Crockpot Garlic Herb Chicken & Potatoes Easy Meal

Are you ready to create a delicious meal without the stress? My Crockpot Garlic Herb Chicken & Potatoes recipe combines tender chicken breasts and flavorful baby potatoes, all cooked to perfection in your crockpot. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll have a wholesome dinner that the whole family will love. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that’s packed with taste and convenience!

Ingredients

List of Required Ingredients

- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

- 1.5 lbs baby potatoes, halved

- 4 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped

- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped

- 1 teaspoon dried oregano

- 1 teaspoon salt

- ½ teaspoon black pepper

- ½ cup chicken broth

- 2 tablespoons olive oil

- 1 tablespoon lemon juice

- Fresh parsley for garnish

For this dish, I use fresh ingredients for the best flavors. The chicken breasts must be boneless and skinless. This helps keep the meal lean and tender. Baby potatoes are perfect for this recipe. They cook well and add a nice texture.

Garlic adds a strong flavor, and I use four cloves. Fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme bring out the best taste. Dried oregano adds depth. I always add salt and black pepper to season the chicken well.

For liquids, chicken broth keeps the chicken moist. Olive oil adds richness, while lemon juice brightens the dish. Finally, fresh parsley gives a burst of color. This mix of ingredients makes the meal both tasty and pleasing to the eye.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation of Ingredients

To get started, rinse your baby potatoes well under cool water. This removes any dirt. Next, halve each potato. This helps them cook evenly. Set the halved potatoes aside. Now, take four cloves of garlic and mince them finely. You want the garlic pieces small for the best flavor. Then chop fresh rosemary and thyme. These herbs will add a lovely taste to your dish.

Seasoning the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix these together until well blended. This herb mixture is key for flavor. Now, take your chicken breasts and rub the seasoning all over them. Make sure each piece is coated well. This step makes the chicken juicy and tasty.

Layering and Adding Sauce

Now it’s time to layer everything in the crockpot. Place the halved baby potatoes at the bottom first. This helps them soak up all the flavors. Then, lay the seasoned chicken breasts on top of the potatoes. Next, we need to make the sauce. In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, olive oil, and lemon juice. Pour this sauce over the chicken and potatoes. This adds moisture and flavor during cooking.

Cooking Process

Cover the crockpot and set it to low heat. Cooking on low for 6-7 hours works best. You can also cook on high for 4 hours if you're short on time. Check for doneness by poking the chicken and potatoes with a fork. The chicken should be tender and the potatoes fork-tender. This means they are ready to eat.

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Tips for Perfect Chicken

To keep your chicken moist, add some chicken broth. This broth helps create steam in the crockpot. It keeps the chicken juicy and tender. Always check the chicken’s temperature. It should reach 165°F to be safe to eat. Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the breast. If it is not done, cook it a little longer.

Potato Preparation Techniques

When halving baby potatoes, use a sharp knife. Cut them in half lengthwise for even cooking. This will help them cook faster and absorb the sauce. For the best taste, choose waxy potatoes. Varieties like Yukon Gold work well. They hold their shape and are creamy when cooked.

Garnishing Suggestions

To enhance flavor, add freshly chopped parsley on top before serving. This adds color and freshness. You can also try lemon zest for a bright taste. A sprinkle of black pepper can add a nice kick. Arrange the chicken and potatoes nicely on the plate for a beautiful presentation.

Variations

Ingredient Swaps

You can switch up the recipe by adding fun veggies. Try adding carrots or green beans. They cook well in the crockpot and add color too. You can also change the spices. Use paprika for a smoky taste or basil for a fresh kick. This keeps the dish exciting and new.

Diet-Friendly Modifications

If you want a low-carb meal, skip the potatoes. Use cauliflower or zucchini instead. They soak up flavors nicely. For gluten-free options, this recipe is already safe. Just ensure your broth is gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy the meal.

Serving Variations

Serving this dish can be fun! Pair it with a fresh salad or crusty bread. A side of steamed broccoli also works great. You can serve it family-style on a big platter. This way, everyone can help themselves. It makes for a cozy dinner time.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

To store leftovers, place the chicken and potatoes in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh. You can refrigerate them for up to three days. Cooked chicken and potatoes remain safe to eat during this time. Be sure to cool the food to room temperature before sealing.

Freezing Instructions

For long-term storage, you can freeze the chicken and potatoes. Use freezer-safe bags or containers to prevent freezer burn. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw the food overnight in the fridge. You can also use the microwave for quick thawing.

Best Ways to Reheat

To maintain texture and flavor, reheat in the oven. Set the oven to 350°F and cover the dish with foil. This keeps moisture in. You can also reheat in the microwave. However, stir the food halfway through to ensure even heating. Always check that the chicken reaches 165°F before serving.

FAQs

Common Questions about the Recipe

What type of chicken works best in a crockpot? I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They cook evenly and stay moist. You can also use thighs for more flavor. Both types work well with the garlic and herbs.

Can I cook this recipe on high heat instead of low? Yes, you can cook on high heat. Set the crockpot for about 4 hours. The chicken will still be tender, but the flavors may meld less than if cooked low and slow.

Cooking Times and Adjustments

How long can I cook it if I double the recipe? If you double the recipe, keep the cook time the same. The chicken and potatoes will still cook well in 6-7 hours on low or about 4 hours on high.

What should I do if the chicken is dry? If the chicken turns out dry, it may have cooked too long. Always check for doneness earlier. Adding more broth can help keep moisture in the dish.

Ingredient-Specific FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts? Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just add an extra hour to the cooking time. Ensure they are fully cooked before serving.

How do I substitute fresh herbs with dried herbs? To substitute, use one-third the amount of dried herbs as fresh. For example, if the recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of fresh, use 1 teaspoon of dried.

This article covered everything you need to cook delicious chicken and potatoes in a crockpot. We discussed the key ingredients, from chicken breasts to fresh herbs. You learned step-by-step instructions and handy tips for tasty results. Plus, we explored fun variations to customize your dish. Finally, we went over storage and reheating methods to enjoy leftovers. With this guide, you can make a satisfying meal any time. Embrace your cooking skills and share this recipe with friends for a great experience!