This cozy dish combines tender chicken, hearty potatoes, and fresh green beans, all slow-cooked to perfection in a crockpot. It’s an easy, one-pot meal that the whole family will love!
Honestly, who doesn’t enjoy a warm, homey dinner with hardly any cleanup? I just toss everything in, set it, and relax while the magic happens. Perfect for busy days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs add flavor and moisture. If you prefer leaner meat, skinless thighs work fine. For a different option, you could use chicken breasts, but they may dry out faster.
Potatoes: I love using baby potatoes for their softness and ease. However, you can substitute with Yukon Gold or red potatoes, just cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
Green Beans: Fresh green beans bring a nice crunch. If they’re out of season, you can use frozen green beans. Just toss them in during the last hour of cooking for the best texture.
Herbs and Spices: Thyme and rosemary are classics here. If you don’t have them, Italian seasoning or herbs de Provence can work. Fresh herbs can also substitute; just use three times the amount.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken Stays Juicy in the Crockpot?
Keeping chicken juicy in a crockpot is all about layering and cooking time. Follow these simple steps to prevent dryness:
- Season the chicken well before cooking. This adds flavor and helps lock in moisture.
- Make sure it’s placed over the potatoes; the veggies will keep the chicken from sitting in too much liquid.
- Don’t lift the lid often! Each time you check, heat escapes, which can affect cooking time.
Cooking on low allows the chicken to become tender and juicy over time, and don’t forget to let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your meal!
How to Make Crockpot Chicken with Potatoes and Green Beans
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on or skinless)
- 1.5 pounds baby potatoes, halved
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This meal takes about 15 minutes to prepare and will cook in the crockpot for either 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. You’ll enjoy a delicious and hearty meal with minimal effort!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Begin by washing your baby potatoes well. Cut them in half. Next, take the fresh green beans, trim off the ends, and set them aside. Slice the onion into thin pieces and mince the garlic. All your ingredients should be ready to go!
2. Season the Chicken:
In a small bowl, combine the dried thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix it well, then rub this seasoning generously all over the chicken thighs. This step adds lots of flavor to your dish.
3. Layer in the Crockpot:
Start by placing the sliced onions at the bottom of your crockpot. Next, add the halved potatoes on top of the onions. Lay the seasoned chicken thighs right over the potatoes. This layering helps the flavors blend beautifully as they cook.
4. Add the Green Beans:
Now, arrange the trimmed green beans on top of the chicken and potatoes. Don’t worry if they pile up a bit; they’ll cook down as they heat. This will keep the green beans crisp and tasty!
5. Mix Broth and Olive Oil:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth and olive oil until it’s well mixed. Carefully pour this mixture over all the ingredients in the crockpot. This will keep everything moist and delicious while cooking.
6. Cook:
Cover the crockpot with its lid. Set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is fully cooked and the potatoes are tender. The aroma will fill your kitchen with delicious scents!
7. Serve:
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken and vegetables from the crockpot. Serve them hot on plates, garnished with fresh, chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your comforting meal!
Enjoy this easy and delightful crockpot dish with your loved ones!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you prefer. Just be aware they may cook faster, so check for doneness at about 3-3.5 hours on high or 5-6 hours on low. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption!
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Green Beans?
If you don’t have fresh green beans, you can use frozen green beans instead. Just add them to the crockpot in the last hour of cooking to prevent them from becoming too soft. Canned green beans can also work; just drain them well and add them in the final 30 minutes of cooking.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze portions for later use; just be sure to let everything cool completely before freezing. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes, feel free to add other vegetables such as carrots, peas, or corn! Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed based on the vegetables you choose. Root vegetables might need a longer cooking time, while softer vegetables like peas will cook quickly, so add them in the last hour.
