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Introduction
Slow cooker meals are the perfect solution for busy days, allowing you to enjoy a delicious home-cooked dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. This herbed chicken breast recipe infuses tender chicken with aromatic herbs, creating a flavorful dish that’s both easy to prepare and savory.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
800 g boneless, skinless chicken breasts
50 ml olive oil
5 cloves garlic, minced
10 g dried thyme
10 g dried rosemary
5 g dried oregano
5 g paprika
5 g salt
3 g black pepper
250 ml chicken broth
1 lemon, sliced
Prep Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 3 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions
1. Begin by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, thyme, rosemary, oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the herb mixture evenly over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated.
4. Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the slow cooker in a single layer.
5. Add chicken broth and lemon slices around the chicken in the slow cooker.
6. Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
7. Once ready, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
8. Serve the chicken warm, drizzled with a bit of the cooking broth and garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
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Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Chicken Breasts
Begin by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Step 2: Mix Herb Mixture
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Step 3: Coat Chicken with Herbs
Rub the herb mixture evenly over the chicken breasts, ensuring that each breast is well coated with the flavors.
Step 4: Arrange in Slow Cooker
Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the slow cooker in a single layer for even cooking.
Step 5: Add Broth and Lemon
Pour the chicken broth around the chicken and add the lemon slices on top and in between the chicken.
Step 6: Cook Chicken
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Step 7: Rest and Slice
Once the chicken is ready, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Step 8: Serve
Serve the chicken warm, drizzled with some of the cooking broth, and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
Storage
Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions
This herbed chicken pairs beautifully with rice, mashed potatoes, or a side salad for a complete meal.
Flavor Enhancements
Feel free to adjust the herbs according to your preference, or add vegetables such as carrots and potatoes to the slow cooker for a one-pot meal.
Cooking Time Adjustment
Cooking times may vary based on the size of the chicken breasts; ensure the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F) for safety.
Storage Instructions
Refrigeration
Allow the chicken to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing
If you want to store it for a longer period, freeze the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2-3 months. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator if frozen, then warm in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the herbed chicken breast with a side of steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or green beans, for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes. For a lighter option, serve atop a fresh salad with a squeeze of lemon. The flavorful broth can be drizzled over the top for added taste.
Nutritional Information
Each serving (approximately 200 g) of herbed chicken breast contains roughly:
– Calories: 360
– Protein: 55 g
– Total Fat: 16 g
– Saturated Fat: 2.2 g
– Carbohydrates: 2 g
– Fiber: 0 g
– Sugars: 0 g
– Sodium: 650 mg
Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredient brands and modifications.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have certain ingredients on hand, here are some alternatives:
– Olive oil: Can be replaced with avocado oil or melted coconut oil.
– Garlic: Use garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon) as a substitute, though fresh garlic will provide a richer flavor.
– Herbs: Feel free to experiment with fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, and oregano if available; use about three times the amount fresh as dried.
– Chicken broth: Vegetable broth or water can be used in place of chicken broth, though it may slightly alter the flavor.
– Paprika: Smoked paprika can be used for a deeper, smoky flavor.
– Lemon: If unavailable, a tablespoon of vinegar (such as apple cider or balsamic) can add a tangy touch.
Cook techniques
Patting the Chicken Dry
Ensure the chicken breasts are patted dry with paper towels before seasoning. This step helps the herb mixture adhere better and promotes even cooking.
Mixing the Herb Rub
Combine olive oil, minced garlic, and dried herbs in a small bowl. This mixture not only adds flavor but also keeps the chicken moist during the slow cooking process.
Even Coating
Rub the herb mixture evenly over the chicken breasts. Make sure to cover all surfaces for maximum flavor infusion.
Layering in the Slow Cooker
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer in the slow cooker. This ensures even cooking and prevents steaming, which can happen if they are crowded.
Adding Liquid Ingredients
Pour chicken broth and place lemon slices around the chicken. The broth provides moisture while the lemon adds a zesty flavor to the dish.
Cooking Time
Cook on low for 3-4 hours. This low and slow method allows the flavors to blend and results in tender, juicy chicken.
Resting the Chicken
Once the chicken is done cooking, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist final product.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
For best results, it’s recommended to thaw chicken breasts before cooking. However, if using frozen, increase the cooking time by about 1 to 2 hours.
What herbs can I substitute?
You can substitute fresh herbs for dried ones; use three times the amount. Other herbs like basil or parsley can also work well in place of thyme or oregano.
Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?
Yes, vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers can be added. Just ensure they are cut into uniform sizes to cook evenly alongside the chicken.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Is the chicken breast always tender in a slow cooker?
Yes, cooking on low heat for an extended period usually results in tender chicken breast. However, overcooking can lead to dryness, so keep an eye on cooking time.
Can I adjust the seasoning?
Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the salt, pepper, and herbs according to your taste preferences.
Conclusion
Enjoying a savory, well-seasoned meal doesn’t have to be time-consuming. This herbed chicken breast recipe not only delivers on flavor but also allows you to focus on your day while it cooks slowly. With tender, aromatic chicken prepared effortlessly in a slow cooker, it’s a wholesome choice for any busy family. Whether served alone or with your favorite sides, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken
Combine the classic taste of lemon and garlic with your chicken for a zesty alternative.
Herbed Chicken and Vegetables
Add your favorite seasonal vegetables, such as carrots and potatoes, to create a complete meal in one pot.
Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken
Incorporate olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist that enhances the flavor profile.
Smoky Chipotle Chicken
For a spicier variation, include chipotle peppers in adobo sauce along with the herbs for a smoky kick.
Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken
A sweet and tangy blend of honey and Dijon mustard can be drizzled over the chicken for an unexpected flavor combination.
Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos
Shred the cooked chicken and serve it in taco shells with fresh veggies, cheese, and salsa for a fun, interactive meal.
Italian Herb Chicken with Pasta
Serve the herbed chicken over pasta for a comforting and hearty Italian-inspired dish, drizzled with a light olive oil sauce.
