Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Chicken And Veggies Recipe

Tender chicken and fresh vegetables simmered in a rich, creamy garlic sauce make the Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Chicken And Veggies Recipe a perfect choice for busy weeknights or special gatherings. This dish offers a delightful combination of flavors that will impress family and friends alike. Plus, its effortless preparation in a slow cooker allows you to enjoy a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Just set it and forget it! The slow cooker takes care of everything while you go about your day.
• Rich Flavor: The creamy garlic sauce elevates simple ingredients into a comforting dish everyone will love.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep for the week.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and colorful veggies, this recipe balances flavor and nutrition.
• Easy Cleanup: With minimal pots and pans used, clean-up is quick and easy.

Tools and Preparation

To make this recipe a breeze, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment can greatly enhance your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Cast Iron Skillet
• Mixing Bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: Allows for low-and-slow cooking, ensuring tender meat and deeply infused flavors.
• Cast Iron Skillet: Perfect for searing meat to lock in juices before slow cooking.
• Mixing Bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients smoothly when preparing sauces or marinades.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a lump-free consistency when mixing liquids like cream or broth.

Ingredients

For the Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Chicken And Veggies Recipe, gather the following ingredients:

For the Chicken

• 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 ½ teaspoons smoked paprika
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Vegetables

• 2 pounds baby red potatoes, halved
• 2 shallots, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups broccoli florets

For the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ¼ cup white apple vinegar
• ¼ cup chicken stock
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 ½ tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

How to Make Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Chicken And Veggies Recipe

Step 1: Season the Chicken

First things first, let’s give those chicken thighs a bit of love. Sprinkle them generously with smoked paprika, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. You’ll want to ensure every nook and cranny is well-seasoned for maximum flavor—trust me, this step makes all the difference!

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat up a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and melt the unsalted butter. Once it’s nice and bubbly:
* Add the chicken thighs skin-side down.
* Sear them until both sides are beautifully golden brown—this should take about 2 to 3 minutes per side.
* After they’re browned to perfection, drain any excess fat and set the chicken aside. This step locks in flavor!

Step 3: Prepare the Slow Cooker Base

Toss the halved baby red potatoes into your trusty slow cooker:
* Add white apple vinegar, chicken stock, chopped shallots, minced garlic, and dried thyme.
* Give it a good stir to mix everything together nicely.
* Season with more salt and pepper—to taste.

Step 4: Arrange the Chicken

Place the seared chicken thighs evenly over the potato mixture in the slow cooker:
* Ensure they’re snug but not overcrowded so everything cooks evenly.
This setup allows juices from the chicken to seep into potatoes.

Step 5: Slow Cook

Cover your slow cooker and set it to low heat:
* Let it cook for about 5 to 6 hours until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
During this time, enjoy that enticing aroma filling your kitchen!

Step 6: Add the Broccoli

About 30 minutes before cooking time is up:
* Add broccoli florets to ensure they stay bright green and tender-crisp.

Step 7: Remove and Keep Warm

Carefully remove chicken, potatoes, and broccoli from slow cooker:
* Cover them to keep warm while you prepare the sauce.

Step 8: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl:
* Whisk together heavy cream, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and cornstarch until smooth.
Pour this creamy mixture into your slow cooker:
* Stir well, cover again, and cook on high heat for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until thickened.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

It’s time to dig in! Plate up those tender chicken thighs with potatoes and broccoli:
Drizzle generously with that luscious cream sauce. Enjoy every bite of this comforting meal!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Chicken And Veggies Recipe

Serving Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Chicken And Veggies is all about enhancing its comforting flavors while ensuring a delightful dining experience. Here are some creative suggestions to accompany this dish.

Pair with Rice

• White Rice: A simple, fluffy side that absorbs the creamy garlic sauce beautifully.
• Brown Rice: Offers a nutty flavor and adds a healthy touch to your meal.

Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: Crisp greens topped with tomatoes and cucumbers provide a refreshing contrast.
• Caesar Salad: The rich dressing complements the creamy chicken well, adding depth to your plate.

Crusty Bread

• French Baguette: Perfect for dipping into the luscious garlic sauce, this bread adds a rustic touch.
• Garlic Bread: A flavorful addition that enhances the overall garlic experience of the meal.

Steamed Vegetables

• Green Beans: Lightly steamed for crunch and color, they balance out the richness of the dish.
• Asparagus: This elegant vegetable pairs wonderfully with chicken and adds a gourmet feel.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Chicken And Veggies Recipe

To achieve the best results with your Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Chicken And Veggies, consider these handy tips that will elevate your cooking game.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and seasonal veggies boost flavor significantly compared to dried or frozen alternatives.
• Sear the Chicken Well: Properly browning the chicken creates an irresistible crust and enhances the overall taste.
• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it cook longer after adding the cream mixture; if thinner, add more chicken stock.
• Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to add fresh herbs like parsley or basil for additional flavor layers.
• Add More Veggies: Incorporate other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for extra nutrition and variety.
• Low and Slow Cooking: Always stick to low heat for maximum tenderness; this allows flavors to meld beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Chicken And Veggies Recipe

Enjoying your Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Chicken And Veggies can be even better with some delicious side dishes. Here are some top picks to complement your meal:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting pairing.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light salad featuring quinoa, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette adds freshness.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized sprouts bring earthiness and crunch alongside the creamy chicken.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn is always a hit; grill or steam it for added sweetness.
5. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy fries offer a sweet contrast that balances well with savory flavors.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity, complementing the richness of the chicken dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Chicken And Veggies Recipe, it’s easy to trip up. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the Searing Step: Searing the chicken enhances flavor and texture. Don’t skip this; it locks in juices and adds a delicious crust.
• Overcrowding the Slow Cooker: If the cooker is too full, your chicken and veggies may not cook evenly. Make sure there’s enough space for heat circulation.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Each slow cooker varies in temperature. Always check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it reaches 165°F.
• Adding Broccoli Too Early: Adding broccoli too soon can lead to mushy florets. Wait until the last 30 minutes of cooking for perfect texture.
• Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments: Tastes vary, so adjust salt and pepper levels during preparation. Taste as you go for a balanced flavor profile.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best freshness.

Freezing Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Chicken And Veggies Recipe

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, and consume within 2-3 months.

Reheating Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Chicken And Veggies Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cooking time for the Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Chicken And Veggies Recipe?

The cooking time is approximately 5 to 6 hours on low heat. Always check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Can I customize the vegetables in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add or substitute your favorite veggies like carrots or green beans based on your preferences.

How can I make this recipe healthier?

Consider using skinless chicken thighs or reducing the amount of heavy cream for a lighter version while still keeping it delicious.

What should I serve with Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Chicken And Veggies?

This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or even a fresh side salad to balance flavors.

Final Thoughts

The Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Chicken And Veggies Recipe is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it with different vegetables or seasonings. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a hearty meal without much fuss. Try it out and enjoy every flavorful bite!