Savory Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken & Veggies

If you crave a simple, tasty dinner, you’ll love my Savory Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken & Veggies! This easy recipe combines juicy chicken, fresh veggies, and a rich garlic butter sauce. With just a few steps, you’ll create a meal that’s not only satisfying but also perfect for busy weeknights. Read on to discover how to prepare this delightful dish and master the art of slow cooking!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

– 1 cup baby carrots

– 1 cup baby potatoes, halved

– 1 red bell pepper, chopped

– 1 cup green beans, trimmed

– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

– 6 cloves garlic, minced

– 2 teaspoons dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

This recipe starts with simple and fresh ingredients. The chicken breasts serve as a lean protein. Baby carrots and potatoes add sweetness and heartiness. The red bell pepper brings color and crunch. Green beans add a fresh flavor and texture.

For the sauce, I use unsalted butter. This lets you control the saltiness. Garlic gives a rich taste, while dried Italian herbs add depth. Salt and pepper enhance flavors and balance the dish. Finally, fresh parsley adds a bright touch when serving.

Gather these ingredients, and you’re ready for a delightful meal. Each one plays a role in making this dish savory and satisfying.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

– Mixing the garlic butter sauce

Start by melting the butter in a bowl. Add the minced garlic, dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Whisk until it blends well. This sauce gives your dish its rich, tasty flavor.

– Layering the ingredients in the slow cooker

Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker first. Sprinkle them lightly with salt and pepper. Next, arrange the baby carrots, halved potatoes, chopped red bell pepper, and trimmed green beans around the chicken. This layering helps everything cook evenly.

– Cooking times and settings

Pour the garlic butter sauce over the chicken and veggies. Make sure everything is well coated. Cover the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be cooked through, and the veggies should be tender.

Finishing Touches

– How to serve and garnish

When the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken and veggies. Transfer them to a serving platter. Spoon some of the juices from the slow cooker over the top. This adds extra flavor.

– Tips for maximizing flavor

For the best taste, use fresh garlic and herbs. Chopping fresh parsley and sprinkling it on top adds color and freshness. You can also serve this dish with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Tips

To get tender chicken and veggies, start with fresh ingredients. Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They cook evenly and stay juicy. Cut your veggies into similar sizes. This helps them cook at the same rate. For best results, season your chicken and veggies well. A simple mix of salt and pepper works wonders. Don’t skip the garlic butter sauce. It adds a rich flavor that everyone loves.

Slow Cooking Techniques

Using the right slow cooker settings is key. I suggest cooking on low for 6-7 hours. This allows the flavors to meld perfectly. If you’re in a hurry, you can cook on high for 3-4 hours. Just make sure to keep an eye on the time. For meal prep, chop your veggies ahead of time. Store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. This makes the process easy and quick. You can also prepare the garlic butter mix in advance. Just whisk it together and refrigerate.

Variations

Ingredient Substitutions

You can easily switch up the veggies for this dish. Here are some ideas:

– Zucchini: Cut into slices or cubes.

– Mushrooms: Sliced for a tasty addition.

– Broccoli: Add florets for color and crunch.

– Cauliflower: Substitute for a low-carb option.

For the meat, you can try different proteins:

– Turkey breasts: Lean and juicy alternative.

– Pork chops: Adds a savory twist.

– Tofu: For a plant-based option, use firm tofu.

Flavor Tweaks

You can boost the flavor with spices and herbs. Here are some options:

– Paprika: Adds a sweet and smoky taste.

– Cumin: Offers a warm, earthy flavor.

– Rosemary or thyme: Fresh herbs brighten the dish.

Feel free to experiment with sauces too. Add a splash of:

– Soy sauce: For a salty kick.

– Balsamic vinegar: Adds sweetness and depth.

– Hot sauce: For those who like heat.

These variations keep your slow cooker garlic butter chicken exciting and new!

Storage Info

Proper Storage Methods

To keep your slow cooker garlic butter chicken and veggies fresh, follow these tips.

– Refrigeration tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container. Let the food cool down first. Place it in the fridge within two hours. It will last for about three to four days. Always label the container with the date.

– Freezing cooked chicken and veggies: You can freeze this dish too. Use freezer-safe bags or containers. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. This will prevent freezer burn. It can last up to three months in the freezer. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating Instructions

Reheating your delicious meal is easy. Here are the best methods to keep the flavors intact.

– Microwave method: Place your chicken and veggies in a microwave-safe dish. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Cover the dish with a lid or plastic wrap. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

– Oven method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken and veggies in an oven-safe dish. Cover with foil to retain moisture. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warm.

Both methods ensure you enjoy the same great taste.

FAQs

Common Questions

Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?

Yes, you can. Use an oven instead. Preheat it to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken and veggies in a baking dish. Pour the garlic butter sauce over everything. Cover with foil and bake for about 30-40 minutes. Check if the chicken is done before serving.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have one, cut into the thickest part. The meat should be white and juices clear. No pink should be visible.

What side dishes pair well with this recipe?

This dish is great with rice or quinoa. You can also serve it with a fresh salad. Garlic bread complements the meal nicely. Try some steamed broccoli or a veggie medley for more color.

Troubleshooting

What to do if the chicken is dry?

If the chicken turns out dry, it may have cooked too long. To fix it, try adding some broth or sauce when serving. You can also shred the chicken and mix it into a creamy sauce for added moisture.

How to prevent overcooked vegetables?

To keep the veggies crisp, add them later in the cooking time. If cooking on low, add them in the last 2 hours. For high heat, add them in the last hour. This keeps them tender and bright.

In this blog post, I shared a simple slow-cooker recipe for chicken and veggies. We explored key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for the best results. I also discussed fun variations and how to store and reheat leftovers.

With this knowledge, you can make a tasty meal with ease. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and ingredients. Cooking should be fun, so let your creativity shin