Crockpot Chicken Potatoes Green Beans: Easy One-Pot Recipe

Crockpot Chicken Potatoes Green Beans: the ultimate weeknight dinner solution! Imagine coming home after a long day to the comforting aroma of tender chicken, perfectly cooked potatoes, and crisp-tender green beans, all simmered to perfection in a flavorful broth. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, ready to nourish you and your family without any fuss.

Slow cooking, the technique behind this delightful dish, has been around for centuries, evolving from simple stews cooked over open fires to the modern convenience of the electric crockpot. While the exact origins of combining these specific ingredients are hard to pinpoint, the concept of a one-pot meal, designed for ease and maximum flavor, is a culinary tradition found in cultures worldwide. It speaks to our innate desire for simple, wholesome food that brings people together.

What makes Crockpot Chicken Potatoes Green Beans so universally loved? It’s the trifecta of taste, texture, and unparalleled convenience. The chicken becomes incredibly moist and flavorful, infused with the savory essence of the broth and vegetables. The potatoes offer a creamy, comforting starchiness, while the green beans provide a delightful snap and a burst of freshness. And the best part? You simply toss everything into the crockpot, set it, and forget it! This recipe is a lifesaver for busy families, offering a healthy, home-cooked meal without requiring hours in the kitchen. Get ready to experience the magic of slow cooking with this incredibly easy and delicious recipe!

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1.5 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (10.75 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 (10.75 oz) can condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Preparing the Ingredients:

1. First, let’s get our vegetables prepped. Wash the Yukon Gold potatoes thoroughly. I prefer Yukon Golds because they hold their shape well during slow cooking and have a naturally buttery flavor, but you can substitute with red potatoes if you prefer. Cut the potatoes into 1-inch cubes. Try to keep the cubes relatively uniform in size so they cook evenly.
2. Next, trim the green beans. This simply means snapping off the ends. You can leave them whole or cut them in half, depending on your preference. I usually cut them in half if they are particularly long.
3. Now, let’s chop the onion. Dice it into small pieces. Don’t worry about being too precise; the slow cooker will soften them up nicely.
4. Mince the garlic. Fresh garlic adds a wonderful depth of flavor to this dish. If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can substitute with 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, but fresh is always best!
5. Finally, if you’re using fresh parsley for garnish, go ahead and chop it now and set it aside.

Searing the Chicken (Optional but Recommended):

While this step is optional, I highly recommend searing the chicken breasts before adding them to the crockpot. Searing adds a beautiful color and locks in the juices, resulting in a more flavorful and tender chicken. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step, but trust me, it’s worth the extra few minutes!

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; it’s your chance to build flavor.
3. Carefully place the chicken breasts in the hot skillet. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; you may need to sear them in batches.
4. Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown. You’re not trying to cook the chicken all the way through at this point, just sear the outside.
5. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Assembling the Crockpot:

1. Now it’s time to assemble our crockpot masterpiece! Start by placing the chopped onion in the bottom of the crockpot. This will create a flavorful base for the rest of the ingredients.
2. Next, add the cubed potatoes on top of the onions.
3. Then, add the green beans.
4. Place the seared chicken breasts (or unseared, if you skipped that step) on top of the vegetables.
5. In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, minced garlic, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Make sure everything is well combined.
6. Pour the soup mixture over the chicken and vegetables in the crockpot. Ensure that the chicken is mostly submerged in the liquid.

Cooking Process:

1. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The cooking time will vary depending on your crockpot, so it’s important to check the chicken for doneness.
2. To check if the chicken is done, use a meat thermometer to ensure that it has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The potatoes should also be tender and easily pierced with a fork.
3. If the chicken is not yet cooked through, continue cooking for another 30 minutes to an hour, and then check again.
4. Once the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender, turn off the crockpot and let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together even more.

Serving and Enjoying:

1. Carefully remove the chicken breasts from the crockpot and place them on a cutting board.
2. Shred the chicken using two forks. It should be very tender and easy to shred.
3. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir it into the vegetables and sauce.
4. Serve the crockpot chicken, potatoes, and green beans hot.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.

Tips and Variations:

• Add more vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to this dish, such as carrots, celery, or mushrooms. Just add them along with the potatoes and green beans.
• Use different herbs: Experiment with different herbs to customize the flavor of this dish. Italian seasoning, oregano, or basil would all be delicious additions.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soup mixture for a little bit of heat.
• Add bacon: Cooked and crumbled bacon would be a delicious addition to this dish. Stir it in before serving.
• Use bone-in chicken: You can also use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks for this recipe. Just increase the cooking time accordingly.
• Thicken the sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Make it dairy-free: Use dairy-free cream of mushroom soup and dairy-free cream of chicken soup, and substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth.

Storage Instructions:

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Freezing Instructions:

This dish can also be frozen for longer storage. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Nutritional Information (approximate, per serving):

Calories: 400-500

Protein: 40-50g

Fat: 20-30g

Carbohydrates: 20-30g

Enjoy this easy and delicious crockpot chicken, potatoes, and green beans! It’s a perfect weeknight meal that the whole family will love.

Conclusion:

This Crockpot Chicken, Potatoes, and Green Beans recipe is truly a game-changer, and I wholeheartedly believe it deserves a spot in your regular meal rotation. Why? Because it delivers incredible flavor with minimal effort. We’re talking tender, juicy chicken infused with the savory goodness of herbs and spices, perfectly cooked potatoes that practically melt in your mouth, and vibrant green beans that retain a delightful crisp-tender texture – all achieved with the magic of your slow cooker. It’s a complete, satisfying, and healthy meal that practically cooks itself!

But the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! While I’ve shared my go-to version, feel free to experiment and make it your own. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. If you’re a fan of garlic, don’t hesitate to throw in a few extra cloves. Want to add more vegetables? Carrots, onions, or even bell peppers would be fantastic additions.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Classic Comfort: Serve it as is for a hearty and comforting meal. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a touch of elegance.
* Lemon Herb Twist: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a generous sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano during the last hour of cooking for a bright and flavorful twist.
* Creamy Delight: Stir in a can of cream of mushroom soup or cream of chicken soup during the last 30 minutes for a richer, creamier sauce.
* Mediterranean Flair: Add Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and a sprinkle of feta cheese after cooking for a Mediterranean-inspired dish.
* Make it a Bowl: Shred the chicken and serve it over rice or quinoa for a complete and balanced bowl meal.

This recipe is not just about convenience; it’s about creating a delicious and nourishing meal that your whole family will love. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or even a relaxed weekend dinner. The slow cooker does all the work, leaving you free to focus on other things. Plus, the leftovers (if there are any!) are just as delicious the next day.

I truly believe that once you try this Crockpot Chicken, Potatoes, and Green Beans recipe, you’ll be hooked. It’s a simple, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.

So, what are you waiting for? Dust off your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience the magic of effortless cooking. I’m confident that you’ll be amazed by the results.

And most importantly, I’d love to hear about your experience! Did you try the recipe as is, or did you add your own unique twist? What did your family think? Share your photos, comments, and variations in the comments section below. I can’t wait to see what you create! Happy cooking!

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