Easy crockpot dinner is a perfect solution for busy weeknights when you want a hearty, wholesome meal without the fuss. This one-pot dish combines tender chicken breasts with baby carrots, potatoes, and aromatic herbs, all simmered together for maximum flavor. Set it and forget it, and return home to a comforting dinner ready to enjoy.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 pound baby carrots
- 1 pound potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Directions
- In a large crockpot, place the chicken breasts at the bottom.
- Add the carrots, potatoes, onion, and garlic on top of the chicken.
- In a small bowl, mix together the chicken broth, soy sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture over the chicken and vegetables.
- Drizzle olive oil over the top.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through, and the vegetables are soft.
- Serve hot and enjoy a hassle-free, hearty meal!
Servings and Timing
This recipe yields 4 servings. The total time for preparation and cooking is approximately 6 hours and 15 minutes, with 15 minutes for prep and 6-8 hours for cooking.
Variations
- Add More Vegetables: Include green beans, bell peppers, or peas for added nutrition and flavor.
- Different Proteins: Substitute chicken with pork chops or beef stew meat for a variation in taste.
- Herb Blends: Experiment with other herbs like basil, oregano, or parsley for different flavor profiles.
- Spicy Kick: Add a splash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for some heat.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftover crockpot dinner in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the microwave or on the stove until heated through. You can also add a splash of chicken broth to moisten it if it seems dry.
10 FAQs
- Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken; just increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours. - What if I don’t have chicken broth?
You can substitute it with vegetable broth or water, though it may alter the flavor slightly. - Can I cook this on high instead of low?
Yes, you can cook on high for about 3-4 hours, but low cooking yields more tender results. - How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). - Can I prepare this meal the night before?
Yes, you can chop the vegetables and place everything in the crockpot, then refrigerate overnight. Just add the broth and oil in the morning. - What side dishes go well with this?
This dish is complete on its own, but you can serve it with a fresh salad or crusty bread. - Can I add a starch like rice or pasta?
Yes, but add it during the last hour of cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy. - What if I don’t have fresh garlic?
You can use 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder as a substitute. - Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but ensure your crockpot is large enough to accommodate the increased ingredients. - How spicy is this dish?
It is not spicy unless you choose to add hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
Conclusion
Easy crockpot dinner is a flavorful, no-fuss meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. With minimal prep and a variety of ingredient options, it’s an adaptable recipe that will quickly become a family favorite. Simply set your crockpot in the morning and enjoy a warm, delicious dinner at the end of a long day!
PrintEasy Crockpot Dinner
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Description
A hearty and comforting meal made with tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and savory herbs, all cooked to perfection in your crockpot for an effortless dinner.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 pound baby carrots
- 1 pound potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- In a large crockpot, place the chicken breasts at the bottom.
- Add the carrots, potatoes, onion, and garlic on top of the chicken.
- In a small bowl, mix together the chicken broth, soy sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture over the chicken and vegetables.
- Drizzle olive oil over the top.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through, and the vegetables are soft.
- Serve hot and enjoy a hassle-free, hearty meal!
Notes
- For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the soy sauce mixture for an hour before cooking.
- Feel free to substitute other vegetables like bell peppers or green beans.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours