losing their vibrant colors. It's a meal that appeals to both adults and children alike, making it an ideal choice for families looking to please everyone at the table.
Customizable Ingredients
One of the best aspects of this creamy chicken recipe is its versatility. While the recipe calls for carrots, celery, potatoes, and peas, you can easily substitute or add other vegetables based on your family's preferences or what you have on hand. Consider using bell peppers, green beans, or even corn for a pop of color and flavor. This adaptability ensures that you can enjoy this dish frequently without it feeling repetitive.
You can also switch up the protein used in this recipe. While chicken is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with turkey or even a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian version. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is perfectly cooked and delicious.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This creamy slow cooker chicken not only makes for a delightful dinner but also shines as a meal prep star. You can easily double the recipe to have leftovers for the week ahead. The flavors intensify as it sits, making it a perfect dish to reheat for lunch or dinner. Serve it with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread to enjoy a wholesome meal that saves you time during your busy week.
Storing the leftovers is a breeze. Just transfer the chicken and vegetables to an airtight container and refrigerate. You can keep it for up to four days in the fridge, and it also freezes well for longer storage. When you need a quick meal, simply thaw and reheat for a comforting dish that feels like it was just made fresh.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Vegetables
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups diced carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 cup diced potatoes
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to adjust the seasoning according to your taste!
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Slow Cooker
In the slow cooker, combine the carrots, celery, potatoes, peas, garlic, and onion.
Add the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts on top of the vegetables. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
Add Liquids
Pour the chicken broth and heavy cream over the chicken and vegetables.
Cook
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Shred and Serve
Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the slow cooker. Stir well and serve warm.
Enjoy your creamy chicken dish with rice or crusty bread!
Tips for Success
To ensure the best results, avoid overcooking the chicken in the slow cooker. Cooking it on low for about six hours usually yields perfectly tender chicken. You can also use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove the lid during the last hour of cooking to allow some of the liquid to evaporate, or you can mix in a cornstarch slurry (a mix of cornstarch and water) during the final cooking phase.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy chicken dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside some warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables can also complement the meal, adding a refreshing crunch and balance to the creamy richness.
For an extra touch, sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top before serving. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds a burst of flavor that brightens the dish.
Nutritional Information
This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken with Vegetables is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The chicken provides a great source of protein, while the variety of vegetables offers essential vitamins and minerals. Carrots bring in beta-carotene, celery adds fiber, and potatoes contribute potassium, making this dish a well-rounded option for a nourishing meal.
While this recipe does include heavy cream, which adds richness, you can opt for lighter alternatives such as half-and-half or coconut milk if you're looking to reduce calories or dairy. This way, you can enjoy a creamy texture without compromising your dietary goals.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but ensure it cooks for at least 6 to 8 hours on low.
→ What can I serve with this dish?
It's great with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.
→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep the ingredients and store them in the fridge until ready to cook.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken with Vegetables
This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken with Vegetables is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken with a medley of fresh vegetables, all enveloped in a rich and creamy sauce. 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
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups diced carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 cup diced potatoes
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In the slow cooker, combine the carrots, celery, potatoes, peas, garlic, and onion.
Place the chicken breasts on top of the vegetables. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
Pour the chicken broth and heavy cream over the chicken and vegetables.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the slow cooker. Stir well and serve warm.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 750mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 30g