Crockpot Herb Chicken and Veggies

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that practically cooks itself, then you’ve come to the right place! This Crockpot Herb Chicken and Veggies recipe is one I cherish. It’s the kind of dish that fills your home with mouthwatering aromas while you go about your day. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you have family gathering around the table, this recipe delivers delicious comfort without all the fuss.

There’s something truly special about letting fresh herbs blend with tender chicken and vibrant vegetables over hours in a slow cooker. Each bite is a celebration of flavors that remind me of home-cooked meals shared with loved ones. So grab your crockpot and let’s dive into this delightful dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a hearty meal ready to enjoy.
• Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to both kids and adults, making dinner time stress-free.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep it in the morning and come home to a warm, fully cooked dinner.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of herbs and slow cooking creates a fantastic depth of flavor.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with nutritious veggies, it’s a healthy choice for any night of the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe features simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Each one plays an important role in creating those rich flavors we all love. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chicken and Veggies

• Chicken Thighs: 2 lbs, boneless, skinless. Thighs are preferred for their rich flavor and ability to stay incredibly moist and tender during the long cooking process.
• Baby Red Potatoes: 1.5 lbs, halved or quartered. These waxy potatoes hold their shape beautifully in the slow cooker and soak up the delicious herby juices.
• Carrots: 4 large, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces. They add a touch of sweetness and vibrant color.
• Yellow Onion: 1 large, chopped. The onion melts down to create a deeply savory and aromatic base for the sauce.
• Garlic: 5 cloves, minced. Don’t be shy with the garlic; it’s a key flavor component that infuses the entire dish.

For Flavoring

• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons. Used for creating a flavorful sear on the chicken and sautéing the aromatics.
• Chicken Broth: ½ cup, low-sodium. This provides the necessary moisture to steam the veggies and create a light savory sauce without making the dish watery.
• Dried Thyme: 1 teaspoon. A classic herb that pairs wonderfully with chicken, providing an earthy, slightly minty flavor.
• Dried Rosemary: 1 teaspoon. Its pine-like aroma and robust flavor stand up well to slow cooking.
• Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon. Adds a peppery and slightly sweet Mediterranean note.
• Paprika: 1 teaspoon. Lends a subtle sweetness and beautiful reddish hue to the chicken and sauce.
• Salt: 1 teaspoon, or to taste. Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
• Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon, freshly ground. Provides a gentle kick of spice.
• Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup, chopped. Reserved for garnish; it adds a burst of fresh, bright flavor at the end.

Variations

One of my favorite things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adjust it based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.

• Swap the Protein: Try using boneless skinless chicken breasts or even turkey thighs for a different twist!
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to toss in some bell peppers or zucchini if you’re craving extra greens.
• Change Up the Herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or cilantro instead of dried ones for an entirely new flavor profile.
• Make it Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper if you like some heat in your dishes.

How to Make Crockpot Herb Chicken and Veggies

Step 1: Prepare the Herb Rub

In a small bowl, combine dried thyme, rosemary, oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly distributed. This herb rub will be your secret weapon for flavor!

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Pat those boneless skinless chicken thighs dry with paper towels—this is super important! A dry surface helps develop that lovely sear when cooked later on. Generously sprinkle your herb mixture over all sides of each thigh and press it gently into the meat so it sticks well.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken (Optional but Recommended)

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat before adding your seasoned chicken thighs carefully into it. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes per side until they form that beautiful golden crust! This step isn’t just for looks; it adds incredible depth of flavor thanks to those tasty browned bits.

Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics

In that same skillet after removing your chicken thighs (don’t wash it yet!), add chopped yellow onion. Sauté them until softened—about 3-4 minutes—before tossing in minced garlic for another minute until fragrant.

Step 5: Deglaze the Pan

Pour low-sodium chicken broth into your skillet now! Use a wooden spoon to scrape up all those flavorful browned bits stuck at the bottom—it’s where so much goodness hides! Let it simmer briefly to meld those flavors beautifully.

