This Slow Cooker Chicken and Vegetables recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a comforting meal ready when you get home. By combining boneless chicken with hearty vegetables and aromatic seasonings, you can enjoy a satisfying dinner without the hassle. The slow cooking method ensures that the chicken becomes incredibly tender, and the vegetables absorb all the flavors of the dish, making it a true crowd-pleaser.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe works because the slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop gradually. The chicken becomes incredibly moist and flavorful, while the vegetables—like potatoes, carrots, and onions—cook to the perfect tenderness. The seasoning blend, which includes garlic, thyme, and rosemary, infuses everything with a savory aroma. Plus, it’s an easy, set-it-and-forget-it kind of dish that makes meal prep simple.
What You’ll Need for This Recipe
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts (thighs tend to stay juicier)
6 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
4 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
1 large onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for a creamy finish)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for a little smokiness)
Chopped parsley (for garnish)
How to Make This Recipe
Prepare the Ingredients:
Start by peeling and chopping the potatoes and carrots into bite-sized chunks. Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
If you’re using chicken breasts, cut them into halves or thirds to ensure they cook evenly and absorb all the flavors.
Layer the Slow Cooker:
Add the chopped potatoes, carrots, and onions to the bottom of the slow cooker. These vegetables will act as a bed for the chicken and will absorb all the flavors from the broth and seasonings.
Season the Chicken:
Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, paprika (if using), dried thyme, and rosemary. Rub the seasoning in well to ensure all sides of the chicken are coated.
Add the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken pieces on top of the vegetables in the slow cooker.
Add the Garlic and Liquid:
Sprinkle the minced garlic over the chicken and vegetables.
Pour the chicken broth over the ingredients in the slow cooker. The liquid helps the chicken cook and ensures the vegetables stay moist.
Slow Cook:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, depending on your time. The chicken should be fully cooked and tender, and the vegetables should be fork-tender.
Optional Creamy Finish:
About 30 minutes before serving, you can stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream for a richer, creamier texture. This step is optional but adds a wonderful richness to the dish.
Shred the Chicken (Optional):
If you like, you can shred the chicken after cooking by using two forks to pull it apart. This creates a pulled chicken effect that’s perfect for serving over the vegetables. Alternatively, you can serve the chicken whole.
Serve and Garnish:
Serve the chicken and vegetables hot. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of freshness and color.
Tips + Tricks & More for Recipe Success
Cut the vegetables evenly: Make sure to chop the potatoes, carrots, and onion into similar-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly.
Use chicken thighs for more flavor: While chicken breasts can work, thighs are more forgiving in the slow cooker and stay juicy and tender.
Add more veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables, like peas, green beans, or corn, towards the end of the cooking time if you want to expand the dish.
Use fresh herbs: If you have fresh rosemary and thyme, feel free to use them instead of dried. Use about 2 tablespoons of fresh rosemary and thyme each for the best flavor.
For a crispy finish: If you prefer a crispy texture on your chicken, you can place the chicken under a broiler for a few minutes after it’s done in the slow cooker. This step will crisp up the skin if you’re using chicken with skin or give the chicken a roasted texture.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread to soak up all the flavorful broth.
If you prefer, you can serve it with rice or mashed potatoes for a more filling meal.
A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can help balance the richness of the chicken and vegetables.
Timing
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time (low setting): 6-8 hours
Cooking time (high setting): 3-4 hours
Total time: 7-8 hours (if using the low setting)
This Slow Cooker Chicken and Vegetables recipe is an easy, no-fuss way to make a delicious and filling dinner. It requires minimal prep time and lets the slow cooker do all the work for you. Whether you’re feeding your family or prepping for the week, this dish is sure to be a hit at the dinner table!