This easy Crockpot dish brings together tender chicken, fluffy potatoes, and bright green beans in one pot! It’s a comforting meal that practically cooks itself.
I love tossing everything in the Crockpot and letting it do the work. Not only is it simple, but the mix of flavors makes for a warm dinner that feels like a big hug! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless thighs keep the dish juicy. If you prefer, you can use chicken breasts, but they might need a bit more broth to stay moist during cooking.
Baby Potatoes: They add a nice creaminess. If you don’t have baby potatoes, regular potatoes cut into chunks work well too. Just ensure even sizes for cooking consistency.
Green Beans: Fresh green beans have the best texture, but you can substitute frozen ones. Just add them at the end of cooking, as they cook faster.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: This adds a great flavor! If you want to make it from scratch, blend dried herbs like parsley, dill, and garlic powder for a similar taste.
Chicken Broth: You can swap this with vegetable broth for a lighter flavor or white wine for a little extra depth.
How Do You Make Sure the Chicken Stays Tender in the Crockpot?
To ensure the chicken stays tender, start by seasoning it well. Placing it on top of the potatoes helps it absorb flavors without drying out. The chicken broth adds moisture as it cooks. Always check the internal temperature of the chicken; it should be 165°F to be fully cooked.
- Make sure the lid is on tightly to keep steam in.
- If cooking on high, check for doneness after 2 hours.
- For best texture, don’t cook it longer than necessary.
With these tips, you’ll enjoy a hearty and delicious meal that’s easy to prepare!
Crockpot Chicken with Potatoes and Green Beans
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Chicken and Vegetables:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1.5 lbs baby potatoes, halved
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
Seasoning and Broth:
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious crockpot meal takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then needs to cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. It’s the perfect “set it and forget it” recipe for a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Potatoes:
In a large bowl, drizzle the halved baby potatoes with olive oil. Season them with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, then toss everything together until the potatoes are evenly coated. This step gives your potatoes a yummy flavor!
2. Layer in the Crockpot:
Place the seasoned baby potatoes in the bottom of the crockpot. They will absorb all the delicious juices as they cook!
3. Add the Chicken:
Sprinkle the ranch seasoning over the chicken thighs. Then, lay the seasoned chicken on top of the potatoes in the crockpot. This adds a burst of flavor to your chicken.
4. Pour in the Chicken Broth:
Next, pour the chicken broth over everything in the crockpot. This will keep the chicken moist and add more flavor to the dish.
5. Cook to Perfection:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. You know it’s done when the chicken is fully cooked and very tender!
6. Add the Green Beans:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, add the trimmed green beans on top of the chicken and potatoes in the crockpot. Cover again and let them cook until they’re tender, adding a lovely crunch to your meal.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is cooked, serve the chicken, potatoes, and green beans on plates. If you want, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your comforting crockpot meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken thighs, but be aware that they will need to thaw before cooking for best results. You can safely thaw chicken in the refrigerator overnight, or use the microwave’s defrost setting if you’re short on time. Just ensure they’re fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning and adding to the crockpot!
What If I Don’t Have Ranch Seasoning?
No worries! You can make a homemade ranch seasoning mix using equal parts dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix those together and use it in place of the ranch seasoning packet. This will give you a similar flavor profile.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain the flavor and texture, avoid reheating the entire batch at once. Instead, take out individual portions and heat them in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just keep in mind that harder vegetables may need to be added earlier in the cooking process, while softer ones can be added during the last 30 minutes alongside the green beans for optimal tenderness.
