Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooker Chicken and Beans Recipe
When you try this Slow Cooker Chicken and Beans recipe, you’ll quickly discover how easy it’s to whip up a hearty, flavorful meal.
I love that it requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for busy days. Just toss everything in the slow cooker, and let it do the work while you go about your day.
The combination of tender chicken, creamy beans, and aromatic herbs creates a comforting dish that warms the heart. Plus, the slow cooking process intensifies the flavors beautifully.
It’s a one-pot wonder that makes cleanup a breeze! Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting friends, this recipe never fails to impress.
Trust me, you’ll be coming back for more!
Ingredients of Slow Cooker Chicken and Beans
When it comes to making a delicious Slow Cooker Chicken and Beans dish, having the right ingredients on hand is key. This recipe isn’t only straightforward, but it also uses ingredients that can be easily found at your local grocery store.
So, if you’re ready to plunge into this cozy meal, let’s gather everything you’ll need to create a flavorful and comforting dinner. Here’s a handy list to keep you organized as you shop or rummage through your pantry.
Ingredients:
- 15 ounces pinto beans
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1 2/3 cups chicken stock (or water if you’re out)
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 4 celery ribs, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 3 large carrots, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 tablespoon parsley
Now, let’s talk a bit about these ingredients. Pinto beans are fantastic because they’re not only creamy and delicious but also packed with protein and fiber.
If you can’t find fresh basil, don’t sweat it; you can use dried basil instead, just reduce the amount a bit since dried herbs are more potent.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, switch up the veggies! Throw in some bell peppers or even a dash of spice if you like a kick. The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility, so feel free to make it your own.
After all, cooking should be fun, right? It’s all about experimenting and finding what you love! Plus, who doesn’t enjoy a recipe that’s as forgiving as a good friend?
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken and Beans
Alright, let’s explore how to make this hearty Slow Cooker Chicken and Beans dish. First things first, you’ll want to gather your ingredients because nobody wants to be halfway through cooking only to realize they forgot the sun-dried tomatoes—trust me, I’ve been there.
Start by spreading half of those 15 ounces of pinto beans across the bottom of your slow cooker. It’s like laying the foundation for a delicious flavor house. Now, season your 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts with some pepper and sea salt. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; it’s your chance to add a little personality to the chicken.
Next, heat up 2 teaspoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. When it’s hot and shimmering, toss in the chicken and brown it on both sides. You know, just enough to give it that lovely golden color.
Once your chicken looks like it’s ready for a photo shoot, take it off the skillet and place it right on top of the beans in your slow cooker. Now, remember those remaining beans? Sprinkle those on top of the chicken, and then pour in 1 2/3 cups of chicken stock. If you’re out of chicken stock, no worries—water works just fine.
Now, for the fun part. In the same skillet, you’ll want to sauté 1 cup of chopped onion, 4 chopped celery ribs, 4 minced garlic cloves, 1/4 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and 3 sliced large carrots. This is where the kitchen starts smelling amazing, and you’ll probably find yourself doing a little happy dance.
Once those veggies are soft and fragrant, pour them into the slow cooker along with 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil, 1 teaspoon of thyme, and 1 tablespoon of parsley. Give everything a gentle stir to combine, set your slow cooker to simmer, and let it work its magic for several hours.
You can go about your day while this delicious meal cooks itself. It’s like having a personal chef, minus the hefty bill. So, kick back, relax, and let the slow cooker do its thing.
Slow Cooker Chicken and Beans Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to mix things up with your Slow Cooker Chicken and Beans, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to contemplate.
For a different flavor, try using black beans or chickpeas instead of pinto beans. You can also swap out chicken breasts for thighs, which add a richer taste.
If you want a kick, toss in some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes. For added depth, consider using vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.
Fresh herbs like cilantro or oregano can replace basil, and if you’re short on sun-dried tomatoes, chopped bell peppers can work too.
Experimenting with these options can lead to a new favorite recipe you’ll love just as much!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Chicken and Beans
After exploring some tasty substitutions and variations for Slow Cooker Chicken and Beans, it’s time to think about what to serve alongside this hearty dish.
I love pairing it with a fresh green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette; it adds a nice crunch and balances the richness of the chicken and beans.
You could also serve some warm, crusty bread to soak up the savory broth—so satisfying!
If you’re looking for something a bit heartier, consider a side of quinoa or rice; they absorb the flavors beautifully.
Finally, roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers can bring in a pop of color and nutrients.
These sides create a delicious, well-rounded meal that everyone will enjoy!
Additional Tips & Notes
While cooking Slow Cooker Chicken and Beans can be straightforward, a few extra tips can enhance your experience.
First, don’t skip the browning step; it adds a depth of flavor you’ll love. If you want an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of lemon juice before serving.
I also recommend letting the dish rest for a few minutes after cooking; it allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can mash some beans before serving.
Finally, try to use fresh herbs whenever possible—they really elevate the dish. Enjoy your meal with some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce!
Happy cooking!