Discover the Joy of Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies

Slow cooker meals are a weeknight lifesaver, offering tender, flavorful dishes with minimal hands-on work. And this Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies recipe is a prime example of the magic that can happen when you let your slow cooker do the heavy lifting. Juicy chicken tenders, tender carrots, and creamy potatoes come together in a rich garlic butter herb sauce for a meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.

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Ingredients for Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies

The key to this delicious slow cooker dish is using high-quality, fresh ingredients. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need:

• 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken tenders – Chicken tenders cook quickly and stay extra tender in the slow cooker.
• 1 lb baby carrots – Baby carrots add a pop of color and natural sweetness.
• 1 1/2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into wedges – Yukon Golds have a creamy, buttery texture that pairs perfectly with the garlic butter.
• 1/2 cup salted butter, melted – The star of the show! Melted butter forms the base of the rich, flavorful sauce.
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder) – Fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder works in a pinch.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – A simple seasoning to enhance the overall flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – Freshly cracked black pepper adds a subtle kick.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves (not ground) – Dried thyme lends an earthy, aromatic note.
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley – Fresh parsley would also work beautifully here.

How to Make Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies

Assembling this Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies dish couldn’t be easier. Just follow these simple steps:

1. 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.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, salt, pepper, thyme, and parsley until well combined.
3. Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the chicken and veggies.
4. 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.
5. Serve the Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies hot, spooning some of the flavorful sauce over each serving.

The slow cooker does all the work, leaving you with a delicious, one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed family dinners.

Flavor Enhancements and Variations

While this Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies recipe is already a winner, you can easily customize it to suit your taste buds:

• Add more veggies: Try including green beans, broccoli, or even cubed butternut squash for extra nutrition and color.
• Experiment with herbs and spices: Swap the thyme for rosemary or oregano, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Make it cheesy: Stir in some shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese towards the end of cooking for an extra creamy and indulgent twist.

The possibilities are endless when it comes to making this dish your own!

Serving Suggestions for Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies

This Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with:

• Crusty bread or rolls for sopping up the delicious garlic butter sauce
• A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete, well-balanced meal
• Garnishes like chopped fresh parsley, lemon wedges, or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra flavor and presentation

No matter how you choose to serve it, this slow cooker dish is sure to be a hit with the whole family.

Nutritional Benefits of Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies

In addition to being incredibly delicious, this Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies recipe is also packed with nutritional benefits:

• Lean protein from the chicken tenders – Chicken is a great source of lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscle.
• Fiber and vitamins from the vegetables – The carrots and potatoes provide a variety of essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber to support overall health.
• Healthy fats from the butter – While butter should be enjoyed in moderation, it contains beneficial fatty acids that are part of a balanced diet.

Each serving of this Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies dish provides a well-rounded and nutritious meal that can be part of a healthy lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies ahead of time?

To make Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies ahead of time, you can prepare the ingredients the night before. Chop the vegetables and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also mix the garlic butter sauce and keep it separate. In the morning, simply layer the chicken, veggies, and garlic butter mixture in the slow cooker, set it to cook, and enjoy a delicious meal when you return home. This method not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

What should I do if I want to add more protein to the recipe?

If you want to add more protein to your Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies, consider incorporating other meats such as diced turkey, pork, or even shrimp. Be mindful of the cooking times; for instance, shrimp cooks quickly, so you may want to add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Alternatively, you can increase the amount of chicken tenders or add cooked beans (like chickpeas) for a vegetarian protein boost. Just ensure that the total quantity remains balanced with the veggies to maintain the dish’s integrity.

Can I use frozen chicken tenders instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken tenders in this Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies recipe. However, it is important to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Cooking on the LOW setting may take an additional 1-2 hours, while the HIGH setting may require an extra 30 minutes to 1 hour. Always ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it is fully cooked. Using frozen chicken might also prevent the dish from becoming too dry, as the moisture will help keep it tender.

How can I adjust the recipe for a smaller slow cooker?

To adjust the Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies recipe for a smaller slow cooker, you can reduce the ingredient quantities proportionally. For example, if your slow cooker has a 2-quart capacity, consider using 1 pound of chicken, 1/2 pound of carrots, and 1 pound of potatoes. Additionally, you may want to decrease the cooking time slightly, especially if the slow cooker is at capacity. Always check for doneness, as smaller portions may cook faster. This way, you can still enjoy the same delicious flavors without overwhelming your smaller appliance.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Foil Packet Garlic Herb Chicken and Veggies
• Sheet Pan Pineapple Chicken
• One Pot Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak and Pasta

Give these delicious recipes a try for more easy, flavorful slow cooker and one-pot meals!

Conclusion

Slow cooker meals are a lifesaver for busy weeknights, and this Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies recipe is a true gem. With its tender chicken, soft veggies, and rich garlic butter sauce, it’s a dish that the whole family will love. Plus, the hands-off cooking method makes it a breeze to prepare. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delicious, hassle-free results!

Craving even more magical meals? Browse Amelia’s Pinterest boards for quick dinners, cozy bakes, and tons of flavorful inspiration.

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