Slow cookers are an amazing way to prepare meals that are both easy and delicious. Chicken is a popular protein source, and it’s easy to see why. It’s versatile and can be cooked in countless ways. Here are 5 delicious slow cooker chicken recipes that you should try this week.
1. Slow Cooker Chicken and Mushroom Stew
This stew is the perfect comfort food for chilly nights. It’s loaded with healthy ingredients such as chicken, mushrooms, carrots, onions, and potatoes. The chicken and vegetables are simmered together in a savory broth until tender and delicious.
Health Benefits:
Mushrooms are a great source of vitamins B and D, which help keep bones strong and healthy. Chicken is a lean protein source that’s low in saturated fat. This recipe is also packed with fiber, which helps keep you feeling full and satisfied.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups sliced mushrooms
– 2 cups chopped carrots
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cups diced potatoes
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients to a slow cooker and stir to combine
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until chicken and vegetables are tender
3. Serve hot and enjoy
2. Slow Cooker Chicken and Sweet Potato Curry
Curry is a flavorful way to add some spice and variety to your meals. This recipe features tender chicken and sweet potatoes simmered in a creamy coconut curry sauce. It’s perfect for meal prepping or a cozy weeknight dinner.
Health Benefits:
Sweet potatoes are loaded with vitamins A and C, which are great for your skin and immune system. Coconut milk is rich in healthy fats and has anti-inflammatory properties. Chicken is a great source of protein that keeps you full and satisfied.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks
– 2 sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– ½ teaspoon cumin
– ½ teaspoon coriander
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients to a slow cooker and stir to combine
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until chicken and sweet potatoes are tender
3. Serve hot over rice and enjoy
3. Slow Cooker Chicken and Salsa Verde Tacos
Tacos are always a crowd-pleaser, and this recipe is no exception. The chicken is cooked in a flavorful salsa verde sauce until fall-apart tender. Serve it with your favorite toppings to make a delicious and easy weeknight meal.
Health Benefits:
Tomatillos, the main ingredient in salsa verde, are rich in antioxidants and vitamins C and K. Chicken is a great source of protein and iron, which helps your body produce energy.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 jar (16 oz) salsa verde
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– ½ teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Flour or corn tortillas
– Favorite taco toppings (shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, avocado, etc.)
Instructions:
1. Add chicken, salsa verde, and spices to the slow cooker and stir to combine
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until chicken is fall-apart tender
3. Shred the chicken with two forks and stir to combine with the sauce
4. Serve hot in tortillas with your favorite toppings
4. Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken
This chicken recipe is bursting with flavor from the lemon and garlic. It’s easy to prepare and cooks up tender and juicy in the slow cooker. Pair it with roasted vegetables or a salad for a complete meal.
Health Benefits:
Lemons are packed with vitamin C, which helps boost your immune system. Garlic has been shown to have antibacterial and antimicrobial properties that can promote cardiovascular health.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lemon, zested and juiced
– ½ teaspoon dried oregano
– ½ teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Mix garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl
2. Rub the seasoning mixture onto the chicken and place it in the slow cooker
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until chicken is cooked through and tender
4. Serve hot and enjoy
5. Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice Soup
This soup is hearty and comforting, making it perfect for cold winter days. It’s packed with vegetables, chicken, and rice. The slow cooker does all the work, so all you have to do is enjoy a warm bowl of soup.
Health Benefits:
Vegetables are rich in vitamins and minerals, and this soup is loaded with them. Chicken is a great source of protein and amino acids, which help promote muscle growth and repair.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup chopped carrots
– 1 cup chopped celery
– 1 cup chopped onions
– 1 cup uncooked rice
– 6 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add chicken, vegetables, rice, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until chicken is cooked and rice is tender
3. Shred chicken with two forks and stir to combine
4. Serve hot and enjoy
FAQs:
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts in any of these recipes. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if necessary. Chicken thighs take a bit longer to cook than chicken breasts.
2. Can I freeze slow cooker meals?
Yes, you can freeze slow cooker meals. Simply let the dish cool down and transfer to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
3. Can I double the recipes?
Yes, you can double any of these slow cooker chicken recipes if you have a larger slow cooker. Be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, and leave enough room in the slow cooker to allow for proper cooking and circulation of air.
4. Can I add other vegetables to these recipes?
Yes, you can add your favorite vegetables to any of these recipes. Just be sure to chop them into small, even pieces to ensure they cook evenly.
5. Can I use canned vegetables instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned vegetables instead of fresh in any of these recipes. Just be sure to drain and rinse them before use.
In conclusion, these 5 delicious slow cooker chicken recipes are perfect for any day of the week. They are easy to prepare, healthy, and packed with flavor. Give them a try and you won’t be disappointed!
