This recipe is all about tender chicken, hearty potatoes, and crunchy green beans, all cooked together in a cozy crockpot. It’s easy and perfect for busy days!
I love how all the flavors blend together while it simmers away. Plus, there’s nothing like coming home to a warm meal waiting for you! It’s like a hug in a bowl! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in skinless thighs are flavorful and juicy, making them my go-to for crockpot meals. However, you can use chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option, but they might dry out, so keep an eye on the cooking time.
Baby Potatoes: These are perfect since they hold their shape during cooking. If you can’t find baby potatoes, regular potatoes work too; just cut them into smaller pieces to ensure even cooking.
Green Beans: Fresh green beans add bright flavor and crunch. Frozen green beans can be a great substitute; there’s no need to thaw them before adding them to the crockpot.
Herbs: Thyme and rosemary bring warmth to the dish. If you don’t have them, Italian seasoning can be a good substitute; it gives a nice flavor balance too.
Garlic: Fresh is best for that punch of flavor, but garlic powder works in a pinch! Use about 1/4 tsp of garlic powder for every clove if needed.
How Do You Get the Chicken Just Right in a Crockpot?
Cooking chicken in a crockpot is all about timing to ensure it’s juicy and tender. The key is to layer the ingredients correctly. Start with potatoes and onions at the bottom. The moisture from the chicken and broth keeps everything moist.
- Season the chicken well for full flavor before layering it on top.
- Don’t open the lid too often while cooking; each time you do, you can lose heat and extend the cooking time.
- Using a meat thermometer helps; chicken is done at 165°F (75°C).
How to Make Crockpot Chicken, Potatoes, and Green Beans
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 cups baby potatoes, halved (or quartered if large)
- 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional for Thickening Sauce:
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious crockpot meal takes about 15 minutes to prepare and either 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high to cook. Perfect for a busy day when you want a hearty dinner waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Veggies:
Start by getting your vegetables ready. Halve the baby potatoes and trim the ends off the green beans. Next, slice the onion and mince the garlic. This will help everything cook evenly and add lots of flavor!
2. Layer the Ingredients in the Crockpot:
Grab your 6-quart crockpot and begin layering. Place the halved baby potatoes at the bottom, followed by the sliced onion. This will create a nice base for the chicken.
3. Season and Add the Chicken:
Take your seasoned chicken thighs and sprinkle them with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary. Place the seasoned chicken right on top of the onions. This way, the flavors will blend beautifully as it cooks!
4. Add Garlic and Broth:
Sprinkle the minced garlic around the chicken and potatoes. Then, pour the chicken broth and drizzle the olive oil over everything. This will keep the chicken moist and flavorful while it cooks.
5. Cook It Up:
Put the lid on the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. You want the chicken cooked through and the potatoes tender. Trust me, your home will smell amazing!
6. Add the Green Beans:
With about 30 minutes left to cook, toss the trimmed green beans on top of everything. They’ll steam beautifully and stay nice and bright green.
7. Thicken the Sauce (Optional):
If you’d like a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Stir it into the crockpot about 15 minutes before the cooking time is up. Leave the lid off for the last 15 minutes to allow it to thicken up.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Once everything is cooked, serve the chicken with the potatoes and green beans. Drizzle some of the tasty sauce over the top if you like. Enjoy your hearty and wholesome meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Thighs in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken thighs! Just ensure they are cooked for a little longer—about 1-2 hours extra on low or 30-60 minutes extra on high. It’s best to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.
What Can I Substitute for Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth, vegetable broth works well as a substitute, or you can use water and add a little seasoning to enhance the flavor. For a richer taste, consider adding a splash of white wine along with water.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just keep in mind that different vegetables may require slight adjustments in cooking time, so add firmer vegetables like carrots earlier in the cooking process.
