Hearty Chicken and Veggie Delight
Savor this Hearty Chicken and Veggie Delight, a wholesome crock-pot recipe perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 big bag baby carrots
- 3 chicken breasts (or 1 per person)
- 3 lbs cubed potatoes (or sweet potato, 1 lb a person)
- 1 peeled and cubed onion
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup Earth Balance butter
- 4 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 tablespoon Mrs. Dash garlic and herb seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 5 tablespoons Earth Balance butter (for topping)
- 5 small handfuls brown sugar (for topping)
Instructions
- In a crock-pot, combine water, baby carrots, chicken breasts, cubed potatoes, and cubed onion.
- In a separate bowl, melt the extra virgin olive oil, Earth Balance butter, and mix with garlic salt, black pepper, brown sugar, thyme, garlic and herb seasoning, and cayenne pepper.
- Stir the mixture from the bowl and pour it evenly over the ingredients in the crock-pot.
- Spread the remaining Earth Balance butter and brown sugar over the top of the mixture.
- Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours until everything is tender.
- Use the broth from the crock-pot to make a delicious gravy and serve.
Nutritional Information
Approx. 400 calories per serving
Recipe Overview
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Equipment Needed: Crock-pot, mixing bowl, measuring cups, and spoons
- Kitchen Tips: Prep ingredients the night before for a quick start in the morning.
- Make-Ahead Options: Assemble all ingredients in the crock-pot and refrigerate overnight.
Ingredient Deep Dive
- Quality Selection Guide: Choose firm, fresh veggies and chicken with no discoloration.
- Storage Tips: Keep leftover portions in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Substitutions: Use quinoa for potatoes or tofu for chicken for a vegetarian option.
- Measurement Conversions: 1 cup = 16 tablespoons; 1 lb = 16 oz.
Expert Techniques
- Professional Tips: Sear the chicken breasts for added flavor before adding to the pot.
- Common Mistakes: Overcrowding the crock-pot can prevent even cooking.
- Visual Cues: Look for tender vegetables and chicken that easily shreds.
- Equipment Alternatives: A Dutch oven can be used for stovetop cooking if a crock-pot isn t available.
Serving & Presentation
- Plating Suggestions: Serve in shallow bowls with a sprinkling of fresh herbs on top.
- Food Pairing: Pair with crusty bread or a light salad for a balanced meal.
- Portion Guidelines: Serve 1 cup of the dish per person for a satisfying meal.
- Special Occasions: Great for family gatherings or potlucks due to its ease of preparation.
Nutrition & Health
- Detailed Nutrition: Each serving contains approx. 400 calories, 25g protein, and 15g fat.
- Health Benefits: High in fiber from vegetables, supports digestive health.
- Dietary Considerations: Gluten-free if using certified ingredients; can be made dairy-free.
- Wellness Tips: Add leafy greens to the dish for extra vitamins and minerals.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Ensure that the dish has cooled completely before sealing the container.
This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Portion it into freezer bags or containers for easy access.
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture.
For frozen portions, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Always check for signs of spoilage before consuming leftovers. If in doubt, throw it out!
Variations & Adaptations
Incorporate seasonal vegetables such as zucchini in the summer or root vegetables in the winter for a fresh twist.
Substitute chicken with plant-based proteins for a vegetarian option, or use gluten-free ingredients as needed.
Double or halve the recipe based on your gathering size. Adjust seasoning accordingly for larger portions.
Use frozen vegetables or buy in bulk to save on costs without sacrificing flavor.
Troubleshooting FAQ
If the dish is too watery, remove the lid during the last hour of cooking to allow excess moisture to evaporate.
Add cornstarch mixed with a little water to thicken the gravy if it turns out too thin.
For a more intense flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the seasoning mix overnight before cooking.
Prep all ingredients the night before to streamline your cooking process in the morning.
Community & Sharing
This hearty dish is perfect for potlucks and family gatherings, serving as a crowd-pleaser.
Rooted in American comfort food traditions, this dish brings warmth and togetherness to the table.
Inspired by traditional slow-cooked meals, it offers a modern twist with easy preparation.
Consider making a double batch to enjoy throughout the week; just refrigerate or freeze portions as needed.