– **Title**: Crock Pot Chicken, Potatoes, and Green Beans
– **Ingredients**:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 pound baby potatoes, halved
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
– **Instructions**:
1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sear them in the skillet for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent.
3. In the crock pot, add halved baby potatoes and trimmed green beans. Place the seared chicken breasts on top of the vegetables.
4. Pour the sautéed onion and garlic mixture over the chicken. Add the chicken broth and sprinkle Italian seasoning over everything.
5. Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
6. Once finished, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, if desired.
This comforting dish is perfect for a hassle-free dinner with minimal prep, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully in the crock pot!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal as they stay moist while cooking in the slow cooker. If you want something different, use boneless thighs for more flavor or even turkey breast if you’re looking for a lower-fat option.
Red Potatoes: Red potatoes are great for their waxy texture, which holds up well in cooking. You can replace them with Yukon gold potatoes or even sweet potatoes for a healthier twist.
Green Beans: Fresh green beans add a nice crunch and color. Frozen green beans work too! Just add them later in the cooking process, about an hour before serving, to prevent them from getting too soft.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: This adds a great flavor punch. You can easily make a homemade version using dried herbs like dill, parsley, and garlic powder, or use Italian seasoning for a different taste.
Cream of Chicken Soup: If you’re watching dairy intake, try using a dairy-free cream of chicken soup or a homemade white sauce. This will keep the dish rich and tasty!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Stays Juicy in the Crock Pot?
Cooking chicken in a crock pot can sometimes lead to dry meat if not done right. To ensure juiciness, follow these tips:
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper to enhance its moisture.
- Place it on top of the potatoes, letting them absorb flavors while cooking.
- Using cream of chicken soup keeps it moist; make sure to pour it over the chicken.
- Cooking on low heat for 6-8 hours allows the chicken to cook slowly, retaining its juices.
Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe eating. Enjoy your meal!
How to Make Crock Pot Chicken, Potatoes, and Green Beans?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 lb red potatoes, quartered
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
For The Seasoning and Sauce:
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious crock pot meal takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then cooks for 6-8 hours on low heat. Perfect for a busy day, you can set it up in the morning and come home to a warm dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crock Pot:
Start by getting your crock pot ready. Spray the inside with non-stick cooking spray or lightly coat it with a bit of olive oil. This will help prevent anything from sticking and make cleanup easier!
2. Layer the Potatoes:
Take the quartered red potatoes and spread them evenly at the bottom of the crock pot. They will provide a nice base for the chicken and absorb all those flavors as they cook.
3. Season the Chicken:
Now it’s time for the chicken! Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides. Once seasoned, carefully place them on top of the potatoes. This will help lock in the flavors.
4. Mix the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, combine the ranch seasoning, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth. Stir until everything is well mixed. Pour this tasty mixture over the chicken and potatoes in the crock pot. It will create a creamy base that’s simply delicious!
5. Add the Green Beans:
Next, take your trimmed green beans and scatter them on top of the mixture in the crock pot. They will steam nicely and keep their bright color and flavor.
6. Drizzle with Olive Oil:
Finish off by drizzling the 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the green beans. This will add extra flavor and keep everything moist as it cooks.
7. Cook the Dish:
Cover the crock pot with the lid and set it to cook on low heat for about 6-8 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.
8. Final Check and Serve:
After cooking, give everything a taste! Check for seasoning and add any extra salt or pepper if needed. Serve warm and enjoy your hearty and flavorful meal!
Can I Substitute Different Vegetables?
Absolutely! You can switch out the green beans for other vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or even bell peppers. Just be mindful that different vegetables may have varying cook times; add those that cook quickly, like broccoli, during the last hour to keep them crisp.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just add an extra hour or two of cook time to ensure they are fully cooked. However, it’s best to thaw the chicken first to ensure even cooking. To thaw quickly, place the sealed chicken in a bowl of cold water for about an hour.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the dish for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing and remember to label the container for easy identification!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prep everything the night before. Assemble the potatoes and chicken in the crock pot, cover it, and store it in the fridge. In the morning, just add the soup mixture and fresh green beans, and start the slow cooker!
