Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies
If you’re looking for a delicious and easy meal that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds, look no further than this Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies recipe. This dish combines tender chicken tenders, vibrant baby carrots, and hearty Yukon gold potatoes, all infused with rich garlic butter flavors. Perfect for a busy day, this recipe requires minimal prep and lets your slow cooker do the work, resulting in a comforting, flavorful meal that your family will love.
A Personal Story Behind My Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies Journey
I remember the first time I made this dish for my family. It was a chilly evening, and I wanted to prepare something that would bring warmth and joy to our dinner table. As the aroma of garlic and butter filled the kitchen, my kids came running, excited to see what was cooking. This recipe has since become a family favorite, often requested on busy weeknights. The ease of preparation combined with the delightful flavors makes it a perfect addition to our dinner rotation.
What Makes This Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies Recipe Special?
What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity and the depth of flavor achieved through slow cooking. The chicken becomes incredibly tender, and the vegetables absorb all the savory goodness from the garlic butter. Not only does this dish taste amazing, but it also provides a well-rounded meal with protein and vegetables. Plus, you can customize it with different herbs or seasonings based on your preference. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, it’s sure to impress.
The Full Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs. boneless skinless chicken tenders (or chicken breasts)
- 1 lb. baby carrots
- 1 1/2 lbs. Yukon gold potatoes, cut into wedges
- 1/2 cup salted butter, melted
- 1 Tbsp. minced garlic (or 1 tsp. garlic powder)
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1/4 tsp. pepper
- 1 tsp. dried thyme leaves
- 1 tsp. dried parsley
Instructions
- Begin by placing the chicken in the center of your slow cooker. Make sure to space it out evenly to ensure even cooking.
- Next, arrange the Yukon gold potato wedges on one side and the baby carrots on the other side of the slow cooker. This will help with even cooking and allow the flavors to mingle.
- In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, salt, pepper, thyme, and parsley. Stir well until all ingredients are fully incorporated. This mixture will add an incredible flavor to your dish!
- Pour the butter mixture over the chicken and vegetables, making sure to cover everything evenly for maximum flavor.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on HIGH for 4 hours or on LOW for 6-8 hours. Check the chicken’s doneness; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Once cooked, serve and savor the flavors! Enjoy your meal with your family.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies
This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce. For a twist, try using Italian seasoning instead of thyme and parsley for a different flavor profile. You can also substitute chicken thighs for the tenders or breasts if you prefer dark meat. Additionally, for a lighter version, consider swapping the butter for chicken broth or using water with a chicken bouillon cube. This recipe is versatile and can be adjusted to fit your dietary preferences while still remaining delicious!
Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but you should cook it on HIGH for a longer time to ensure it reaches the safe cooking temperature. Just keep an eye on the cooking time.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Try shredding the chicken and using it in salads or wraps for a quick lunch option.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. Just remember that softer vegetables may cook faster, so add them halfway through the cooking time for the best results.
Now that you have the full recipe, gather your ingredients and let your slow cooker do the magic!
Recipe Stats
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-8 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes – 8 hours 10 minutes
- Calories per Serving: Not specified
- Servings: 4-6
Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies
Equipment
- Slow Cooker Any standard slow cooker will work.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken tenders or chicken breasts
- 1 lbs baby carrots
- 1.5 lbs Yukon gold potatoes cut into wedges
- 0.5 cup salted butter melted
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic or 1 tsp. garlic powder
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 0.25 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp dried thyme leaves
- 1 tsp dried parsley
Instructions
- Place the chicken in the center of the slow cooker. Arrange the potatoes on one side and the carrots on the other side.
- In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, garlic, salt, pepper, thyme, and parsley. Stir well to combine.
- Pour the butter mixture over the chicken and vegetables, ensuring everything is well coated.
- Cover and cook on HIGH for 4 hours or on LOW for 6-8 hours. Check for doneness; chicken should be at 165°F.
- Serve and savor the flavors! Enjoy your meal with your loved ones.