Slow cooker recipes are a lifesaver for anyone who loves delicious, home-cooked meals but has limited time during busy weekdays. Among the many options, chicken and vegetable slow cooker recipes stand out as a perfect blend of nutrition, flavor, and convenience.
Imagine tender, juicy chicken infused with the essence of fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs, all cooked slowly to perfection with minimal effort. Whether you’re new to slow cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is ideal for family dinners, meal prep, or simply winding down with a wholesome meal waiting for you at the end of the day.
This blog post will guide you through a straightforward, flavorful chicken and vegetable slow cooker recipe, highlight why it’s a must-try, and provide useful tips, nutrition facts, and serving ideas. Let’s dive into making your next slow cooker meal both easy and unforgettable.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Convenience: Slow cookers do all the hard work, allowing you to prep in minutes and come back to a fully cooked, delicious meal. No need to hover over the stove or constantly check on your food.
Healthy and Balanced: This recipe combines lean chicken breast with a colorful variety of fresh vegetables, creating a nutritious and satisfying dish packed with protein, vitamins, and fiber.
Versatility: You can easily customize this recipe based on your favorite vegetables, preferred seasonings, or dietary needs. It’s perfect for experimenting and making the dish your own.
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
---|---|---|
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 4 pieces (about 1.5 lbs) | Can substitute with thighs for more flavor |
Carrots | 3 medium, peeled and sliced | Fresh or frozen |
Potatoes | 3 medium, diced | Yukon Gold or red potatoes preferred |
Green beans | 1 cup, trimmed | Fresh or frozen |
Bell peppers | 2 medium, sliced | Any color for sweetness |
Onion | 1 large, diced | Yellow or white |
Garlic cloves | 3, minced | Fresh for best flavor |
Low-sodium chicken broth | 1 ½ cups | For moist cooking |
Olive oil | 2 tablespoons | Extra virgin recommended |
Dried thyme | 1 teaspoon | Or fresh if available |
Dried rosemary | 1 teaspoon | Crushed or whole |
Salt | 1 teaspoon | Adjust to taste |
Black pepper | ½ teaspoon | Freshly ground preferred |
Fresh parsley | ¼ cup, chopped | For garnish |
Equipment
- Slow cooker (4 to 6 quart size)
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Serving plates and utensils
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: Wash, peel, and chop the carrots, potatoes, bell peppers, and onion into bite-sized pieces. Trim the green beans and mince the garlic cloves.
- Sear the chicken (optional but recommended): Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly brown the chicken breasts on each side for 2-3 minutes. This step adds extra flavor and seals in juices. Transfer seared chicken to the slow cooker.
- Add the vegetables: Layer the carrots, potatoes, green beans, bell peppers, onion, and garlic evenly around and on top of the chicken in the slow cooker.
- Season: Sprinkle the dried thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper over the chicken and vegetables. Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over everything.
- Pour the broth: Carefully add the chicken broth to the slow cooker. It should cover the vegetables partially, creating steam and moisture for cooking.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be cooked through and vegetables tender.
- Check and adjust seasoning: About 30 minutes before serving, taste the broth and adjust salt and pepper if needed.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips & Variations
Tip: If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow excess liquid to evaporate.
For a more Mediterranean twist, add a splash of lemon juice and some kalamata olives just before serving. If you prefer spicier food, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños with the seasonings.
You can swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand or the season. Try adding zucchini, mushrooms, or sweet potatoes for different textures and flavors.
For an extra boost of protein, toss in a can of drained chickpeas or white beans during the last hour of cooking.
Don’t hesitate to explore vegetarian slow cooker meals too! For plant-based inspiration, check out the Vegan Slow Cooker Recipe for Easy, Delicious Meals or the Veg Maharashtrian Recipes: Easy & Delicious Meals.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 320 kcal |
Protein | 38 g |
Carbohydrates | 20 g |
Dietary Fiber | 5 g |
Fat | 6 g |
Saturated Fat | 1 g |
Sodium | 450 mg |
Vitamin A | 120% DV |
Vitamin C | 60% DV |
Iron | 10% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This hearty chicken and vegetable slow cooker dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serve it over fluffy steamed rice, quinoa, or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the flavorful juices.
For a lighter option, enjoy it alongside a fresh green salad or crusty whole-grain bread.
For a fun twist, you can shred the cooked chicken and use it as a filling for wraps or tacos. If you like exploring other recipes that complement this meal, consider trying the Vegan Flour Tortilla Recipe Easy, Soft, and Homemade or the Shrimp and Veggie Pasta Recipe for a Quick Healthy Meal to round out your dinner options.
Conclusion
Slow cooker chicken and vegetable recipes are a fantastic way to bring wholesome, flavorful meals to your table with minimal effort. This recipe offers a perfect balance of lean protein, nutrient-rich vegetables, and comforting herbs that meld beautifully during slow cooking.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is flexible, nutritious, and delicious.
By utilizing your slow cooker, you can save time without sacrificing quality or taste. Plus, the variations and tips shared here allow you to tailor the meal to your preferences and pantry staples.
Don’t forget to explore other slow cooker and plant-based recipes on our site to keep your cooking exciting and diverse!
📖 Recipe Card: Chicken and Vegetable Slow Cooker
Description: A hearty and healthy slow cooker recipe combining tender chicken with fresh vegetables. Perfect for an easy, flavorful weeknight meal.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT6H
Total Time: PT6H15M
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups baby potatoes, halved
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- Add carrots, celery, onion, garlic, potatoes, and green beans on top.
- Pour chicken broth over the ingredients.
- Sprinkle thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper evenly.
- Drizzle olive oil over the mixture.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours.
- Check seasoning and serve warm.
Nutrition: Calories: 320 kcal | Protein: 35 g | Fat: 10 g | Carbs: 18 g
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