slow cooker chicken thighs green beans and potatoes

slow cooker chicken thighs green beans and potatoes

Are you ready to whip up a meal that’s both delicious adn easy? I’m talking about my tasty slow cooker chicken thighs with green beans and potatoes! Imagine coming home to a warm, hearty dish that practically cooks itself—all while filling your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. Sounds great, right? Let’s dive in and get cooking!

Cook Time: 240
Prep Time: 20
Yields: 8
Calories: 999

Simple Ingredients for Delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs with Green Beans and Potatoes

When it comes to creating a comforting meal, this slow cooker chicken thighs with green beans and potatoes recipe is a fantastic choice. The good news? It requires just a handful of simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 1 pound small red potatoes: cut them into 1-inch pieces for even cooking.
  • 2 pounds fresh green beans: Trim the ends to get rid of the tough bits.
  • 2 teaspoons salt: Adjust to taste — we want those flavors to sing!
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: For a hint of warmth and flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Spice it up if you like a little kick.
  • 6 slices bacon: This will add a smoky depth that you’ll love.
  • 1 onion: Diced for sweetness and added flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons minced garlic: A must-have for that aromatic touch.
  • 2 cups chicken broth: This will keep the chicken moist and add richness.
  • 2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken thighs: These are perfect for slow cooking; thay remain juicy and tender.
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika: adds a lovely colour and flavor.
  • 1/2 onion: Sliced for layering with the chicken.

Gather these ingredients, and you’re ready to create a meal that’s not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor.The combination of the tender chicken, vibrant green beans, and hearty potatoes ensure that everyone at the table will be satisfied.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfectly Cooked Slow cooker Chicken Thighs

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process for this delicious slow cooker chicken thighs with green beans and potatoes. Follow these steps,and you’ll be on your way to a fantastic meal:

  1. Prep Your Slow Cooker: Start by setting your slow cooker to the High setting. This will help everything cook evenly.
  1. layer the Vegetables: Place the cut red potatoes in the bottom of the slow cooker. this forms a solid base.Next,add the trimmed green beans on top.
  1. Season the Vegetables: Sprinkle the salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them, over the veggies. Give them a gentle toss to ensure even seasoning.
  1. Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet, cook the bacon slices over medium-high heat for about 10 minutes, or until evenly browned. Once done, drain them on paper towels and crumble them up. Set aside.
  1. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 to 5 minutes.Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds before removing the skillet from heat.This step is key for building flavors.
  1. Combine Everything: Spread the cooked onion and garlic mixture over the green beans. Pour the chicken broth over the entire mixture, making sure everything is well incorporated.
  1. Prepare the Chicken: On a large sheet of foil (around 12×24 inches), lay down the chicken thighs. Season them lightly with the remaining salt, pepper, and paprika. Add the sliced onion on top of the chicken.
  1. Seal It Up: Enclose the chicken and onions in the foil, pinching the edges to create a tight packet.
  1. Slow Cook: Place the foil packet on top of the green beans. Cover the slow cooker and let it cook for about 4 hours on High or 6 hours on Low. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is no longer pink at the center and the juices run clear.
  1. serve and enjoy: Once everything is cooked, carefully remove the foil packet and place the chicken on a serving platter. Garnish with the reserved bacon crumbles to add a delightful crunch.

This step-by-step guide will help you create a warm and inviting meal that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Enjoy the comforting flavors of this hearty dish!

 slow cooker chicken thighs green beans and potatoes

Serving and Storage Tips for Slow cooker Chicken Thighs with green Beans and Potatoes

Once you’ve created this delicious slow cooker chicken thighs with green beans and potatoes, you’ll want to know how to serve and store it properly. This dish is perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week ahead.

Serving Suggestions

  • Plating: For a stunning presentation, serve the chicken thighs over a bed of green beans and potatoes. Drizzle some of the flavorful cooking liquid from the slow cooker on top for extra moisture and flavor.
  • garnish: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or some extra crumbled bacon can elevate the dish visually and add a delightful crunch.
  • Pairings: This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or some crusty bread. The bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover juices!

Storage Instructions

For any leftovers, let the dish cool wholly before storing. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

  • Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container. It will last for about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. The flavors may deepen, making it even more delicious the next day!
  • Freezer: If you want to enjoy it later, you can freeze the dish. Just make sure to separate the chicken from the vegetables to prevent sogginess. Place it in a freezer-safe container, and it should be good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat thoroughly.

Reheating Tips

To reheat, you can use the microwave or the stovetop:

  • Microwave: Place your portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
  • Stovetop: This method is great for maintaining texture. Heat it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if necessary to keep it moist.

These storage and serving tips will help you enjoy your slow cooker chicken thighs with green beans and potatoes for days to come.

Recipe Notes and Troubleshooting for Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs

Cooking is a journey, and sometimes things don’t go as planned. Here are some helpful notes and troubleshooting tips to ensure your slow cooker chicken thighs with green beans and potatoes turn out perfectly every time.

Key Cooking Notes

  • Chicken Thighs: I reccommend using skinless, boneless chicken thighs for a tender result. If you prefer bone-in thighs, adjust the cooking time as they may take a little longer.
  • Vegetable Tenderness: If you like your vegetables a bit firmer, you can add them halfway through the cooking time. This way, they won’t become too soft.
  • flavor Boost: Feel free to experiment with seasonings. Adding a splash of soy sauce or a tablespoon of honey can create an exciting flavor twist.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

  • Too Much Liquid: If you find that there’s too much liquid once the dish is done, you can remove the lid and let it simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes uncovered to help reduce it.
  • Chicken Not Cooked Through: If your chicken isn’t fully cooked after 4 hours, check the temperature using an instant-read thermometer. It should read at least 165°F (74°C). If necessary, continue cooking until it reaches this temperature.
  • Flavor Not Strong Enough: If the dish tastes a bit bland, don’t hesitate to adjust the seasoning. Add more salt or pepper gradually, or finish it off with a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright flavor boost.

With these tips and notes, you’re well-prepared to tackle any challenges and make the most of your slow cooker chicken thighs with green beans and potatoes. Enjoy the cooking process, and happy eating!