Healthy Chicken Crockpot Meal
Are you searching for a dinner solution that's both incredibly easy and deliciously healthy? Look no further! This healthy chicken crockpot meal is a game-changer for busy weeknights. Toss everything in the slow cooker in the morning, and come home to a flavorful, tender, and satisfying meal. It’s a family-friendly favorite that even picky eaters will love. Say goodbye to mealtime stress and hello to a nutritious dinner with minimal effort!
Equipment
- Crockpot
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or chicken thighs)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 15 oz can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 cup chopped potatoes (Yukon gold or red potatoes, optional) Optional
Instructions
- Prep the Vegetables: Chop the onion, carrots, and celery. Mince the garlic. If using potatoes, chop them into bite-sized pieces.
- Layer the Ingredients: Place the chopped vegetables in the bottom of your crockpot. This creates a flavorful base for the chicken.
- Add Chicken and Seasonings: Place the chicken breasts (or chicken thighs) on top of the vegetables. Pour the diced tomatoes and chicken broth over the chicken. Sprinkle with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Cook on Low: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. Cooking time may vary depending on your slow cooker.
- Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork, remove it from the crockpot and shred it using two forks.
- Combine and Serve: Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir to combine with the vegetables and sauce.
- Enjoy! Serve hot and enjoy your healthy chicken crockpot meal!
Notes
Pro Tips & Variations:
- Don't Overcook: Overcooked chicken can become dry. Check the chicken after 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high and adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Add Greens: Stir in fresh spinach or kale during the last 30 minutes of cooking for an extra boost of nutrients.
- Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeno for a spicy version of this chicken crockpot dish.
- Vegan Variation: Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or lentils for a delicious vegetarian crockpot recipe.
- Allow the healthy chicken crockpot meal to cool completely before storing.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- For longer storage, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months.
- Refrigerator: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
- Freezer: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. For quickest results, use the microwave or stovetop, adding a little water or broth if needed to prevent drying.