Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken with Vegetables
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken with Vegetables is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with a medley of fresh vegetables, all simmered to perfection in a rich, creamy sauce.
This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken with Vegetables is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. The slow cooking process creates tender chicken, while the vegetables add freshness and flavor.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy sauce that coats the chicken beautifully.
- A variety of colorful vegetables for a nutritious boost.
- Set it and forget it – perfect for busy schedules.
The Perfect Weeknight Meal
When life gets busy, finding time to prepare a wholesome meal can be a challenge. This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken with Vegetables is the ideal solution, allowing you to enjoy a delicious, home-cooked dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. Just set your slow cooker in the morning, and when you return home, a comforting meal awaits you.
Slow cooking not only makes the chicken incredibly tender but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. With the hands-off cooking method, you can focus on other tasks or simply unwind after a long day, knowing that a hearty meal is being prepared to perfection.
Nutritional Benefits
This dish is not just about comfort; it’s also packed with essential nutrients. The mixed vegetables, including carrots, peas, and bell peppers, contribute vitamins and minerals that are vital for your health. Incorporating a variety of colorful vegetables ensures that you're getting a range of antioxidants and nutrients, making this dish both delicious and nutritious.
Chicken is a fantastic source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall body function. Combined with the richness of the cream and the wholesome veggies, this recipe strikes a perfect balance between indulgence and health.
Customization Options
One of the best features of this slow cooker recipe is its versatility. Feel free to swap out the mixed vegetables for your favorites or whatever you have on hand. Broccoli, zucchini, or even green beans can be excellent additions. You can also experiment with different seasonings or even add a splash of white wine for an extra layer of flavor.
If you're looking to lighten the dish, consider using low-fat cream or a dairy-free alternative, which can still yield a creamy consistency without the extra calories. This recipe can effortlessly adapt to various dietary needs while still delivering on taste.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients for a delicious meal:
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Make sure to have everything ready before starting the cooking process.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your delicious meal:
Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker.
Add Vegetables
Add the mixed vegetables on top of the chicken.
Mix the Sauce
In a bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
Combine in Slow Cooker
Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker.
Cook
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Finish with Cream
Stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 15 minutes.
Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot over rice or noodles.
Enjoy your creamy slow cooker chicken with a side of your choice!
Serving Suggestions
This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a classic touch, serve it over fluffy white rice or egg noodles to soak up the rich sauce. Alternatively, you could opt for a healthier route with quinoa or brown rice for added fiber and nutrients.
For a complete meal, consider adding a side salad or steamed vegetables. A fresh garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette can brighten up the plate and complement the creamy chicken perfectly.
Storage and Reheating
Leftovers from this dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors continue to develop as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day. Just be sure to cool the chicken and vegetables before storing them to maintain quality.
When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop. If the sauce has thickened too much, simply add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up. This ensures that your meal remains creamy and flavorful.
Tips for Perfect Results
To achieve the best results, make sure not to overcrowd the slow cooker. The chicken should be in a single layer for even cooking. If you're doubling the recipe, consider using a larger slow cooker or cooking in batches to maintain the integrity of the dish.
For added depth of flavor, searing the chicken breasts before placing them in the slow cooker can enhance the overall taste. This step is optional but can add a lovely caramelization to the chicken that enriches the sauce.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but cooking time may need to be increased.
→ What vegetables work best?
You can use any vegetables you prefer, such as broccoli, green beans, or corn.
→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients the night before and store them in the refrigerator.
→ Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute the cream of chicken soup and heavy cream with dairy-free alternatives.
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken with Vegetables
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken with Vegetables is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with a medley of fresh vegetables, all simmered to perfection in a rich, creamy sauce.
Created by: Natalie Briggs
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker.
Add the mixed vegetables on top of the chicken.
In a bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 15 minutes.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot over rice or noodles.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 30g