Discover the Joy of Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies

Slow cooker meals are a lifesaver for busy families, and this Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies recipe is no exception. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal hands-on time, you can enjoy a delicious, flavor-packed dinner that practically cooks itself. The tender chicken, soft carrots, and creamy potatoes simmered in a rich garlic butter sauce make this dish a true comfort food classic.

Table of Contents

The Benefits of Using a Slow Cooker

Slow cookers are a game-changer when it comes to making mealtime a breeze. Not only do they save you time and effort, but they also allow you to create deeply flavorful dishes with little monitoring. Simply toss your ingredients into the pot, set it, and forget it – the slow, low heat does all the work, infusing your meal with incredible taste. Plus, the convenient hands-off nature of slow cooking means you can focus on other tasks while dinner practically cooks itself. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, a slow cooker is an invaluable tool for busy home cooks.

Ingredients in Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can create a comforting, satisfying meal:

• 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken tenders
• 1 lb baby carrots
• 1 1/2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into wedges
• 1/2 cup salted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves (not ground)
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley

The combination of tender chicken, hearty veggies, and a flavor-packed garlic butter sauce is simply irresistible. By using high-quality, fresh ingredients, you can elevate this dish to new heights of deliciousness.

How to Make Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies

Preparing the Ingredients

Before assembling your Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies, take a few moments to prepare the ingredients. Start by washing and trimming the baby carrots, then cut the potatoes into wedges. For the chicken, you can leave the tenders whole or cut them into bite-sized pieces if desired.

Assembling the Slow Cooker

Place the chicken tenders in the center of the slow cooker. Arrange the potato wedges on one side and the baby carrots on the other. This strategic placement ensures even cooking throughout the dish.

Making the Garlic Butter Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic (or garlic powder), salt, pepper, thyme, and parsley until well combined. This fragrant garlic butter mixture will infuse the chicken and veggies with incredible flavor as they cook.

Cooking Times and Techniques

Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on HIGH for 4 hours or on LOW for 6-8 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. Be sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken, which should reach 165°F (75°C) for food safety.

Serving Suggestions

Presentation and Garnishing

When the Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies is ready, use a slotted spoon to transfer the chicken and vegetables to a serving platter. Spoon some of the delicious garlic butter sauce over the top for a visually appealing and flavorful presentation. You can also garnish the dish with fresh chopped parsley or thyme for a pop of color and freshness.

Complementary Side Dishes

This one-pot wonder pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or a crusty loaf of bread for sopping up the garlic butter sauce. For an extra indulgent meal, consider serving the Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies alongside some creamy mashed potatoes or a side of steamed broccoli.

Nutritional Information

Macronutrient Breakdown

Each serving of Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies contains approximately 390 calories, 18g of fat, 30g of carbohydrates, and 32g of protein, making it a well-balanced and satisfying meal.

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

The chicken in this dish is a great source of lean protein, while the carrots and potatoes provide complex carbohydrates, fiber, and a variety of essential vitamins and minerals. The herbs and spices not only enhance the flavor but also offer antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. By using moderation with the butter and avoiding excessive salt, you can enjoy this comforting slow cooker meal as part of a healthy, balanced diet.

Variations and Substitutions

Ingredient Substitutions

If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, you can easily adapt this Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies recipe. For a dairy-free version, replace the butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative. You can also swap the chicken tenders for boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. And if you’re not a fan of a particular vegetable, feel free to substitute it with something you enjoy, such as green beans, bell peppers, or zucchini.

Recipe Variations

To put a unique spin on this dish, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to the garlic butter mixture for an umami-rich twist. You could also experiment with different herb blends, such as Italian seasoning or a Cajun spice mix, to change up the flavor profile. For a heartier meal, serve the Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies over a bed of rice or pasta.

FAQs

Can I add different vegetables to the Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies?

Yes, you can absolutely customize the vegetable selection in this recipe. While baby carrots and Yukon Gold potatoes are recommended, you can add other vegetables like green beans, bell peppers, zucchini, or even broccoli. Just keep in mind that different vegetables may have varying cooking times, so it’s best to add quicker-cooking vegetables later in the process if you prefer them to maintain some crunch. For example, you could add green beans during the last hour of cooking to prevent them from becoming too soft.

How can I make Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies healthier?

There are several ways to make this dish healthier. You can use skinless chicken breast instead of chicken tenders to reduce fat content. Additionally, consider replacing butter with a healthier fat alternative, such as olive oil or avocado oil. You can also increase the vegetable ratio by adding more non-starchy vegetables like spinach or kale, which will enhance the nutritional profile without adding many calories. Finally, using low-sodium broth instead of regular broth can help control sodium intake.

Can I cook this dish on high heat instead of low heat?

Yes, you can cook Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies on high heat. However, the cooking time will be reduced; typically, it will take about 3 to 4 hours on high compared to 6 to 8 hours on low. Keep an eye on the chicken to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety. Cooking on high heat may also lead to slightly different texture outcomes, so adjust accordingly based on your preference.

What can I do with leftovers from this dish?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can enjoy them cold, or reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop. Consider transforming the leftovers into a hearty chicken and vegetable soup by adding some broth and extra seasonings, or use them as filling for wraps or salads. This versatility can help minimize food waste and provide quick meal options throughout the week.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine with Garlic Cajun Butter
• Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken
• Creamy Garlic Tuscan Chicken

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies is a delectable, one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed family dinners. With its tender chicken, soft vegetables, and rich garlic butter sauce, this dish delivers on both flavor and convenience. By taking advantage of the slow cooker’s magical abilities, you can enjoy a comforting, home-cooked meal with minimal effort. Give this recipe a try, and get ready to savor the irresistible aroma and taste of Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies.

For more snack ideas and kitchen inspiration, follow me on Pinterest.

Print