Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Chicken And Veggies Recipe

Tender chicken and fresh vegetables simmered in a rich, creamy garlic sauce make the Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Chicken And Veggies Recipe a go-to for any occasion. This comforting dish is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or when you’re entertaining guests. With minimal effort, you can create a flavorful meal that will impress everyone at the table. The slow cooker does all the hard work, allowing you to enjoy tender chicken and perfectly cooked veggies without the hassle.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Just season, sear, and let your slow cooker do the rest.
• Rich Flavor: The creamy garlic sauce elevates the dish with its deliciously rich taste.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Family-Friendly: A comforting dish that appeals to both kids and adults.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started, gather your essential tools for this recipe. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large cast iron skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking while infusing flavors over several hours.
• Large cast iron skillet: Perfect for searing chicken, ensuring a golden-brown crust and locking in juices.

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Ingredients

Tender chicken and fresh vegetables simmered in a rich, creamy garlic sauce, perfectly cooked in a slow cooker for a comforting and effortless meal.

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 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:
1. Add the chicken thighs skin-side down.
2. Sear until both sides are beautifully golden brown—about 2 to 3 minutes per side.
3. After they’re browned to perfection, drain any excess fat and set the chicken aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Slow Cooker Base

Toss the halved baby red potatoes into your trusty 6-quart slow cooker. To this:
1. Add white apple vinegar, chicken stock, chopped shallots, minced garlic, and dried thyme.
2. Stir well to mix everything together nicely.
3. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Arrange the Chicken

Place the seared chicken thighs evenly over the potato mixture in the slow cooker:
1. Ensure they’re snug but not overcrowded for even cooking.
2. This setup allows juices from the chicken to blend into the potatoes.

Step 5: Slow Cook

Cover your slow cooker and set it to low heat:
1. Let it cook for about 5 to 6 hours.
2. Check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.

Step 6: Add the Broccoli

About 30 minutes before cooking time is up:
1. Add broccoli florets to maintain their bright green color and tender-crisp texture.

Step 7: Remove and Keep Warm

Carefully remove everything from the slow cooker:
1. Cover them to keep warm while you prepare the sauce.

Step 8: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl:
1. Whisk together heavy cream, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and cornstarch until smooth.
2. Pour this mixture into your slow cooker and stir well.
3. Cover again and cook on high heat for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until thickened.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Plate up those tender chicken thighs along with potatoes and broccoli:
– Drizzle generously with that luscious cream sauce.
– 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 all about enhancing the flavors and making the meal feel complete. Here are some great serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley – Sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Thyme Sprigs – Add whole thyme sprigs for an aromatic touch that complements the dish.

Pair with Grains

• Quinoa – Serve the chicken and veggies over a bed of fluffy quinoa for added protein and texture.
• Brown Rice – A side of brown rice absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully, making every bite delightful.

Add a Salad

• Mixed Green Salad – A fresh salad with greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
• Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy chicken.

Offer Bread

• Crusty Bread – Serve with slices of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Garlic Bread – Enhance the garlic flavor by serving with warm, toasted garlic bread.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Chicken And Veggies Recipe

To ensure your Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Chicken and Veggies turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Bone-in Chicken Thighs – They stay moist during cooking and add more flavor compared to boneless cuts.
• Sear Before Slow Cooking – Searing chicken before adding it to the slow cooker creates a deeper flavor profile.
• Adjust Seasoning – Taste as you go; add more salt or pepper if needed to enhance flavors.
• Cook on Low Heat – Cooking on low allows flavors to meld beautifully over several hours.
• Add Vegetables at the Right Time – Incorporate delicate vegetables like broccoli toward the end of cooking for optimal texture.
• Thicken Sauce Wisely – Whisk cornstarch with cream until smooth before adding to avoid lumps in your sauce.

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

Pairing your Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Chicken and Veggies with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes seasoned with garlic make a comforting pairing.
2. Steamed Asparagus – Lightly steamed asparagus adds a fresh crunch and vibrant color to your plate.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts offer a delicious contrast to the creamy chicken.
4. Cauliflower Rice – A low-carb alternative that soaks up sauce well while adding fiber.
5. Baked Sweet Potatoes – Sweet potatoes provide natural sweetness that balances savory flavors in this dish.
6. Couscous Salad – A light couscous salad with vegetables brings brightness and a bit of chewiness to your meal.
7. Cornbread Muffins – Moist cornbread muffins complement the richness of the creamy garlic sauce perfectly.
8. Zucchini Noodles – Spiralized zucchini adds freshness and is great for those looking for lighter options.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking in a slow cooker can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch for. Here are some mistakes you should avoid:

• Overcrowding the Cooker: Filling the slow cooker too much can lead to uneven cooking. Always ensure there’s enough space for steam to circulate around the ingredients.

• Skipping the Searing Step: Not searing the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker can result in a less flavorful dish. Take the time to brown your chicken for added depth and taste.

• Using Too Much Liquid: A common mistake is adding too much broth or liquid. This can dilute flavors and make the dish watery. Stick to recommended amounts for best results.

• Not Adjusting Cooking Times: Every slow cooker is different. If it’s your first time using a specific model, check for doneness earlier than suggested, especially with meats.

• Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Adding delicate vegetables like broccoli too early can lead to mushiness. Add them towards the end of cooking for better texture and color.

• Ignoring Seasoning Layers: Adding all your seasonings at once can result in a flat flavor profile. Layer your seasonings throughout the cooking process for balanced seasoning.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Chicken And Veggies Recipe

• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Chicken And Veggies Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts, stirring occasionally until warm.
• Stovetop: Reheat over low heat, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries about the Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Chicken And Veggies Recipe:

How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Chicken And Veggies Recipe?

It typically takes about 5 to 6 hours on low heat for this recipe.

Can I use different vegetables in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables like carrots or bell peppers.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can replace heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a lighter option.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Use non-dairy alternatives like almond milk mixed with a plant-based gelling agent instead of cream.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Definitely! You can prepare all ingredients the night before and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.

Final Thoughts

The Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Chicken And Veggies Recipe is not only comforting but also versatile! With its rich flavors and tender textures, it’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Try customizing it with different vegetables or herbs based on your preferences!