Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my love for crockpot meals! They’re just the best when it comes to simplicity and affordability. I mean, who doesn’t want a delicious home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen? Crockpot meals are perfect for busy days when you want to come home to a warm, hearty dish that practically cooks itself. This particular recipe has become a staple in my house because it’s so easy to throw together. I remember the first time I made it; I came home from work, and the smell of savory chicken and veggies filled the air. Trust me, crockpot meals cheap like this one can save you both time and money while giving you that cozy, home-cooked vibe!
Ingredients List
- 1 pound of chicken breast: Boneless and skinless, this is the star of the dish. You can use fresh or frozen, but if using frozen, make sure to adjust the cooking time a bit.
- 2 cups of diced vegetables: I love using a mix of carrots, potatoes, and bell peppers for color and flavor. Just chop them up into bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly.
- 1 can of diced tomatoes: This adds a nice acidity and moisture to the dish. I usually go for the ones with herbs for an extra flavor boost!
- 1 cup of chicken broth: This helps the chicken stay juicy and adds more depth to the flavors. You can use low-sodium if you’re watching your salt intake.
- 1 tablespoon of garlic powder: It’s all about that flavor! Garlic powder gives a nice kick without the fuss of chopping fresh garlic.
- 1 teaspoon of salt: A little seasoning goes a long way in bringing out all those delicious flavors.
- 1 teaspoon of pepper: Just the right amount to give a hint of spice without overwhelming the dish.
How to Prepare Instructions
Alright, let’s get this deliciousness going! Preparing this meal is a breeze, and I promise you’ll feel like a kitchen pro in no time. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a cozy dinner waiting for you at the end of the day!
Step-by-step Cooking Process
- First, grab your trusty crockpot and place the 1 pound of chicken breast at the bottom. Don’t worry about cutting it—just lay it in whole. It’ll get super tender as it cooks!
- Next, take those 2 cups of diced vegetables and sprinkle them right on top of the chicken. This way, they’ll soak up all that yummy chicken flavor and cook evenly.
- Now, pour the can of diced tomatoes over everything. Make sure to get all that juicy goodness in there for moisture and flavor.
- Then, add the 1 cup of chicken broth. It’s key for keeping everything nice and juicy. If you’re using low-sodium broth, that’s totally fine!
- Sprinkle the 1 tablespoon of garlic powder, along with the 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of pepper. This is where the magic happens, so don’t skimp on the seasoning!
- Now, cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for about 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Just let it do its thing while you go about your day!
- Once the time’s up, shred the chicken with two forks right in the pot and mix everything together. It should be super tender and flavorful!
- Finally, serve it hot, and enjoy the delightful aroma you’ve created. Your home is about to smell amazing!
Don’t stress if it looks a bit messy at the end; that just means it’s packed with flavor! Just remember, the longer it cooks, the more tender the chicken will be. Happy cooking!
Tips for Success
To get the most out of this delicious crockpot meal, here are a few handy tips! First, make sure to cut your diced vegetables evenly. This helps them cook at the same rate, so you don’t end up with some overcooked mush and some still crunchy bits. Also, if you’re using frozen chicken, remember to add an extra hour or so to the cooking time on low. It’s all about keeping things safe and ensuring your chicken is cooked through! Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite herbs and spices—this is your meal, after all! Lastly, if you’re in a hurry, you can prep everything the night before and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the crockpot in the morning, and you’re good to go. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Each serving of this delicious crockpot meal is packed with flavor and good nutrition! Here’s a quick look at what you’re getting:
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 7g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fiber: 5g
These values are estimates based on the standard ingredients used, so feel free to tweak the recipe to fit your dietary needs! Enjoy a hearty meal without the guilt!
FAQ Section
How to customize this recipe?
Oh, I love that you’re thinking about customizing! This recipe is super flexible, and you can easily switch things up based on your preferences. For a different protein, try using turkey or pork instead of chicken. If you’re a veggie lover, add in some zucchini, green beans, or corn for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also switch out the diced tomatoes for coconut milk for a creamy twist or toss in some beans for added protein and texture. Don’t be shy—experiment with your favorite spices too! A little cumin or paprika can go a long way!
Can I prepare this meal in advance?
Absolutely! This is one of the best parts about crockpot meals cheap like this one. You can prep everything the night before. Just chop your vegetables and place them in a zip-top bag, and season your chicken breast with the garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In the morning, pop the chicken in the crockpot, add the veggies and tomatoes, pour in the broth, and you’re all set! Just remember to keep the lid on while it cooks; it helps to keep all those delicious flavors locked in. You’ll come home to a warm, comforting meal waiting for you!
What should I serve with this meal?
This crockpot meal is hearty enough on its own, but if you’re looking to round out the meal, I’ve got some tasty ideas! Serve it over a bed of rice or quinoa to soak up all that flavorful broth. A nice green salad on the side adds a fresh crunch, or you could whip up some garlic bread for that cozy, hearty touch. If you’re feeling adventurous, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top can elevate the whole dish. The options are endless, so choose what makes your taste buds sing!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—just toss everything in the crockpot!
- Budget-friendly ingredients that won’t break the bank.
- Perfect for busy days; set it and forget it while you go about your life!
- Hearty and satisfying, making it great for the whole family.
- Flexible recipe that allows you to customize with your favorite veggies and spices.
- Minimal cleanup means more time to enjoy your delicious meal!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing leftovers from this delicious crockpot meal is super simple! Just let it cool down a bit before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you have a lot left over (lucky you!), you can freeze the portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to three months. Just make sure to label them so you know what’s inside!
When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight if frozen. To reheat, pop it in the microwave for a few minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. If you prefer, you can also reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat until it’s warmed through. Just a tip—add a splash of broth or water while reheating to keep it nice and moist. Enjoy every bite!
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Crockpot Meals Cheap: 7 Simple Steps to Savor Deliciousness
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A simple and affordable crockpot meal that anyone can prepare.
Ingredients
- 1 pound of chicken breast
- 2 cups of diced vegetables (carrots, potatoes, bell peppers)
- 1 can of diced tomatoes
- 1 cup of chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of pepper
Instructions
- Place the chicken breast at the bottom of your crockpot.
- Add the diced vegetables on top of the chicken.
- Pour the can of diced tomatoes over the vegetables.
- Pour in the chicken broth.
- Sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the mixture.
- Cover the crockpot and set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and mix everything together.
- Serve hot and enjoy your meal.
Notes
- Cut vegetables evenly for consistent cooking.
- Feel free to add your favorite herbs for added flavor.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to three days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: crockpot meals cheap
