September 14, 2024
Italian Herb Crock Pot Chicken
By: Toya. L
These delicious chicken thighs are Slow cooked to perfection, the tender chicken is infused with a fragrant blend of different spices and herbs, and chicken broth creating a savory and aromatic dish. With minimal prep and the magic of the crockpot, this comforting meal brings the essence of Italian cuisine straight to your table. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner, this recipe is a delicious way to enjoy authentic Italian flavors with ease.” You will happy you tried this delicious chicken recipe.
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❤️What is there to love about Italian Herb Crock Pot Chicken❤️
- Effortless Cooking: Toss everything into the crockpot, set it, and forget it! It’s the perfect dish for busy days when you want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Rich Italian Flavors: The blend of herbs, garlic, and chicken broth brings authentic, bold Italian flavors to your table.
- Tender, Juicy Chicken: Slow cooking ensures the chicken is incredibly moist and tender, soaking up all the herb-infused goodness.
- Healthy and Wholesome: Made with fresh herbs and lean chicken, this recipe is a nutritious choice that doesn’t skimp on taste.
- Meal Prep: Make a large batch, and the leftovers are perfect for lunch or dinner throughout the week!
Italian Herb Crock Pot Chicken can be served with a side of Cauliflower mash, or Loaded Cauliflower Delicious Loaded Cauliflower Recipe .
Italian Herb Crock Pot Chicken Ingredients:
Italian Herb Crock Pot Chicken Instructions:
- Prepare the Crock Pot: Plug up the crock pot and pour the chicken broth in the crock pot.
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. Pour the olive oil over both sides of the chicken.
- Make the Seasoning Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the salt, thyme, oregano, garlic powder, lemon pepper, smoked paprika, and crushed red pepper. Shake or mix until well blended.
- Coat the Chicken: Pour the seasoning mixture over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Cook: Cover the crock pot with the lid and cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Serve: Serve the Italian Herb Crock Pot Chicken with a side of vegetables, cauliflower mash, or a fresh salad. Spoon some of the herb-infused juices from the crock pot over the chicken for added flavor.
Italian Herb Crock Pot Chicken
These delicious chicken thighs are Slow cooked to perfection, the tender chicken is infused with a fragrant blend of different spices and herbs, and chicken broth creating a savory and aromatic dish. With minimal prep and the magic of the crockpot, this comforting meal brings the essence of Italian cuisine straight to your table. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner, this recipe is a delicious way to enjoy authentic Italian flavors with ease." You will happy you tried this delicious chicken recipe.
Equipment
Ingredients
- 5 large Chicken Thighs
- 1/3 cup Chicken broth
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Thyme
- 1/2 tbsp Oregano
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
- 1 tsp Lemon pepper
- 1/2 tbsp Smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp Crushed red pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Crock Pot: Plug up the crock pot and pour the chicken broth in the crock pot.
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. Pour the olive oil over both sides of the chicken.
- Make the Seasoning Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the salt, thyme, oregano, garlic powder, lemon pepper, smoked paprika, and crushed red pepper. Shake or mix until well blended.
- Coat the Chicken: Pour the seasoning mixture over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Cook: Cover the crock pot with the lid and cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Serve: Serve the Italian Herb Crock Pot Chicken with a side of vegetables, cauliflower mash, or a fresh salad. Spoon some of the herb-infused juices from the crock pot over the chicken for added flavor.
Nutrition
Serving: 5gCalories: 438kcalCarbohydrates: 2.7gProtein: 17.7gFat: 39.9gSaturated Fat: 10.9gCholesterol: 110mgSodium: 634mgPotassium: 55mgFiber: 0.8gSugar: 1.3gCalcium: 17mgIron: 2mg
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
Tips for Italian Herb Crock Pot Chicken:
- Sear the Chicken First (Optional but Recommended): For extra flavor, sear the chicken in a hot skillet with olive oil before adding it to the crockpot. This creates a beautiful golden crust and locks in the juices.
- Use Fresh Herbs for Maximum Flavor: Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley will provide the best flavor. If you use dried herbs, reduce the amount by about half, as they are more concentrated.
- Don’t Overcook: While crockpots are great for tenderizing, overcooking chicken can make it dry. Cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 3-4 hours, and check for doneness with a meat thermometer (165°F/74°C at the thickest part).
- Layer the Ingredients Properly: Place the chicken at the bottom of the crockpot to ensure even cooking. Then add any vegetables, broth, and herbs on top.
- Don’t Lift the Lid: Try to avoid lifting the crockpot lid during cooking, as it lets out heat and can increase the cooking time.
- Broth Matters: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness of your dish. For a deeper flavor, you can also add a splash of white wine to the broth.
Flavor Variations:
- Lemon Garlic Herb Chicken: Add the juice and zest of two lemons along with extra garlic for a bright, tangy twist.
- Tomato Basil Chicken: Add 1 cup of diced tomatoes or a can of crushed tomatoes and a handful of fresh basil leaves. This adds a touch of sweetness and a classic Italian tomato flavor. You can also stir in a little tomato paste for added richness.
- Creamy Parmesan Herb Chicken: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Spicy Italian Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a little heat.
- Herb Dijon Chicken: Mix 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard with the olive oil and herbs before adding to the chicken.
- Herb Butter Chicken: Replace the olive oil with melted butter for a richer, more indulgent flavor.
- Tuscan Herb Chicken with Spinach: Add 1 cup of baby spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking. You can also stir in a little cream or chicken broth to create a light Tuscan-style sauce.
- Herb and Mushroom Chicken: Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms to the crockpot. The mushrooms will release their juices, creating a deeper, earthy flavor that complements the herbs perfectly.
- Mediterranean Herb Chicken: Add chopped kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and artichoke hearts to give the dish a Mediterranean flair. Finish with crumbled feta cheese for added richness.
Storing, freezing, thawing, and reheating instructions:
- Storing: In the Refrigerator: Allow the chicken to cool completely. Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in Portions: Place the cooked and cooled chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers. For easier meal prep, divide the chicken into portions.
- Thawing: Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight for best results.
- Reheating: Heat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist. Heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes. Microwave: Place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through. Oven: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs? Yes! Chicken breasts are a great alternative to chicken thighs. They tend to be juicier and are also flavorful, making them a popular choice for crockpot recipes. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as breasts may take a little lesser time to cook.
- Can I add vegetables to the crockpot with the chicken? Absolutely! Vegetables like carrots, or onions can be added at the start of cooking. Softer vegetables, like zucchini or spinach, should be added during the last hour to avoid overcooking.
- How can I prevent the chicken from drying out? To keep the chicken moist, avoid overcooking it, and use a bit of chicken broth or olive oil to maintain moisture. You can also add a small pat of butter to enhance juiciness.
- Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot? Yes, you can adapt this recipe for an Instant Pot. Cook the chicken on Manual/Pressure Cook for 10-12 minutes, with a quick release at the end. Be sure to add at least 1/2 cup of liquid to the Instant Pot.
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