Hello there, food enthusiasts! Are you craving some juicy and succulent chicken dishes that will melt in your mouth? Well, slow cooking your chicken is the way to go! Not only does it produce tender and flavorful meat, but it’s also an effortless method of cooking. All you need to do is toss your ingredients into a slow cooker, set the timer, and let the magic happen. In this article, we’ll be sharing 10 mouth-watering slow cook chicken recipes that you need to try today!
Whether you’re a busy professional, a college student, a mom on-the-go, or simply someone who enjoys a good meal, these recipes are perfect for you. From zesty lemon garlic chicken, creamy chicken and mushroom stroganoff, to comforting chicken and dumplings – these slow cook chicken dishes are perfect for both lunch and dinner. So, grab your apron, your slow cooker, and let’s start cooking!
Introduction to Slow Cook Chicken Recipes
Slow cooking chicken is a wonderful way to make a tasty and healthy meal with minimal effort. The process of slow cooking involves cooking food for an extended period of time, usually at a low temperature. Unlike other cooking methods, slow cooking allows for maximum retention of nutrients and flavors in the food. Chicken is a great meat to cook slowly because it absorbs flavors really well and stays moist even after hours of cooking. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of this cooking method, why chicken is a great meat for slow cooking and the equipment needed for preparing slow cook chicken recipes.
What Is Slow Cooking?
Slow cooking is a method of cooking that involves cooking food for an extended period of time at a low temperature. It is done using specialized kitchen equipment like a slow cooker or a crockpot. Slow cooking allows the food to retain most of its nutrients and flavors because it’s cooked for a longer time at low heat. It is a favorite method of cooking for those who want to enjoy a meal that’s flavorful, healthy, and requires minimal effort.
One of the benefits of this cooking method is that it allows you to prep your ingredients in the morning and come home to a fully cooked meal in the evening. Slow cooking is also great for busy people who don’t have much time to spend in the kitchen. It’s as easy as tossing ingredients into a pot, turning it on, and letting the slow cooker do the rest.
Why Slow Cook Chicken?
Chicken is a wonderful meat for slow cooking because it retains moisture well and absorbs flavors easily. Slow cooking chicken allows the meat to be tender and juicy without overcooking it. It is also a versatile protein that can be used in many different dishes such as stews, soups, curries, and casseroles. Additionally, chicken is a lean protein that is rich in nutrients such as protein, zinc, and iron.
Another advantage of slow cooking chicken is that it’s a budget-friendly option. Chicken is a cheaper meat compared to other meats such as beef, pork, and lamb. Also, by slow cooking chicken, you can utilize the cheaper cuts of chicken as they are often tougher and need the longer cooking time to become tender.
Equipment Needed for Slow Cooking Chicken
One of the best things about slow cooking chicken is that it requires minimal equipment. To start, you’ll need a slow cooker. Slow cookers come in different sizes and shapes, but the most common is a round or oval-shaped pot with a lid that is made of ceramic or porcelain.
Aside from a slow cooker, you will also need some basic kitchen equipment like a knife, cutting board, measuring cups and spoons, and a wooden spoon or spatula for stirring the ingredients. Some slow cooker recipes may require additional equipment like a blender or food processor, sauté pan or skillet, and a baking dish. However, most slow cook chicken recipes only require a few ingredients and basic kitchen equipment.
In conclusion, slow cooking chicken is a great way to create a delicious and healthy meal that requires minimal effort. The benefits of this cooking method include maximum retention of nutrients and flavors in the food, versatility, and budget-friendly options. So, grab a slow cooker and start preparing your favorite slow cook chicken recipes!
Easy and Delicious Slow Cook Chicken Recipes
Slow cookers are a kitchen tool that make cooking so much easier. They take the hard work out of preparing food and allow you to focus on other things. Slow cooked chicken recipes are a great way to get a tasty meal while keeping things low-key. There are so many dishes to choose from, but here are three easy and delicious slow cook chicken recipes that will definitely satisfy your cravings.
Classic Slow Cooker Chicken Curry
Curry is a classic and flavorful dish that is perfect for any day of the week. Making curry in the slow cooker is a genius idea because it allows the flavors to develop and come together while you go about your day. To make this chicken curry, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
- 1 can of coconut milk
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp. grated ginger
- 1 tsp. ground turmeric
- 1 tsp. ground cumin
- 1 tsp. ground coriander
- 1 tsp. paprika
- 1 tsp. garam masala
- 2 cups of chicken broth
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped, for garnish
The steps to make this chicken curry are straightforward:
- Place the chicken in the crockpot, and add in all the ingredients (except for the cilantro) into the pot.
- Stir the mixture until all the spices and ingredients are well combined.
- Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-8 hours.
- Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve with steamed rice or naan bread.
This curry is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat, but you can adjust the spice level according to your preference. This recipe is also great for leftovers and can be stored in the fridge for a few days so you can enjoy it again later.
