Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Chicken And Veggies Recipe

Tender chicken and fresh vegetables come together in this Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Chicken And Veggies Recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish highlights the rich flavors of garlic and cream while ensuring that your meal preparation is as effortless as possible. With just a few simple steps, you can create a comforting meal that’s sure to impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Just set it and forget it! The slow cooker does all the work for you.
• Rich Flavor: The creamy garlic sauce infuses every bite with deliciousness.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite vegetables or spices.
• Family-Friendly: A comforting dish that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
• Healthy Options: Packed with lean protein and fresh veggies for a nutritious meal.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking much easier. Here are the essentials you’ll need to prepare this recipe:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Cast iron skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-free cooking, blending flavors over several hours to create a tender meal.
• Cast iron skillet: Great for searing meat, helping to lock in moisture and flavor before slow cooking.

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
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

For the Vegetables

• 2 pounds baby red potatoes, halved
• ¼ cup white apple vinegar
• ¼ cup chicken stock
• 2 shallots, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 3 cups broccoli florets

For the Cream Sauce

• 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 the flavor and gives your chicken that irresistible crispy skin.

Step 3: Prepare the Slow Cooker Base

Toss the halved baby red potatoes into your trusty 6-quart slow cooker. To this, add the white apple vinegar, chicken stock, chopped shallots, minced garlic, and dried thyme. Give it a good stir to mix everything together nicely. Season with a touch more salt and pepper—you know, just to taste. This is the flavor base that will infuse into everything else.

Step 4: Arrange the Chicken

Place the seared chicken thighs evenly over the potato mixture in the slow cooker. Make sure they’re snug but not overcrowded so everything cooks evenly. This setup will let the juices from the chicken seep into the potatoes and spices, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

Step 5: Slow Cook

Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Let it do its magic for about 5 to 6 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. During this time, the aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist sneaking a peek!

Step 6: Add the Broccoli

About 30 minutes before cooking time is up, add the broccoli florets to the slow cooker. This ensures they stay bright green and tender-crisp. It’s a little pop of color and texture that complements the dish beautifully.

Step 7: Remove and Keep Warm

Carefully remove the chicken, potatoes, and broccoli from the slow cooker and cover them to keep warm. It’s like setting the stage for the grand finale—this is where things really come together.

Step 8: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and cornstarch until smooth. Pour this creamy concoction into the slow cooker and stir well. Now cover and cook on high heat for an additional 10 to 15 minutes or until sauce has thickened to your liking.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Time to dig in! Plate up those tender chicken thighs, potatoes, and broccoli, then drizzle generously with luscious cream sauce. The rich garlic notes with a hint of lemon will have everyone coming back for seconds. 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 a breeze, and it pairs wonderfully with various sides. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

Pair with Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: Perfect for soaking up the creamy garlic sauce.
• Garlic Bread: Adds an extra layer of flavor and complements the dish beautifully.

Add a Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: A light option with vinaigrette that balances the richness of the chicken.
• Caesar Salad: For a classic touch, add crunchy croutons and parmesan cheese (or a plant-based alternative).

Serve Over Rice or Pasta

• Steamed White Rice: Absorbs the sauce well and makes for a hearty side.
• Pasta: Toss with olive oil and herbs for an elegant pairing.

Include Steamed or Roasted Vegetables

• Green Beans: Bright and crisp, they add color and nutrition to your plate.
• Roasted Carrots: Sweet and caramelized, they complement the savory chicken perfectly.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Chicken And Veggies Recipe

Perfecting this slow cooker recipe can enhance your dining experience. Here are some tips to ensure success.

• Use Bone-In Chicken Thighs: They keep the meat juicy and flavorful during cooking.
• Sear the Chicken First: This step enhances flavor through browning, adding depth to the dish.
• Don’t Skip Seasoning: Properly seasoning at each stage ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
• Adjust Cooking Time as Needed: Depending on your slow cooker, monitor doneness to avoid overcooking.
• Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to add fresh herbs like parsley or basil for extra freshness.

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

Complement your Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Chicken and Veggies with these delightful side dishes that enhance its flavors.

1. Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa adds a healthy grain option, easily flavored with herbs.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy, caramelized sprouts make for a tasty counterpoint to the creamy sauce.
3. Mashed Cauliflower: A low-carb alternative that’s creamy and pairs well with garlic flavors.
4. Herbed Couscous: Light and fluffy, couscous absorbs sauce beautifully while adding texture.
5. Zucchini Noodles: A fresh, low-calorie option that offers a unique twist on traditional pasta.
6. Sweet Potato Wedges: Roasted until crispy, they provide a sweet contrast to the rich dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Chicken And Veggies Recipe, avoid these common pitfalls to ensure a delicious outcome.

• Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting to season your chicken can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to use smoked paprika, salt, and pepper generously.
• Overcrowding the slow cooker: Placing too many ingredients in the slow cooker can prevent even cooking. Ensure there’s enough space for air to circulate around each item.
• Not browning the chicken: Searing the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker enhances flavor and texture. Don’t skip this step for a richer taste!
• Ignoring cooking times: Cooking for too long can dry out the chicken. Keep an eye on your timer and aim for 5 to 6 hours on low heat.
• Forgetting the veggies timing: Adding broccoli too early can make it mushy. Add it about 30 minutes before serving for the perfect texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3 to 4 days for best quality.

Freezing Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Chicken And Veggies Recipe

• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months; label with the date.

Reheating Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Chicken And Veggies Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on high in short bursts, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section addresses some common inquiries regarding the Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Chicken And Veggies Recipe.

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of bone-in?

Yes! Boneless chicken thighs will work well but may cook faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How do I customize my Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Chicken And Veggies Recipe?

Feel free to swap out vegetables like carrots or green beans based on your preference. You can also experiment with different herbs!

What can I serve with this recipe?

This dish pairs perfectly with rice or crusty bread, which helps soak up the creamy garlic sauce.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! The Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Chicken And Veggies Recipe stores well and makes excellent leftovers for lunch throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

The Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Chicken And Veggies Recipe is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize it with various vegetables or spices based on your taste. Give it a try and savor every bite!