If you’re anything like me, life can get pretty hectic, and that’s where the magic of crock pot recipes comes in! There’s something incredibly satisfying about tossing a few ingredients into a pot, setting it, and letting it do all the work while you go about your day. I’ve been using my trusty crock pot for years, and honestly, it’s a lifesaver for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Just imagine coming home to the rich aroma of a delicious meal waiting for you! This chicken dish is not only simple but also packed with flavor, and it’s one of my go-to recipes for those days when I need a comforting, home-cooked meal without any fuss. Trust me, once you try cooking with a crock pot, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
Ingredients List
For this delicious crock pot chicken dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 pounds of chicken (I usually go for boneless, skinless thighs for extra flavor)
- 1 cup of diced tomatoes (canned works perfectly, just drain a bit of the juice)
- 1 cup of chicken broth (homemade is great, but store-bought is just fine)
- 1 onion, chopped (I love using yellow onions, but feel free to use what you have)
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced (the more garlic, the better, right?)
- 1 teaspoon of salt (you can adjust this based on your taste)
- 1 teaspoon of pepper (freshly cracked is always a treat)
- 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning (this adds a lovely herbaceous note)
These ingredients come together to create a comforting meal that’s perfect for any night of the week!
How to Prepare Instructions
Alright, let’s get to the good stuff! Preparing this delicious crock pot chicken dish is as easy as pie. Here’s how to make it happen, step-by-step:
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
First things first, start by placing the 2 pounds of chicken right at the bottom of your crock pot. If you’re using thighs, the extra fat will melt away and add an incredible richness to the dish. Next, pour in 1 cup of diced tomatoes and 1 cup of chicken broth over the chicken. The broth is essential because it creates that lovely, moist environment for the chicken to cook perfectly. Trust me, you want that moisture!
Now, it’s time to add in the flavors. Toss in your chopped onion and minced garlic, spreading them evenly over the chicken and tomatoes. This layering helps everything cook together beautifully. Then, sprinkle the salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning over the top. Feel free to adjust the salt and pepper according to your personal taste; I often do!
Once everything is in, cover the crock pot with the lid. Now for the hardest part—waiting! You can set your crock pot to cook on low for about 6 hours or on high for around 3 hours. I usually opt for low; it allows the flavors to mingle and develop even more!
When the cooking time is up, just shred the chicken right in the pot with two forks, mixing it into that delightful broth. It’s so tender, it practically falls apart! Give it a taste, adjust any seasoning if needed, and you’re ready to serve. Voila! Dinner is done!
Nutritional Information
Before we dive into the deliciousness, let’s talk nutrition! Keep in mind that the nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these numbers are just estimates. Each serving of this scrumptious crock pot chicken dish offers approximately:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Protein: 40g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Sugar: 2g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
So, whether you’re looking for a hearty meal or something to keep you on track with your dietary goals, this dish hits the mark! Enjoy every bite without the guilt!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Convenience: This crock pot recipe is a total time-saver! Just toss in the ingredients and let the pot do its magic while you focus on your day.
- Flavorful: The combination of tender chicken, zesty tomatoes, and aromatic spices creates a mouthwatering dish that everyone will rave about.
- Healthy: Packed with protein and gluten-free, this meal supports your health goals without sacrificing taste.
- Versatile: Serve it with rice, bread, or even over salad for a deliciously different twist!
Tips for Success
To make this crock pot chicken dish truly shine, here are a few tips I swear by! First, don’t skip the browning step if you have a bit of extra time. Searing the chicken in a skillet before adding it to the crock pot can enhance the flavor tremendously, giving you that golden crust. Also, feel free to experiment with veggies! Carrots and bell peppers can add a delightful sweetness and texture. Just chop them up and toss them in with the other ingredients.
Finally, remember to taste before serving! Adjusting the seasoning can make a world of difference. And if you want a little kick, a dash of red pepper flakes can elevate the dish beautifully!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving this delicious crock pot chicken, the options are endless! I love pairing it with a fluffy bed of rice, which soaks up all that flavorful broth. You could also serve it with warm, crusty bread to mop up every last drop—trust me, it’s a treat! For a lighter option, consider a fresh side salad topped with a zesty vinaigrette to balance the flavors. And don’t forget about garnishes! A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top adds a vibrant touch and a pop of flavor. Yum!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This crock pot chicken dish keeps well, making it perfect for meal prep. To store, simply let the chicken cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months! Just make sure to label the container with the date.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheating is a breeze. You can warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop. If using the stovetop, add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist while you heat it over low heat. Just be careful not to overcook it, or you might lose that tender goodness!
FAQ Section
Got questions about crock pot recipes? I’ve got answers! Here are some of the most common queries I hear:
- Q1: Can I use frozen chicken in my crock pot?
Absolutely! Just know that frozen chicken may need a bit more cooking time. I recommend adding an extra hour on low or 30 minutes on high to ensure it’s cooked through. - Q2: What’s the best way to avoid soggy chicken?
To keep your chicken tender and not soggy, make sure there’s enough broth, but not too much. You want the chicken to steam and absorb flavors without drowning in liquid. Also, avoid overcooking! - Q3: How do I adjust the recipe for larger servings?
If you’re cooking for a crowd, you can easily double this recipe! Just make sure your crock pot has enough capacity, and add a little extra time for cooking. - Q4: What other vegetables work well in this recipe?
Great question! You can add bell peppers, carrots, or even zucchini. Just chop them into similar sizes as the chicken for even cooking. - Q5: Can I leave my crock pot on while I’m at work?
Yes! That’s one of the best things about crock pot recipes. Just set it on low before you leave, and it’ll be ready when you get home!
So go ahead, get cooking, and enjoy the convenience of crock pot meals!
Print
Crock Pot Recipes: 7 Comforting Dishes for Busy Nights
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple and delicious crock pot recipe for busy days.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds of chicken
- 1 cup of diced tomatoes
- 1 cup of chicken broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of pepper
- 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Place chicken in the crock pot.
- Add diced tomatoes and chicken broth.
- Stir in chopped onion and minced garlic.
- Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
- Shred chicken and serve.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve with rice or bread.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Crock Pot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: crock pot recipes
