Introduction
Experience comfort food at its finest with this delicious Crockpot Chicken and Herb-Infused Potatoes recipe. It’s a hearty meal that’s perfect for any day, featuring tender chicken and savory potatoes cooked to perfection in your slow cooker.
Ingredients
600g boneless, skinless chicken breasts
800g baby potatoes, halved
200ml chicken broth
60ml olive oil
10g garlic powder
10g onion powder
5g dried thyme
5g dried rosemary
5g dried parsley
Salt and pepper to taste
15ml lemon juice
200g carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
100g onion, sliced
Prep Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions
1. In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried rosemary, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasoning mix over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are evenly coated.
2. Place the chicken in the bottom of the crockpot.
3. Add the halved potatoes, carrots, and sliced onion on top of the chicken.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and olive oil over the top.
5. Drizzle lemon juice over the entire mixture for an extra burst of flavor.
6. Cover the crockpot with a lid and cook on low heat for 6-7 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and the potatoes are tender.
7. Serve the chicken and potatoes hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Seasoning Mix
In a small mixing bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried rosemary, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. This aromatic blend creates a flavor base that will seep into the chicken and potatoes, infusing them with savory notes.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Take the chicken breasts and generously rub the seasoning mix all over them, ensuring every surface is coated. This step is key to ensuring the chicken is flavorful and fragrant once cooked.
Step 3: Layer the Crockpot
Place the seasoned chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. This creates a juicy foundation for your meal.
Step 4: Add Vegetables
On top of the chicken, add the halved baby potatoes, carrots cut into chunks, and sliced onions. These vegetables will soften and absorb the delicious chicken juices as they cook.
Step 5: Pour in the Liquid
Pour the chicken broth and olive oil over the layered ingredients. This mixture not only prevents the ingredients from drying out but also adds depth to the dish’s flavor profile.
Step 6: Add Lemon Juice
Drizzle the lemon juice over the entire mixture. The acidity of the lemon will brighten the dish, giving it a fresh, vibrant taste.
Step 7: Cook
Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low heat for 6-7 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F), and the potatoes should be beautifully tender.
Step 8: Serve
Once cooked, serve the chicken and potatoes hot. For an added touch, garnish with additional fresh parsley. Enjoy the warm aromas and the comforting experience of this hearty meal.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
Pair this dish with a crisp green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices.
Storage Instructions
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Customization Options
Feel free to substitute chicken thighs for breasts if you prefer dark meat. You can also add other vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini for more variety.
Cooking Tips
For optimal flavor, consider searing the chicken breasts in a pan before adding them to the crockpot. This step enhances the dish with a delicious caramelized flavor, adding an extra layer of richness.
Cook techniques
Seasoning the Chicken
Rub a mix of garlic powder, onion powder, and dried herbs onto the chicken breasts to enhance flavor.
Layering Ingredients
Place the seasoned chicken at the bottom of the crockpot and layer the vegetables on top for even cooking.
Slow Cooking
Cook on low heat for 6-7 hours or high heat for 3-4 hours to achieve tender chicken and soft potatoes.
Using Broth for Moisture
Incorporate chicken broth and olive oil to keep the chicken moist and flavorful during cooking.
Adding Freshness
Drizzle lemon juice over the ingredients before cooking to add a fresh, tangy flavor to the dish.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but adjust the cooking time. They may require an additional hour on low or half an hour on high.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or green beans.
What do I do if the chicken is dry?
Make sure to ensure there’s enough liquid in the crockpot and avoid overcooking the chicken.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients the night before and store them in the refrigerator. Cook the following day.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Conclusion
This Crockpot Chicken and Herb-Infused Potatoes recipe is a delightful and convenient way to enjoy a mouthwatering meal with minimal effort. The combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked potatoes, and aromatic herbs creates a satisfying dish that is sure to please your family and friends. Whether served on a busy weeknight or for a comforting weekend dinner, this recipe guarantees a wholesome and delicious experience.
Herb-Infused Quinoa Bowl
Swap the potatoes for quinoa for a nutritious twist. Cook quinoa in vegetable broth, then top with the seasoned chicken and your choice of vegetables like bell peppers and spinach for a hearty bowl.
Garlic Butter Noodles
Serve the chicken and potatoes over garlic butter noodles instead of on their own. Toss cooked pasta with butter, minced garlic, and fresh herbs for a decadent side that complements the flavors of the dish.
Spicy Chicken Tacos
Transform the chicken into a filling for tacos. Shred the cooked chicken and mix it with your favorite taco seasonings. Serve in tortillas with toppings like avocado, salsa, and cilantro for a fun twist.
Vegetable Stir-Fry
Use the herbs and seasoning with a mix of stir-fried vegetables. Sauté bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas with pieces of the crockpot chicken for a colorful and healthy meal that’s quick to prepare.
Chicken and Rice Casserole
Combine shredded chicken and cooked rice in a casserole dish. Mix with the seasoned broth and any leftover veggies from the crockpot. Top with cheese and bake until bubbly for a comforting casserole dish.
