Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken with Vegetables
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken with Vegetables is a comforting dish that's perfect for busy weeknights. Let your slow cooker do the work while you enjoy tender chicken and fresh vegetables in a rich, creamy sauce.
This creamy slow cooker chicken dish combines tender chicken breasts with seasonal vegetables for a hearty meal that cooks itself. The rich sauce is perfect for spooning over rice or mashed potatoes.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Effortless preparation with minimal cleanup
- Tender, flavorful chicken that cooks to perfection
- Versatile recipe - use any vegetables you have on hand
- Comforting creamy sauce that pairs well with rice or noodles
Convenience of Slow Cooking
One of the greatest advantages of using a slow cooker is the convenience it offers. You can prepare this Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken with Vegetables in just a few minutes. Simply season the chicken, toss in your vegetables, and let the slow cooker work its magic while you attend to other tasks. This hands-off cooking method allows you to come home to a warm, delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Additionally, slow cooking helps to develop rich flavors as the ingredients simmer together over time. The chicken absorbs the savory notes from the broth and spices, resulting in a dish that is not only tender but also packed with taste. This makes it an ideal choice for busy families and anyone looking to streamline their meal prep.
Versatility of Ingredients
This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it based on what you have in your pantry. While the basic ingredients include chicken and mixed vegetables, feel free to experiment with different vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or zucchini. This adaptability not only keeps the dish exciting but also ensures that you can use up any leftover vegetables before they go to waste.
Moreover, you can adjust the flavor profile by adding herbs and spices of your choice. Thyme, rosemary, or even a hint of paprika can elevate the dish and make it your own. The creamy sauce is a fantastic base that complements a variety of flavors, so don’t hesitate to get creative with your ingredient selections.
Perfect Pairings
When it comes to serving Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken with Vegetables, the options are plentiful. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes, allowing you to soak up every bit of that delectable sauce. For a lighter option, you can serve it over a bed of fresh greens or alongside a crisp salad, making it versatile enough for any occasion.
If you’re looking to add a bit of crunch, consider serving the dish with some warm, crusty bread. This will not only enhance your meal but also add a delightful texture contrast to the creamy chicken. No matter how you choose to serve it, this comforting dish is sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Vegetables
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, and corn)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Place them in the slow cooker.
Add Vegetables and Broth
Add the mixed vegetables on top of the chicken and pour the chicken broth over everything.
Cook in Slow Cooker
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Make the Creamy Sauce
Once cooked, remove the chicken and stir in the heavy cream until well combined. Return the chicken to the slow cooker and coat with the sauce.
Serve
Serve hot over rice or mashed potatoes, and enjoy!
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftovers from your Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep the flavors intact, ensure that the chicken and sauce are well combined before refrigerating. This dish also freezes well, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. Simply portion it into freezer-safe containers, and it can be stored for up to three months.
When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, you can reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop. If the sauce has thickened during storage, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up while reheating. This will help restore the creamy texture, making your meal just as satisfying as it was on the first day.
Nutritional Benefits
This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken with Vegetables is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. The chicken breasts provide a lean source of protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health. Adding a variety of vegetables boosts the fiber content, helping to keep you full and satisfied while contributing to your daily vegetable intake.
Moreover, the heavy cream adds richness but can be substituted with lighter alternatives if you're looking to reduce calories or fat. Options like Greek yogurt or coconut milk can provide a creamy texture while offering different nutritional profiles. This flexibility allows you to enjoy a comforting dish without compromising your dietary preferences.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just increase the cooking time by about 1 hour.
→ What vegetables work best in this recipe?
You can use any combination of vegetables such as broccoli, green beans, or bell peppers.
→ Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.
→ 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
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken with Vegetables is a comforting dish that's perfect for busy weeknights. Let your slow cooker do the work while you enjoy tender chicken and fresh vegetables in a rich, creamy sauce.
Created by: Natalie Briggs
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken and Vegetables
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, and corn)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Place them in the slow cooker.
Add the mixed vegetables on top of the chicken and pour the chicken broth over everything.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Once cooked, remove the chicken and stir in the heavy cream until well combined. Return the chicken to the slow cooker and coat with the sauce.
Serve hot over rice or mashed potatoes, and enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 25g