Crock-Pot Creamy Chicken and Summer Squash Recipe
Try this Crock-Pot Creamy Chicken and Summer Squash Recipe.
Try this Crock-Pot Creamy Chicken and Summer Squash Recipe.
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
- 16 ounces sour cream
- 1 large yellow onion (diced)
- 3 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 21 ounces canned cream of chicken soup (2 (10.5 ounce) cans
- 4 small summer squash (sliced i used yellow squash)
- 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1 tablespoon butter (at room temperature)
- 1 cup bread crumbs (if you need gluten free or low carb you can use crushed pork rinds. )
- dried parsley (garnish)
- ground paprika (garnish)
- Carbohydrate 2.45791093062 g
- Cholesterol 120.768968493 mg
- Fat 8.9152294395 g
- Fiber 0.017390625 g
- Protein 40.949567233155 g
- Saturated Fat 4.797382434015 g
- Serving Size 1 1 people (301g)
- Sodium 170.1742491295 mg
- Sugar 2.44052030562 g
- Trans Fat 0.911812538391002 g
- Calories 264 calories
Step-by-step
- If desired, line a 6.5-quart slow cooker with a Crock-Pot Liner and spray with non-stick cooking spray.
- Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the crock pot.
- In a large mixing bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chopped onion, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic salt, pepper, and butter.
- Fold the summer squash into the mixing bowl, ensuring the sliced squash is well coated.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken.
- Sprinkle bread crumbs over the top.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours or HIGH for 4 to 5 hours.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken's temperature before serving; it should reach 165 Fahrenheit.
- Serve over hot cooked rice or pasta and garnish with dried parsley and ground paprika, if desired.
Crock-Pot Creamy Chicken and Summer Squash: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Dinner needs to be quick, easy, and delicious – no exceptions. That's why I've become obsessed with slow cooker recipes. They're my secret weapon for getting a wholesome, satisfying meal on the table without spending hours in the kitchen. This Crock-Pot Creamy Chicken and Summer Squash recipe is a perfect example. It's incredibly flavorful, surprisingly easy, and best of all, it practically cooks itself!
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. You simply toss everything into the slow cooker, set it, and forget it. While the chicken simmers in a creamy sauce infused with summer squash, you can focus on other things – getting the kids ready for bed, catching up on emails, or even just relaxing with a cup of tea. The result is a tender, juicy chicken bathed in a rich, cheesy sauce that’s both comforting and satisfying. The summer squash adds a subtle sweetness and a lovely texture contrast to the creamy sauce and chicken.
I love how versatile this recipe is. Feel free to experiment with different types of squash. Zucchini would work wonderfully, as would butternut squash (though you might need to adjust the cooking time). You can also easily customize the seasonings to your liking. A dash of cayenne pepper would add a nice kick, while a sprinkle of oregano or thyme would enhance the herbaceous notes. Don't be afraid to get creative and make it your own!
One of my favorite things about this recipe is the ease of cleanup. Using a slow cooker liner significantly reduces the amount of scrubbing required. This is a lifesaver on busy weeknights when the last thing you want to do is spend ages washing dishes. After dinner, simply remove the liner and toss it in the dishwasher – effortless!
Beyond its convenience and deliciousness, this dish is surprisingly healthy. The chicken provides a good source of lean protein, while the summer squash offers vitamins and fiber. It’s a well-balanced meal that’s perfect for fueling your family throughout the week. I often serve this over brown rice for an added boost of nutrients, or sometimes I’ll make some simple quinoa as a side.
This Crock-Pot Creamy Chicken and Summer Squash recipe is more than just a meal; it's a testament to the power of simple cooking. It's a dish that embodies the spirit of effortless elegance, allowing you to enjoy a delicious, healthy meal without sacrificing precious time or energy. It's the kind of recipe that will quickly become a weeknight staple in your home, just like it has in mine.
So, next time you're looking for a quick, easy, and delicious dinner that the whole family will love, give this recipe a try. You won't be disappointed! And remember, even the busiest amongst us deserve a delicious, home-cooked meal that doesn’t require a culinary degree to prepare. This recipe is your key to unlocking that simple pleasure.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Add some veggies: Throw in some diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Make it a one-pot wonder: Cook the rice or quinoa in the slow cooker along with the chicken and squash (adjust cooking time accordingly).
- Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed pork rinds.
- Make it ahead: Prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
Enjoy this simple and delicious meal, and remember, even the busiest of lives can accommodate a little bit of delicious home cooking!
