Slow Cooker Balsamic Chicken: Delight in Simple, Flavorful Cooking
Looking for an easy and delicious meal? This slow cooker balsamic chicken recipe is a perfect choice. With minimal prep and a delightful blend of flavors, it’s a culinary treat simmered to perfection in your slow cooker. Ideal for busy weeknights, this dish will leave you and your family craving more.
Yield and Prep Information
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours and 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Balsamic Chicken
olive oil – 2 tablespoons
chicken breasts – 4 skinless, boneless halves, or more to taste
salt and pepper to taste
onion – 1, thinly sliced
garlic – 4 cloves, minced
oregano – 1 teaspoon
basil – 1 teaspoon
a href=’https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074J7WYBX/ref=nosim?tag=yogaforfocus-20′ target=’_blank’>rosemary – 1 teaspoon
thyme – ½ teaspoon
balsamic vinegar – ½ cup
tomatoes – 2 (14.5 ounce) cans crushed
Instructions for Making Slow Cooker Balsamic Chicken
1. Firstly, start by preparing your slow cooker. Drizzle the olive oil at the bottom to ensure nothing sticks.
2. Lay the chicken breasts evenly in the slow cooker and season them with salt and pepper to taste. For an added kick, consider a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.
3. Next, distribute the thinly sliced onion and crushed garlic over the chicken.
4. In a small bowl, mix the oregano, basil, rosemary, and thyme together. Sprinkle this aromatic blend over the chicken to enhance the flavor profile.
5. Carefully pour the balsamic vinegar over the chicken, ensuring it covers all pieces generously.
6. Lastly, incorporate the cans of crushed tomatoes. They add a tangy freshness that complements the balsamic. For a thicker sauce, add tomato paste as needed.
7. Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on high for approximately 4 hours. If time allows, cooking on low for 6-8 hours can intensify flavors.
Serving Suggestions and Options
Once cooked, serve the delightful slow cooker balsamic chicken over a bed of freshly cooked pasta. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese atop for an added layer of flavor. In other words, this pairing brings a rich and hearty touch to your meal.
For those monitoring their carb intake, consider serving this dish with a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli or a fresh garden salad.
Health Benefits of this Slow Cooker Balsamic Chicken
Firstly, the slow cooking process enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients without adding extra fats. Moreover, using the chicken breasts provides a lean source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
Furthermore, balsamic vinegar is not just a flavor enhancer but also offers numerous health benefits. It is packed with antioxidants and helps reduce blood sugar levels. Additionally, fresh tomatoes are a great source of vitamin C and potassium.
Optional Healthier Alternative Method
For a slightly healthier twist, consider air frying the chicken breasts before adding them to the slow cooker. This method can add a crispy texture and reduce the oil needed in the preparation. However, if you love the tenderness of slow-cooked chicken, the original recipe remains a spectacular choice.
Conclusion: Savor Every Bite of Slow Cooker Balsamic Chicken
To sum up, this slow cooker balsamic chicken recipe is a superb addition to your dining table, delivering taste and nutrition with minimal effort. As a result, it’s not just a meal, but an experience that satisfies both the soul and appetite.
Try this delightful recipe today and enjoy a wholesome, delicious dinner with your loved ones! Whether served over pasta or paired with a salad, this dish promises satisfaction in every bite.
