Introduction
If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful meal that requires minimal effort, this slow cooker chicken and vegetable dish is perfect for you. Combining tender chicken breasts, fresh green beans, and creamy Yukon Gold potatoes, all infused with the deliciousness of Italian dressing, this recipe is sure to become a weeknight favorite. With just a few simple ingredients, you can set it and forget it, allowing the slow cooker to bring all the flavors together wonderfully.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1. Medium onion, sliced
2. 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
3. 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
4. 1.5 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into 1-inch cubes
5. 1 packet (1 ounce) Italian dressing mix
6. 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low or 4-6 hours on high
Total Time: 6-8 hours 15 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6 people
This simple and satisfying dish not only saves time but also delivers a warm and comforting meal that the whole family will love. Enjoy the slow-cooked goodness!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Place the sliced onion at the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker. This will create a flavorful base for the chicken and vegetables.
Step 2: Arrange the Chicken
Arrange the chicken breasts on top of the onion layer. Make sure they are evenly spaced to ensure even cooking.
Step 3: Add Vegetables
Add the fresh green beans on one side of the slow cooker and the cubed Yukon Gold potatoes on the other side. This way, each ingredient will cook properly without crowding.
Step 4: Season the Dish
Sprinkle the Italian dressing mix evenly over the chicken, green beans, and potatoes. This will infuse all the ingredients with flavor.
Step 5: Add Butter
Drizzle the melted butter over all the ingredients in the slow cooker. This will add richness and help with cooking the dish.
Step 6: Cooking Time
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-6 hours. Check that the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender before proceeding.
Step 7: Serve the Dish
Once cooked, stir the ingredients gently to combine them before serving. This will mix the flavors together beautifully.
Notes
Cooking Time Variations
Cooking times may vary based on the specific slow cooker used, so adjust accordingly based on the doneness of the chicken and tenderness of the vegetables.
Alternative Vegetables
Feel free to substitute the green beans with other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers if desired.
Make Ahead
This dish can be prepared in advance. Assemble all ingredients in the slow cooker and store in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
Leftovers Storage
Leftover chicken and vegetables can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Cook techniques
Layering Ingredients
When using a slow cooker, it’s important to layer your ingredients properly. Start with denser items like onions at the bottom, as they take longer to cook, followed by chicken, and add vegetables like green beans and potatoes on top.
Using a Slow Cooker
Slow cooking allows flavors to meld and intensify. Cooking on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-6 hours ensures that the chicken remains tender and the vegetables are cooked to perfection.
Seasoning Distribution
Sprinkling the Italian dressing mix evenly across all the ingredients helps to ensure that every bite is flavorful. This also allows the seasoning to penetrate the chicken and vegetables during cooking.
Melting Butter
Drizzling melted butter over the food before cooking enhances the richness of the dish. It helps to create a savory sauce as the ingredients cook together.
Stirring Before Serving
Gently stir the ingredients after cooking to combine the flavors and distribute the seasoning evenly. This not only improves taste but also presentation.
FAQ
Can I use other cuts of chicken instead of breasts?
Yes, you can use thighs or drumsticks. Just ensure they are boneless and skinless for even cooking.
What if I don’t have Yukon Gold potatoes?
You can substitute with any type of potatoes, such as red or russet. Just remember that cooking times may vary slightly.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just chop them into similar sizes for even cooking.
Is it possible to prepare this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients the night before and store them in the fridge. Just add them to the slow cooker in the morning before cooking.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the dish for longer storage, though some vegetables may change in texture.
Conclusion
This slow cooker recipe with chicken, green beans, potatoes, and Italian dressing mix is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings together tender chicken and hearty vegetables in a delightful way. The use of melted butter and spices enhances the overall taste, making it a comforting meal perfect for busy days.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chicken and Vegetable Casserole
Combine shredded cooked chicken with mixed vegetables and creamy sauce, topped with breadcrumbs.
Italian Chicken Skewers
Marinate chunks of chicken breast in Italian dressing, skewer with bell peppers and onions, then grill.
Green Bean and Potato Salad
Mix boiled green beans and cubed potatoes with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing side dish.
Slow Cooker Beef and Potatoes
Replace chicken with beef chuck, add carrots, and season with beef broth and Italian herbs for a hearty meal.
Lemon Garlic Chicken
Add lemon juice and garlic to the chicken for a zesty twist, served alongside roasted vegetables.
Vegetable Stir Fry
Utilize leftover vegetables in a quick stir fry with soy sauce and chicken strips for a healthy dish.
Creamy Potato Soup
Blend cooked potatoes with broth, cream, and seasonings for a comforting soup, topped with crispy bacon.
