This Slow Cooker Chicken and Veggies dish is the perfect way to get a tasty meal with minimal fuss. Just toss in your chicken, colorful veggies, and your favorite seasonings!
The best part? It fills your home with delicious smells while it cooks. I often think the slow cooker is like a magic chef, making dinner while I relax! 😊
I love serving this with rice or crusty bread to soak up the juices. It’s always a hit with family and friends, plus it’s super easy to clean up. A win-win!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Boneless Chicken Breasts: These are lean and cook perfectly in the slow cooker. If you’re looking for a change, try using thighs for a juicier result or even turkey breast. They work well too!
Broccoli: Fresh or frozen broccoli florets both work great. If you’re looking to mix it up, consider green beans or snap peas for a crunchy twist.
Bell Pepper: Both red and green bell peppers add sweetness. For a different flavor, you could use poblano or even some sweet mini peppers.
Onion: A medium onion is classic here, but shallots make a nice substitute for a sweeter taste. You can also use onion powder if you’re in a pinch.
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth keeps the dish flavorful without being too salty. Vegetable broth is a great alternative for a vegetarian option.
Italian Seasoning: If you don’t have this blend, mix dried basil, oregano, and thyme for a similar flavor. Fresh herbs like rosemary or sage can also add a lovely touch.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken and Veggies Cook Perfectly in the Slow Cooker?
Cooking in the slow cooker is easy, but a few tips ensure everything turns out just right. First, layer your veggies at the bottom, as they need a longer cooking time than the chicken. Next, season the chicken well before adding it on top. This allows the flavors to infuse during cooking.
- Cook on low for the best tenderness, but if you’re in a hurry, high heat can work too—3-4 hours usually does the trick.
- Remember to avoid lifting the lid during cooking, as it lets heat escape and extends cooking time.
- Finally, shredding the chicken at the end helps it absorb more of the broth flavor while mixing everything together.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken and Veggies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups cooked rice (for serving)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious slow cooker chicken and veggies dish takes about 15 minutes of prep time and then cooks for either 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. So, you can set it up in the morning and come home to a warm, comforting meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Chicken:
In a large bowl, combine the bite-sized chicken pieces with olive oil, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the chicken is evenly coated with the spices. This adds so much flavor!
2. Layering the Veggies:
Take your slow cooker and layer the chopped onion, sliced bell pepper, broccoli florets, and carrot slices at the bottom. This creates a delicious base for your chicken that will soak up all the juices as it cooks.
3. Adding the Chicken:
Now, place the seasoned chicken on top of the veggies in the slow cooker. Make sure it’s spread out evenly so that it cooks well.
4. Pouring the Broth:
Pour the low-sodium chicken broth evenly over everything in the slow cooker. This will keep the chicken moist and the veggies tender while they cook together.
5. Cooking Time:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender and delightful.
6. Final Touches:
When cooking is done, use two forks to gently shred the chicken in the pot. This makes it easier to mix everything together. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
7. Serving Up:
Serve your tasty chicken and veggies over cooked rice. Don’t forget to garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your wholesome meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking. To thaw, place the chicken in the fridge overnight or use the quick method by submerging it in cold water in a sealed bag for about an hour. Just make sure it’s cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking!
What Vegetables Can I Substitute?
Feel free to mix and match vegetables based on what you have! Zucchini, green beans, or cauliflower all work well. Just ensure that the cooking times are similar so that everything is tender by the end of cooking. Avoid watery vegetables like cucumbers, as they might make the dish too soupy.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw in the fridge before reheating!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prep everything the night before and refrigerate the slow cooker insert. Just pop it into the slow cooker in the morning and set it to cook for your chosen time. This makes for an easy, stress-free dinner!
