There’s nothing quite like coming home after a long day to the comforting aroma of a hearty meal simmering away in your kitchen. That’s exactly what you get with this chicken and vegetable crock pot recipe.
It’s the ultimate answer for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you crave something wholesome, flavorful, and fuss-free. With just a handful of fresh ingredients and minimal prep, your slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, transforming simple staples into a nourishing, one-pot dinner the whole family will love.
This recipe is also endlessly customizable—swap in your favorite veggies, adjust the seasonings, or even make it ahead for meal prep. If you’re new to slow cooking or just looking for a delicious way to eat more vegetables, this dish is a must-try.
Read on for step-by-step instructions, expert tips, and creative serving suggestions that will make this crock pot chicken and vegetable stew a staple in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons to fall in love with this chicken and vegetable crock pot recipe. Here are just a few that make it a standout:
- Effortless Preparation: Just chop, drop, and let the slow cooker work its magic. Minimal hands-on time means you can get on with your day.
- Nutritious & Balanced: Packed with lean protein, colorful vegetables, and wholesome flavors, this dish is as good for you as it tastes.
- Family-Friendly: Mild, classic flavors appeal to all ages, making it perfect for picky eaters or adventurous foodies alike.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients you probably already have in your pantry or fridge.
- Make-Ahead & Freezer Friendly: Leftovers reheat beautifully, and the stew can be frozen for future meals.
- Customizable: Adapt the vegetables and seasonings to suit your tastes or what’s in season.
If you love easy, nutritious meals, you might also enjoy our Vegan Slow Cooker Recipe for Easy, Delicious Meals or try a plant-based twist with the Veg Maharashtrian Recipes: Easy & Delicious Meals!
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need for this classic slow cooker chicken and vegetable recipe. Feel free to swap or add your favorite seasonal veggies!
Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
---|---|---|
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs | 2 pounds (about 4 pieces) | Thighs for juicier meat, breasts for leaner option |
Carrots | 3 large | Peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces |
Potatoes | 3 medium | Yukon gold or red, diced into 1-inch chunks |
Celery | 3 stalks | Sliced |
Onion | 1 large | Chopped |
Garlic | 3 cloves | Minced |
Green beans | 1 cup | Fresh or frozen, trimmed and cut in half |
Chicken broth | 3 cups | Low sodium preferred |
Diced tomatoes | 1 can (14.5 oz) | Undrained |
Dried thyme | 1 teaspoon | |
Dried rosemary | 1/2 teaspoon | Crushed |
Bay leaf | 1 | Remove before serving |
Salt | 1 teaspoon | Or to taste |
Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon | Freshly ground |
Olive oil | 1 tablespoon | Optional, for extra flavor |
Fresh parsley | 2 tablespoons | Chopped, for garnish |
If you love experimenting with veggies, check out the Recipes Dehydrated Vegetables: Easy Meals and Snacks for more inspiration!
Equipment
You don’t need much for this recipe. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Crock pot or slow cooker (5-6 quart)
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowl (optional, for tossing ingredients)
- Ladle or large spoon (for serving)
Instructions
Follow these simple steps for a perfect chicken and vegetable crock pot meal every time:
-
Prepare the vegetables:
Wash, peel, and chop the carrots, potatoes, celery, and onion as directed. Trim and halve the green beans.
Mince the garlic.
-
Layer the ingredients:
Place the chicken in the bottom of your crock pot. Add the prepared vegetables on top: carrots, potatoes, celery, onion, and green beans.
-
Add the liquids and seasonings:
Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes (with liquid). Sprinkle the thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper over everything.
Drizzle with olive oil if using.
-
Mix gently:
Use a spoon or your hands to gently combine the ingredients, spreading the seasonings evenly. Ensure the chicken is mostly submerged in the broth for even cooking.
-
Cook:
Cover with the crock pot lid. Cook on low for 7-8 hours, or on high for 3.5-4 hours.
The chicken should be cooked through and the vegetables tender.
-
Shred or chop the chicken:
When finished, remove the chicken, shred or cut into bite-sized pieces, and return to the crock pot. Stir to combine.