BBQ Slow Cooked Chicken Wings
Chicken wings are an appetizer favorite, but they can take a long time to cook in the oven. Luckily, you can now make them in the slow cooker. The result is tender and juicy wings that are packed with flavor. Here are the ingredients you will need:
- 2 lbs. chicken wings
- 1 cup barbeque sauce
- 3 tbsp. honey
- 2 tbsp. soy sauce
- 1 tbsp. minced garlic
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Follow these steps to make slow cooked chicken wings:
- Mix together the barbeque sauce, honey, soy sauce, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Place the chicken wings in the slow cooker and pour the sauce mixture over them.
- Cook on low heat for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Once cooked, transfer the wings to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Broil the wings for 3-4 minutes until crispy, watching to make sure they don’t burn.
- Garnish with parsley or cilantro and serve immediately.
These BBQ slow cooked chicken wings are perfect for game days or any day that calls for an indulgent treat.
Slow Cooked Chicken and Rice Soup
Soup is perfect for a cold day, and this recipe is so easy to make in the slow cooker. The result is a comforting and hearty meal that everyone will love. Here are the ingredients you will need:
- 1 lb. chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup uncooked rice
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp. dried thyme
- 1 tsp. dried rosemary
- 1 tsp. dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley leaves, chopped, for garnish
Follow these steps to make slow cooked chicken and rice soup:
- Place the chicken in the slow cooker along with all the other ingredients, except for the parsley.
- Stir the mixture until everything is well combined.
- Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-8 hours.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
This slow cooked chicken and rice soup is so easy to make, yet it’s so delicious and satisfying. It’s perfect for a lazy afternoon or when you need some comfort food.
In conclusion, these slow cook chicken recipes are perfect for anyone who wants to have a delicious and nutritious meal without all the fuss. Whether it’s for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, these recipes are versatile and can be tweaked to match your taste preference. So, grab your slow cooker and get ready to enjoy these easy and delicious chicken recipes.
Healthy Slow Cook Chicken Recipes
Slow cook chicken recipes are perfect for those who want a healthy, easy-to-make, and delicious meal. You can simply put all the ingredients in the slow cooker, and let it do its magic. Here are three slow cook chicken recipes that are not only tasty, but also good for your health.
Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos
If you love Mexican food, then these slow cooker chicken tacos are perfect for you. This recipe is easy, healthy, and perfect for busy weeknights. Here are the ingredients you’ll need:
- 1 pound boneless and skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Put the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- Add all the other ingredients on top of the chicken, and mix well.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Shred the chicken with two forks, and mix well with the sauce.
- Serve in warm tortillas, and enjoy!
Serving suggestions: Garnish with sliced avocado, chopped cilantro, and lime wedges. Serve with a side of rice or beans.
Health benefits: This slow cooker chicken taco recipe is high in protein, fiber, and vitamins. Black beans are a great source of protein and fiber, which can help you feel fuller longer and stabilize your blood sugar levels. Salsa adds a burst of flavor without the added calories, and the spices are perfect for digestion and metabolism.
Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken
Looking for a recipe that’s light, but full of flavor? Try this slow cooker lemon garlic chicken recipe. Here are the ingredients:
- 4 boneless and skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken, and make sure that all sides are coated.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Remove the chicken from the slow cooker, and serve it with veggies or rice.
Serving suggestions: Garnish with a slice of lemon, and some fresh herbs. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or steamed rice.
Health benefits: This slow cooker lemon garlic chicken recipe is low in calories, but high in flavor. Lemon juice is a natural detox agent, and it can help maintain a healthy pH balance in your body. Garlic is also great for your immune system, digestion, and cardiovascular health. Chicken breasts are a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle building and strong bones.
Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore
This Italian-inspired slow cooker chicken cacciatore is a hearty and healthy recipe that’s perfect for chilly nights. Here are the ingredients you’ll need:
- 4 boneless and skinless chicken thighs
- 1 green pepper, sliced
- 1 red pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can crushed tomatoes
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Add the chicken, peppers, onion, garlic, and bay leaf into the slow cooker.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper, and stir well.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Remove the bay leaf, and serve the chicken cacciatore with a side of pasta or polenta.
Serving suggestions: Garnish with grated parmesan cheese and fresh herbs. Serve with a side of breadsticks or garlic bread.
Health benefits: This slow cooker chicken cacciatore recipe is packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. The peppers and onions are a great source of vitamin C, which can boost your immune system and improve your skin health. Tomatoes are also high in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that can help protect your cells from damage and lower your risk of chronic diseases.
Variations to Your Slow Cooked Chicken Recipes
Are you tired of the same old chicken recipes? Why not try out these tasty variations of slow cooked chicken that will surely spice up your mealtime?
Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki
If you’re a fan of Asian cuisine, then this recipe is perfect for you. Here are the ingredients you need:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
Instructions:
- Combine the teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, and cayenne pepper in a bowl.
- Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker and cover with the sauce mixture.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and serve with rice.