Step 6: Layer the Ingredients

Arrange chopped carrots and baby red potatoes around your seared chicken thighs inside your crockpot. Pour over that glorious onion-garlic-broth mixture evenly—it’ll bring everything together as it cooks.

Step 7: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover your crockpot with its lid and set it on LOW for about 6-8 hours or HIGH for around 3-4 hours! The goal here is tender chicken (165°F internal temp) paired with perfectly tender veggies when pierced with a fork—yum!

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Once everything’s cooked through beautifully, carefully remove your delicious chicken and veggies onto a serving platter! If desired, thicken any remaining liquid left in your crockpot as gravy (check out Additional Tips). Finish by generously garnishing with fresh parsley before digging in!

Enjoy every comforting bite of this Crockpot Herb Chicken and Veggies! It’s sure to become one of those recipes you’ll turn back to time after time—just like I do!

Pro Tips for Making Crockpot Herb Chicken and Veggies

Cooking in a crockpot is all about ease and flavor, so here are some pro tips to ensure you get the best results from your Crockpot Herb Chicken and Veggies!

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Using fresh, high-quality chicken and vegetables makes a significant difference in flavor. Fresh produce not only tastes better but also retains more nutrients during cooking.
• Don’t Skip the Searing: While it’s optional, searing the chicken thighs before adding them to the crockpot helps develop a deeper flavor profile through caramelization. This step enhances the overall taste of your dish, making it even more delicious!
• Layering Matters: When placing ingredients in the crockpot, layer denser vegetables like potatoes at the bottom and lighter items like onions on top. This ensures even cooking and prevents overcooking delicate ingredients.
• Adjust Cooking Time: Every crockpot is different! Be sure to check your dish periodically if you’re trying a new model or recipe. If you’re using frozen chicken, extend the cooking time slightly as needed.
• Save Leftovers Creatively: If you have leftovers, they can be transformed into quick meals! Use them in salads, wraps, or stir-fries throughout the week for easy meal prep.

How to Serve Crockpot Herb Chicken and Veggies

This dish is not only comforting but also visually appealing when served right! Here are some ideas to present your Crockpot Herb Chicken and Veggies beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of lemon juice adds brightness that complements the savory flavors of the dish.
• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkling green onions on top provides a crisp texture and a mild onion flavor that enhances each bite.
• Extra Fresh Parsley: A generous handful of chopped parsley adds vibrant color and freshness, making your dish pop visually.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus brings a crunchy contrast to the tender chicken and veggies while adding nutrients.
• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette pairs well with this hearty meal for extra fiber.
• Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any flavorful juices left on your plate; it’s an irresistible pairing!
• Simple Mixed Greens: A light mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the chicken dish nicely.

Enjoy serving your delicious crockpot creation! These accompaniments will elevate your dining experience while leaving everyone asking for seconds.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Crockpot Herb Chicken and Veggies recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or planning ahead for lunch. You can easily prepare the dish in advance and store leftovers, ensuring that you have a wholesome meal ready whenever you need it.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Ensure to separate chicken and veggies if you prefer to keep them individually.

Freezing

• Portion the cooled chicken and veggies into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and contents for easier identification.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best quality, consume within 1-2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the microwave on medium power until heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
• Alternatively, reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs in Crockpot Herb Chicken and Veggies?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts; however, they may dry out if cooked too long. Adjust cooking time accordingly so they stay juicy.

How do I make Crockpot Herb Chicken and Veggies gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just ensure that your chicken broth is labeled gluten-free when purchasing, and you’re all set!

Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to include your favorite vegetables like green beans or bell peppers. Just make sure they have similar cooking times as the other ingredients.

What can I serve with Crockpot Herb Chicken and Veggies?

This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices. Rice or quinoa are also excellent options!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Crockpot Herb Chicken and Veggies recipe as much as I do! Its comforting flavors and ease of preparation make it a weeknight favorite. This dish not only warms your heart but also fills your home with delightful aromas. Don’t hesitate to share your experience or any variations you try—I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Happy cooking!