-
Finish and serve:
Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
Pro Tip: “For even more flavor, sear the chicken in a hot skillet with a little olive oil before adding to the crock pot. This step is optional but adds rich depth to the stew!”
Tips & Variations
Make It Your Own
- Swap the Protein: Try boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier result, or even bone-in cuts for more flavor (just remove bones before serving).
- Veggie Variations: Use what you have! Sweet potatoes, parsnips, butternut squash, bell peppers, or corn are all delicious options.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, a splash of hot sauce, or extra herbs like oregano or basil.
- Creamy Version: Stir in 1/2 cup of cream or coconut milk at the end for a rich, creamy stew.
- Grain Boost: Add 1/2 cup of uncooked brown rice or quinoa with the vegetables for a heartier meal (add extra broth if needed).
- Make it Vegan: Swap chicken for chickpeas or extra-firm tofu, and use vegetable broth. For more vegan ideas, try our Vegan Slow Cooker Recipe for Easy, Delicious Meals.
“Don’t be afraid to experiment! This recipe is forgiving and perfect for cleaning out your fridge.”
Nutrition Facts
The following nutrition information is approximate, based on a serving size of 1 1/2 cups (recipe makes about 6 servings):
Nutrient | Amount per serving |
---|---|
Calories | 285 |
Protein | 29g |
Fat | 6g |
Saturated Fat | 1g |
Carbohydrates | 27g |
Fiber | 5g |
Sugar | 6g |
Sodium | 720mg |
Vitamin A | 110% |
Vitamin C | 25% |
Nutrition will vary based on exact ingredients and swaps—always check labels for accuracy if you have dietary restrictions.
Serving Suggestions
This chicken and vegetable crock pot stew is a complete meal on its own, but here are some delicious ways to serve and complement it:
- With Crusty Bread: Serve with a hunk of fresh sourdough or a homemade slice from our Vegan Bread Maker Recipe for Soft and Delicious Loaves.
- Over Rice or Quinoa: Spoon the stew over fluffy rice, brown rice, or quinoa for extra heartiness.
- With a Side Salad: Pair with a crisp green salad or a tangy slaw to add freshness and crunch.
- In a Bread Bowl: Hollow out a round loaf and serve the stew inside for a fun, cozy presentation.
- Topped with Cheese: Sprinkle with a little shredded Parmesan or cheddar for a comforting touch.
- Make it a Soup Night: Pair with a light dessert like our Vegan Chocolate Milk Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide for a family-friendly finish!
Conclusion
If you’re searching for a comforting, healthy, and easy dinner that practically cooks itself, this chicken and vegetable crock pot recipe is guaranteed to become a staple in your home. The beauty of this dish lies not just in its simplicity, but in its flexibility—whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, it rises to the occasion every time.
With tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a savory broth that’s perfect for dipping bread, it’s a meal that soothes the soul and satisfies every appetite.
We hope you’ll make this recipe your own by experimenting with different vegetables, proteins, or seasonings. If you enjoyed this dish, don’t miss our Baked Chicken Thigh with Vegetable Recipes for Easy Dinner for another easy chicken favorite, or explore vegetarian alternatives like our Recipe Vegetarian Chopped Liver Made Easy and Delicious.
Happy slow cooking, and enjoy every nourishing bite!
📖 Recipe Card: Chicken and Vegetable Crock Pot Recipe
Description: A comforting chicken and vegetable dish made easy in the crock pot. Perfect for a wholesome family dinner with minimal prep.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT6H
Total Time: PT6H15M
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 cups baby carrots
- 3 cups diced potatoes
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cups green beans, trimmed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in the bottom of the crock pot.
- Add carrots, potatoes, onion, and green beans on top of the chicken.
- Sprinkle minced garlic, thyme, basil, salt, and pepper over the vegetables.
- Pour chicken broth evenly over all ingredients.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until chicken and vegetables are tender.
- Shred or slice chicken before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 280 kcal | Protein: 27 g | Fat: 4 g | Carbs: 35 g
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