For serving suggestions, try adding some steamed broccoli or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
Slow Cooker Chicken Fajitas
If you’re in the mood for some Mexican flavor, give this recipe a try. Here are the ingredients you need:
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup salsa
- Tortilla shells
Instructions:
- Place the chicken, onion, and bell peppers in the slow cooker.
- Sprinkle with taco seasoning and pour the salsa over the top.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours.
- Serve with warm tortilla shells.
For serving suggestions, try adding some shredded cheese, sour cream, and guacamole for a delicious fajita feast.
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken
Satisfy your sweet and savory cravings with this delicious honey garlic chicken recipe. Here are the ingredients you need:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions:
- Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- Mix together the honey, soy sauce, ketchup, garlic, ginger, and cayenne pepper in a bowl.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours.
- Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred with two forks.
- Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir in the sauce until well-coated.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and serve over rice.
For serving suggestions, try adding some roasted vegetables or a side salad for a healthy and flavorful meal.
Give these slow cooked chicken recipes a try and discover a new favorite among these variations.
Tips for Slow Cook Chicken Recipes
Slow cook chicken recipes are perfect for those who want to enjoy a delicious meal without putting in too much effort. With a little bit of planning and preparation, anyone can create mouth-watering dishes that will leave their taste buds satisfied. Here are some tips for making the most out of your slow cook chicken recipes.
Marinade Before Slow Cooking
Marinading chicken is a great way to infuse it with flavor and make it extra juicy. To marinate chicken, simply mix together your choice of spices, herbs, and liquids, then coat the chicken pieces with the mixture and let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before cooking it. Some of the best marinades for chicken include barbecue, teriyaki, and lemon-garlic marinades.
The benefit of marinading chicken is that it helps to break down the proteins in the chicken, making it tender and flavorful. Additionally, the acid in the marinade helps to kill any bacteria that may be present on the chicken, ensuring that it is safe to eat.
Cooking Time and Temperature
One of the most important things to keep in mind when cooking chicken in a slow cooker is the cooking time and temperature. The ideal cooking temperature for chicken in a slow cooker is between 165 and 175 degrees Fahrenheit. At this temperature, the chicken will cook slowly and evenly, ensuring that it is fully cooked through and safe to eat.
The cooking time for chicken in a slow cooker will vary depending on the recipe and the size of the chicken pieces. As a general guideline, boneless chicken pieces will take around 4-6 hours to cook on low, while bone-in chicken pieces will take 6-8 hours. It is important to check the internal temperature of the chicken before serving, to ensure that it has reached at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Boneless or Bone-In Chicken?
The choice between boneless or bone-in chicken largely depends on personal preference and the recipe you are making. Boneless chicken is quicker to cook and easier to eat, while bone-in chicken tends to have more flavor and stays moist during cooking.
When using boneless chicken, it is important to ensure that it is not overcooked, as it can become dry and tough. On the other hand, bone-in chicken tends to take longer to cook, but it has a more intense flavor and stays tender and juicy.
In most cases, bone-in chicken is preferred for slow cooking recipes, as it tends to hold up better during the cooking process than boneless chicken.
By following these tips, anyone can create delicious slow cook chicken recipes that are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether you prefer boneless or bone-in chicken, using a marinade and cooking at the right temperature and time will ensure that your chicken turns out perfectly every time.
Enjoy These Delicious Slow Cook Chicken Recipes Today!
We hope you’ve found this list of slow cook chicken recipes helpful and inspiring. These recipes are not only easy to prepare but also mouth-watering and satisfying. We recommend trying out a few recipes to see which ones are your favorites. Experiment with different spice blends, vegetables, and herbs to make each recipe your own.
Thank you for taking the time to read through this article. We hope you’ve learned something new and useful. Make sure to bookmark our site and come back for more delicious recipes and cooking tips. Don’t forget to share these recipes with your friends and family so they can enjoy them too. Happy cooking!
FAQ
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts in these recipes?
Yes, most of these recipes will work well with chicken thighs instead of breasts. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
2. Can I use frozen chicken in these recipes?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken in most of these recipes. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
3. Can I make these recipes in a pressure cooker instead of a slow cooker?
Yes, you can use a pressure cooker instead of a slow cooker for some of these recipes. Just follow the instructions for your particular model.
4. Can I substitute other vegetables in these recipes?
Yes, you can substitute other vegetables if you prefer. Just make sure they are compatible with the cooking time and temperature.
5. Do these recipes freeze well?
Yes, most of these recipes freeze well. Just be sure to store them in an airtight container or freezer bag.
6. Can I use bone-in chicken in these recipes?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken in most of these recipes. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
7. How long do these recipes take to cook?
Each recipe will have its own cooking time, but most of them will take between 4-8 hours on low heat in a slow cooker.
8. Do I need to brown the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker?
It is not necessary to brown the chicken first, but it can add extra flavor and a crispy texture to the dish.
9. Can I use other meats in these recipes?
Yes, you can use other meats in these recipes if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time and temperature as needed.
10. Are these recipes gluten-free?
Most of these recipes are naturally gluten-free, but be sure to check the ingredients for any potential sources of gluten.
