Delicious Slow Cooker Chicken and Vegetables

Looking for a simple yet delicious meal that can be prepared in advance? Look no further than this slow cooker chicken and vegetable recipe. This dish is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something hearty but don't have much time to spend in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• 2 medium onions, chopped
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup chicken broth
• Assorted vegetables (such as carrots, potatoes, green beans)

Instructions

1. Preheat your slow cooker on low or high.
2. Rinse the chicken under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Rub the chicken all over with olive oil or butter. Sprinkle salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika inside and out.
3. Place the chicken in the slow cooker. Pour the chicken broth around it. Add the chopped onions and garlic on top of the chicken.
4. Cut the vegetables into bite-sized pieces and place them around or on top of the chicken. Ensure that all ingredients are evenly distributed so they cook together harmoniously.
5. Secure the lid on the slow cooker, set to low heat for 6-8 hours if you're cooking during the day, or high heat overnight if you prefer a more tender texture.
6. Once done, use tongs or a fork to lift out the chicken and place it in a platter. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken back into the slow cooker with the vegetables for a few minutes until heated through.

Cooking Time & Servings

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 6-8 hours on low or overnight high heat
Servings: Approximately 4-6 people

Tips for Success

• For a more tender and juicy chicken, opt to use a whole bone-in chicken. If you’re using boneless skinless chicken breasts, it may require longer cooking time.
• If you want extra flavor, add a splash of lemon juice or white wine when adding the broth.
• Vary your vegetables depending on what’s fresh at the grocery store. Consider trying sweet potatoes or peas for a change in taste and color.

Additional Variations

This versatile recipe opens up to numerous variations:

• Add some heat!: Mix in 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper right after you add the chicken broth. This will give your dish a kick that complements perfectly with the natural sweetness of carrots and onions.
• Looking for something creamy? Serve this dish over rice or polenta. A dollop of sour cream on top adds an extra layer of flavor and texture.
• If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding a few tablespoons of honey to sweeten your chicken mixture slightly. This can be particularly delicious with the tangy note of white wine.

Nutritional Information (Approximate Values)

Per Serving:

• Calories: 350-400
  
• Total Fat: 18g
  
• Saturated Fat: 6g
  
• Cholesterol: 90mg
  
• Sodium: 300mg
  
• Carbohydrates: 25g
  
• Fiber: 7g
  
• Sugar: 14g
  
• Protein: 38g

Conclusion

This slow cooker chicken and vegetables recipe is more than just another dish; it’s a meal that brings everyone together. Whether you're hosting friends or simply looking for a comforting dinner, this simple yet flavorful recipe will satisfy your taste buds while keeping things easy on your busy schedule.