Are you a busy cook always on the lookout for simple yet delicious recipes that can save you time without compromising on flavor? Look no further! This easy chicken slow cooker recipe is tailored for individuals who want a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Here's how you can make a tasty chicken dish with minimal effort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 boneless chicken breasts
- 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tsp dried Italian herbs (or your favorite herb mix)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh basil for garnish
Preparation Steps
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Prepare the Ingredients:
- Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
- Open the can of diced tomatoes.
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Assemble the Slow Cooker:
- Place chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker.
- Top with chopped onions and minced garlic.
- Pour the can of diced tomatoes over the chicken, followed by chicken broth.
- Sprinkle Italian herbs, salt, and pepper over the contents.
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Cooking Time:
- Set the slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and easily shreddable.
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Final Touches:
- Shred the chicken using two forks and mix it with the sauce inside the slow cooker.
- If desired, garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Serving Suggestions
| Serving Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Over Rice | Serve your chicken and sauce over steamed white or brown rice for a complete meal. |
| With Pasta | Toss the shredded chicken with your favorite pasta for an Italian-inspired dish. |
| As a Sandwich Filling | Use the shredded chicken as a savory filling in sandwich rolls or wraps. |
🎯 Note: Remember to adjust cooking times based on your slow cooker's efficiency and your preferred texture of the chicken.
Why Use a Slow Cooker?
Here are several reasons why using a slow cooker for this recipe makes perfect sense:
- Time-saving: Set it and forget it, freeing up your time for other tasks or relaxation.
- Flavor Infusion: Low and slow cooking lets the flavors meld beautifully together.
- Energy Efficiency: Slow cookers use less energy than traditional ovens.
- Meal Prep: Prepare multiple meals at once, storing leftovers for future dinners.
To wrap up, this chicken slow cooker recipe is a lifesaver for anyone short on time but unwilling to compromise on taste. Whether you're cooking for yourself, your family, or preparing a meal for a gathering, this dish is versatile, easy to make, and can be adapted to various serving styles. Enjoy a hassle-free cooking experience and savor a home-cooked meal without the usual time investment.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
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Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but you might need to extend the cooking time by an hour or so on low setting.
What can I do if my sauce is too watery?
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If your sauce is too watery, remove the chicken, turn the slow cooker to high, and let the liquid reduce. Alternatively, you can thicken it with a cornstarch slurry.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
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Absolutely! Replace the chicken with your favorite vegetables like carrots, potatoes, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Adjust the herbs to complement the vegetables.
