Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken with Vegetables
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken with Vegetables is a comforting and hearty dish that brings together tender chicken and vibrant veggies in a creamy sauce, all conveniently made in your slow cooker.
This dish has become a family favorite thanks to its simplicity and rich flavor. The slow cooker allows the chicken to become tender and juicy, while the vegetables add a touch of color and nutrition.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy texture that comforts the soul
- Tender chicken infused with flavorful herbs
- Convenient one-pot meal that saves time
- Packed with nutritious vegetables
A Perfect Family Meal
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken with Vegetables is an ideal dish for busy families looking to enjoy a hearty meal together. The slow cooker does most of the work, allowing you to spend quality time with your loved ones while the flavors meld beautifully. This recipe is not only delicious but also versatile; you can easily swap in your family's favorite vegetables or add a splash of hot sauce for a kick.
One of the great things about this dish is its adaptability. Whether you prefer to use fresh vegetables or frozen, this recipe accommodates your pantry staples. You can even modify the protein by substituting chicken for turkey or a plant-based alternative, making it inclusive for various dietary preferences. The creamy sauce ties everything together, ensuring every bite is satisfying.
Nutritional Benefits
This recipe is packed with nutritional benefits, making it a great choice for health-conscious eaters. Chicken breast is a lean source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health. The mixed vegetables add fiber, vitamins, and minerals, contributing to a well-rounded meal that supports your immune system and digestive health.
Moreover, the use of cream of chicken soup not only adds creaminess but also enhances the flavor without requiring extensive seasoning. This dish is an excellent way to sneak in those essential nutrients for picky eaters, as the creamy sauce makes the vegetables more appealing. By serving this dish over rice or noodles, you can also incorporate whole grains into your meal, boosting its nutritional profile.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers after enjoying this delicious meal, you're in luck! Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken with Vegetables stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheating is a breeze. You can warm it up in the microwave or reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if it thickens up too much.
For longer storage, consider freezing the dish. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. This meal can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat as mentioned before. This makes for a convenient and delicious meal option on busy days!
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to create a delicious meal:
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers)
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your creamy chicken dish:
Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. This step is optional but adds extra flavor.
Load the Slow Cooker
Place the mixed vegetables at the bottom of the slow cooker. Lay the seared chicken breasts on top.
Add the Sauce
In a medium bowl, mix the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, dried thyme, and additional salt and pepper if desired. Pour this mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.
Cook
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. Ensure the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Serve
Shred the chicken with two forks and stir to combine with the sauce and vegetables. Serve hot over rice or noodles if desired.
Enjoy your deliciously creamy chicken meal!
Serving Suggestions
This creamy chicken dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a comforting meal, serve it over fluffy white rice, which soaks up the rich sauce, or opt for whole grain rice for added fiber. Noodles are another fantastic choice, providing a satisfying base that complements the creamy texture of the dish.
If you're looking to enhance the meal further, consider adding a fresh salad on the side. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the creamy chicken. Alternatively, garlic bread or dinner rolls make for great accompaniments, perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce.
Customization Ideas
Feel free to customize this slow cooker recipe to suit your taste preferences. If you love a bit of spice, adding diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper can elevate the flavor profile. For a more herby taste, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil just before serving, giving a burst of freshness.
You can also experiment with different types of vegetables based on what you have on hand. Zucchini, corn, or even green beans can work beautifully in this dish. Don’t hesitate to mix and match; the creamy sauce works well with various vegetable combinations, ensuring that every iteration remains delicious.
Cooking Tips
To ensure the best results, make sure to sear the chicken before placing it in the slow cooker. This step, while optional, enhances the flavor by creating a delicious crust on the chicken. If you’re short on time, you can skip this but expect slightly less depth in flavor.
Additionally, keep an eye on the cooking time based on your slow cooker’s heat settings. Using a meat thermometer can help confirm the chicken's doneness; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. This way, you can achieve perfectly tender chicken without overcooking it, ensuring a delightful dining experience.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables work well in this recipe and save you prep time.
→ How can I make this dish healthier?
You can use low-fat cream of chicken soup and add more vegetables for a healthier option.
→ Can I substitute the chicken?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless thighs or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken with Vegetables
This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken with Vegetables is a comforting and hearty dish that brings together tender chicken and vibrant veggies in a creamy sauce, all conveniently made in your slow cooker.
Created by: Marley Quinn
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers)
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
How-To Steps
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. This step is optional but adds extra flavor.
Place the mixed vegetables at the bottom of the slow cooker. Lay the seared chicken breasts on top.
In a medium bowl, mix the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, dried thyme, and additional salt and pepper if desired. Pour this mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. Ensure the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Shred the chicken with two forks and stir to combine with the sauce and vegetables. Serve hot over rice or noodles if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
- Sodium: 720mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 36g