Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Chicken & Veggies

Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Chicken & Veggies is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings together tender chicken, rich garlic cream sauce, and a variety of wholesome vegetables. Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-pot meal is easy to prepare and yields a satisfying, well-rounded dinner that’s sure to become a family favorite. Simply set it in the slow cooker and let it work its magic!

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Ingredients
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
4. Cook Notes & Tips
5. Variations
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
7. Conclusion

Ingredients

For Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Chicken & Veggies

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 large carrots, sliced into rounds
• 1 pound baby potatoes, halved
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

1. Lightly grease the inside of a 6-quart slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray or olive oil.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and paprika.

Step 3: Assemble Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

1. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker.
2. Add the minced garlic, chopped onion, sliced carrots, and halved baby potatoes over the chicken.
3. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the vegetables are evenly distributed around the chicken.

Step 4: Cook

1. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

Step 5: Add the Creamy Sauce

1. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
2. Add the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce. Stir well to combine.
3. Add the fresh spinach and cover the slow cooker. Let cook for an additional 20-30 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the sauce has thickened.

Step 6: Serve

1. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. Serve the creamy garlic chicken and veggies hot, spooning the sauce over each portion.

Cook Notes & Tips

• Chicken: If using bone-in chicken, adjust the cooking time accordingly. Bone-in chicken may take slightly longer to cook.
• Vegetables: You can substitute baby potatoes with russet or Yukon gold potatoes, cut into chunks.
• Thicker Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, add a bit more cornstarch slurry until the desired consistency is reached.

Variations

• Mushroom Addition: Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms along with the carrots and potatoes for extra flavor.
• Lemon Garlic Chicken: Add the juice of one lemon to the chicken broth for a bright, zesty flavor.
• Low-Carb Version: Substitute the potatoes with cauliflower florets for a lower-carb alternative.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts. They are more forgiving and remain tender even if slightly overcooked.

2. How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftover creamy garlic chicken and veggies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.

3. Can I Freeze This Dish?

Yes, you can freeze this dish. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

4. What Can I Serve with This Dish?

This dish is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with crusty bread, rice, or a side salad for a more filling dinner.

Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Chicken & Veggies is a comforting, flavorful meal that’s easy to make and perfect for any day of the week. The creamy garlic sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked vegetables come together to create a dish that’s sure to be a family favorite. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or herbs, and enjoy a warm, satisfying meal that practically cooks itself.

Happy cooking!