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 savory 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, with variations found in cultures worldwide. From hearty stews simmered over open fires to modern electric slow cookers, the principle remains the same: low and slow cooking unlocks incredible flavors and tenderizes even the toughest cuts of meat. While the exact origins of combining these specific ingredients are difficult to pinpoint, the concept of a one-pot meal featuring readily available vegetables and protein is a staple in many cuisines.

What makes crockpot chicken potatoes green beans so universally loved? It’s the perfect combination of simplicity and satisfaction. The ease of preparation – simply toss everything into the crockpot and let it work its magic – is a huge draw for busy individuals and families. But beyond the convenience, it’s the taste and texture that truly win people over. The chicken becomes incredibly moist and flavorful, the potatoes are creamy and melt-in-your-mouth, and the green beans retain a slight crispness that provides a delightful contrast. Plus, it’s a complete and balanced meal, packed with protein, carbohydrates, and essential vitamins. Get ready to discover your new favorite way to enjoy a healthy and delicious dinner!

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1.5 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth, low sodium
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• 2 tablespoons cold water (optional, for thickening)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Ingredients:

Okay, let’s get started! First things first, we need to prep all our ingredients. This makes the whole cooking process so much smoother.

1. Chicken: Take your chicken breasts and cut them into bite-sized cubes, about 1 inch each. This ensures they cook evenly in the crockpot and are easy to eat.
2. Potatoes: Peel those Yukon Gold potatoes (or any potato you prefer, really!) and chop them into similar-sized cubes as the chicken. Consistency is key!
3. Green Beans: Trim the ends off your fresh green beans. Nobody wants those tough ends in their dinner.
4. Onion and Garlic: Chop the onion into small pieces. Mince the garlic – you can use a garlic press if you have one, or just finely chop it with a knife.

Searing the Chicken (Optional but Recommended):

This step is optional, but I highly recommend it! Searing the chicken before adding it to the crockpot adds a beautiful color and locks in some extra flavor. Trust me, it’s worth the extra few minutes.

1. Heat the Oil: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You want the pan to be nice and hot before adding the chicken.
2. Sear the Chicken: Add the cubed chicken to the hot skillet in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the pan, or the chicken will steam instead of sear. You might need to do this in batches.
3. Brown the Chicken: Sear the chicken for about 2-3 minutes per side, until it’s nicely browned. It doesn’t need to be cooked through at this point, just browned on the outside.
4. Remove from Pan: Remove the seared chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Building the Crockpot Meal:

Now for the easy part – layering everything into the crockpot! This is where the magic happens.

1. Add Onions and Garlic: Place the chopped onion and minced garlic in the bottom of the crockpot. This will create a flavorful base for the rest of the ingredients.
2. Layer Potatoes: Add the cubed potatoes on top of the onions and garlic.
3. Add Chicken: Place the seared (or unseared) chicken on top of the potatoes.
4. Add Green Beans: Add the trimmed green beans on top of the chicken.
5. Seasoning: Sprinkle the dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper over the ingredients in the crockpot.
6. Pour in Broth: Pour the chicken broth over all the ingredients. Make sure the broth covers most of the ingredients, but it doesn’t need to completely submerge them.

Cooking Process:

Time to let the crockpot do its thing! This is the best part – you can just set it and forget it (almost!).

1. Cook on Low: Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours, or until the chicken and potatoes are tender.
2. Cook on High: Alternatively, you can cook on high heat for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken and potatoes are tender. Keep an eye on it if you choose this method, as it can cook faster.

Thickening the Sauce (Optional):

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can easily thicken it at the end of the cooking time. This step is totally optional, but it can really elevate the dish.

1. Make a Slurry: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until smooth. This is called a slurry.
2. Add to Crockpot: During the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir the slurry into the crockpot.
3. Stir and Cook: Stir well to combine and continue cooking for 30 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.

Serving:

Almost there! Now it’s time to serve up this delicious and comforting meal.

1. Check for Doneness: Before serving, make sure the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender. The internal temperature of the chicken should be 165°F (74°C).
2. Serve Hot: Serve the crockpot chicken, potatoes, and green beans hot.
3. Garnish: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
4. Enjoy!: Enjoy your delicious and easy crockpot meal!

Tips and Variations:

Here are a few extra tips and ideas to customize this recipe to your liking:

• Add Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the crockpot, such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers. Just add them along with the potatoes.
• Use Different Herbs: Experiment with different herbs, such as oregano, basil, or Italian seasoning.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Creamy Version: For a creamier dish, stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt at the end of the cooking time.
• Bacon: Add cooked and crumbled bacon for extra flavor.
• Wine: Add 1/2 cup of dry white wine when you add the chicken broth for a richer flavor.
• Tomato Paste: Add a tablespoon of tomato paste when you add the onions and garlic for a deeper, more savory flavor.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Add a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce for an umami boost.
• Bone-in Chicken: You can use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks instead of chicken breasts. This will add more flavor, but the cooking time may need to be adjusted.
• Sweet Potatoes: Substitute sweet potatoes for regular potatoes for a sweeter flavor.
• Frozen Green Beans: If you don’t have fresh green beans, you can use frozen green beans. Add them during the last hour of cooking.

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.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

• Calories: Approximately 350-450 per serving
• Protein: 30-40g
• Carbohydrates: 30-40g
• Fat: 10-20g

Enjoy this hearty and flavorful crockpot chicken, potatoes, and green beans! It’s a perfect weeknight meal that’s both easy to make and satisfying to eat.

Conclusion:

So, there you have it! This Crockpot Chicken, Potatoes, and Green Beans recipe is truly a game-changer for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. I genuinely believe it’s a must-try for anyone looking for a flavorful, healthy, and incredibly easy meal. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity – minimal prep time, maximum flavor payoff, and virtually no cleanup. What’s not to love?

I know what you might be thinking: “Another crockpot recipe? What makes this one special?” Well, it’s the perfect balance of tender chicken, perfectly cooked potatoes, and crisp-tender green beans, all infused with a savory, comforting broth. The flavors meld together beautifully during the slow cooking process, creating a dish that’s far more than the sum of its parts. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel good from the inside out.

But the best part? This recipe is incredibly versatile! Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize it to your liking. A sprinkle of dried rosemary or thyme adds a touch of earthy elegance, while a pinch of red pepper flakes brings a subtle kick. You could even add a splash of lemon juice for a brighter, more vibrant flavor.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Serve it as is for a complete and satisfying meal.
* For a creamier dish, stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt just before serving.
* Add other vegetables like carrots, onions, or celery for extra nutrients and flavor.
* If you’re watching your carbs, substitute sweet potatoes for regular potatoes.
* For a spicier version, add a diced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce.
* Serve over rice or quinoa for a heartier meal.
* Shred the chicken and use it in tacos, salads, or sandwiches.
* Add a can of drained and rinsed cannellini beans during the last hour of cooking for added protein and fiber.
* Consider adding a bay leaf to the crockpot for an extra layer of flavor. Remember to remove it before serving!
* If you prefer your green beans softer, add them at the beginning of the cooking process.

I truly encourage you to give this Crockpot Chicken, Potatoes, and Green Beans recipe a try. I’m confident that it will become a staple in your household, just as it has in mine. It’s the perfect solution for those days when you want a delicious, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Once you’ve tried it, I’d absolutely love to hear about your experience! Did you make any modifications? What did you think of the flavor? Share your photos and comments in the comments section below. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me to create even better recipes for you in the future. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to see what you create! Don’t forget to rate the recipe after you’ve tried it! Your rating helps others find this amazing and easy meal. Enjoy!