There’s something truly comforting about a warm plate of slow cooker chicken and potatoes, isn’t there? This recipe is like a warm hug on a chilly day—simple to prepare and packed with flavor. I love how the slow cooker does all the hard work for us while we go about our day, filling the home with the most delightful aroma. Trust me, when you come home to that delicious scent, you’ll feel instantly at ease. The chicken turns out tender and juicy, while the potatoes soak up all those lovely flavors, creating a hearty meal that’s perfect for any day of the week.
If you’ve ever felt a bit overwhelmed by cooking, don’t worry! This recipe is straightforward and forgiving, making it ideal for cooks of all skill levels. Whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner for yourself or feeding the whole family, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. So, let’s dive in and get started on this delightful slow cooker chicken and potatoes masterpiece!
Ingredients List
- 4 chicken thighs, skinless and boneless
- 4 medium potatoes, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 1 onion, chopped finely
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (or more if you love garlic!)
- 2 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh if you have it!)
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for browning the chicken)
How to Prepare Instructions
- First things first, let’s season the chicken thighs! Sprinkle them with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple step adds so much flavor.
- Next, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once it’s nice and hot, gently place the seasoned chicken in the pan. Brown each side for about 3-4 minutes until it’s golden and delicious. This browning step is optional, but it makes a big difference in flavor!
- While the chicken is browning, let’s prep our veggies. In your slow cooker, add the diced potatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Give them a little stir to combine. The potatoes will soak up all the wonderful flavors as they cook!
- Once the chicken is browned, it’s time to add it to the slow cooker. Just place the chicken thighs right on top of the veggies. Don’t worry if they overlap a bit; they’ll fit just fine!
- Now, pour the chicken broth over everything in the slow cooker. This will keep the chicken moist and flavorful as it cooks. You can also sprinkle the dried thyme right on top for that lovely herbal aroma.
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid. If you’re cooking on low, let it work its magic for about 6 to 7 hours. If you’re in a bit of a hurry, you can cook it on high for 3 to 4 hours instead. Just know that the longer cooking time will make the chicken extra tender.
- About 30 minutes before you plan to serve, take a peek! You’ll want to check that the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If everything looks good, just let it finish cooking.
- Once it’s done, carefully remove the chicken and veggies from the slow cooker. Serve them warm on a plate, and don’t forget to spoon some of that flavorful broth over everything. I promise, it’s a delightful touch!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a great choice for busy days or when you want a hassle-free meal.
- The slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to enjoy the comforting aroma of home-cooked food without being tied to the kitchen.
- This dish is wonderfully versatile—feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or adjust the spices to suit your taste.
- It’s a hearty, nutritious meal that’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, bringing everyone together around the table.
- With options for low-sodium broth or different types of potatoes, it’s easy to customize for dietary needs.
Tips for Success
To ensure your slow cooker chicken and potatoes turn out perfectly every time, here are a few handy tips! First, always check your slow cooker’s temperature setting, as some cook faster than others. If you’re using a newer model, it might cook quicker on low, so keep an eye on it!
Make sure to check the chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (75°C) to be safe and delicious. If you find it’s not quite there, just give it a bit more time. Also, don’t hesitate to add extra vegetables like carrots or celery for added flavor and nutrition—just adjust the cooking time slightly if you’re using harder veggies.
Lastly, remember to taste the broth before serving. You might want to add a pinch more salt or pepper to suit your preference. Trust me, these little tweaks can make a big difference!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional values for one serving of this comforting slow cooker chicken and potatoes:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fiber: 4g
Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. It’s always a good idea to adjust based on your dietary needs and preferences!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts are a great substitute if you prefer them. Just remember that they can cook a bit faster, so check for doneness around the 3-hour mark on high or 5 hours on low.
Can I add other vegetables to the slow cooker chicken and potatoes?
Yes, you can! Carrots, green beans, or even bell peppers work wonderfully. Just chop them into similar sizes to ensure even cooking. If you use tougher vegetables, you may want to add them a little later in the cooking process.
What if I don’t have chicken broth?
No problem! You can use vegetable broth or even water in a pinch. Just keep in mind that using broth will enhance the flavor significantly.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep everything the night before and store it in the refrigerator. In the morning, just pop it into the slow cooker, and you’ll have a warm, comforting meal waiting for you when you return home.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this slow cooker chicken and potatoes recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just make sure to check the labels on your broth to ensure there are no hidden gluten ingredients.
Ingredient Notes/Substitutions
Don’t worry if you don’t have all the ingredients on hand—this recipe is quite flexible! For the chicken, you can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts if that’s your preference. Just keep an eye on the cooking time since breasts can cook faster.
If you’d like to change up the potatoes, sweet potatoes make a delicious alternative, adding a hint of sweetness to the dish. For those watching their sodium intake, using low-sodium chicken broth is a great option that still delivers plenty of flavor.
Feel free to add in other veggies like carrots or green beans to boost the nutrition, or even toss in some herbs like rosemary or parsley for a fresh twist. The beauty of this recipe is that you can adapt it to suit your taste and dietary needs, so don’t hesitate to get creative!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving this comforting slow cooker chicken and potatoes, simplicity is key! A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs beautifully, adding a crisp contrast to the hearty dish. You might also enjoy some steamed broccoli or green beans for a pop of color and nutrition.
If you’re in the mood for something warm, consider serving some fluffy dinner rolls or crusty bread to soak up all that delicious broth. And for a little extra flair, a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top can really make the dish shine. Enjoy your meal!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing leftovers from your slow cooker chicken and potatoes is super easy! Just let the dish cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to save it for longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to label the container with the date!
When it’s time to reheat, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge if frozen. You can warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. Adding a splash of chicken broth while reheating helps maintain that delicious flavor and moisture. Enjoy your comforting meal all over again!
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Slow Cooker Chicken and Potatoes: 7 Comforting Tips to Enjoy
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A comforting slow cooker chicken and potatoes recipe that is easy to prepare and perfect for any day.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 4 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
- In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat and brown the chicken on both sides.
- Place the diced potatoes, onion, and garlic in the slow cooker.
- Add the browned chicken on top of the vegetables.
- Pour the chicken broth over everything.
- Sprinkle thyme on top.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Check that the chicken is cooked through before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts if preferred.
- Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a different flavor.
- For a lower sodium option, use low-sodium chicken broth.
- Add carrots or celery for extra vegetables.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: slow cooker chicken and potatoes, easy chicken recipe, comfort food
