Slow Cooker Chicken Chile Verde
Try this Slow Cooker Chicken Chile Verde recipe.
Try this Slow Cooker Chicken Chile Verde recipe.
- 1 1/2 lbs fresh tomatillos6 whole garlic cloves peeled1/2 onion, chopped1 cup fresh cilantro2 jalapeã±os, stems removed and deseeded (for extra heat use serranos instead)juice and zest from 1 lime1 tablespoon cumin powder2 teaspoons honey1 teaspoon sea salt
- approx 3 cups salsa verde (see above or use your f chicken broth or vegetable broth ( i used 1 cup of vegetable broth and 1 cup water)4-5lb organic pasture-raised whole chicken*1/2 large onion, diced1 red bell pepper, diced1 dried bay leaf1 teaspoon ground coriander1/2 cup fresh cilantrosalt and pepper, to
- Carbohydrate 0 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 0 g
- Fiber 0 g
- Protein 0 g
- Saturated Fat 0 g
- Serving Size 1 1 recipe (680g)
- Sodium 0 mg
- Sugar 0 g
- Trans Fat 0 g
- Calories 0 calories
Step-by-step
- Ingredients: 1 1/2 lbs fresh tomatillos, 6 whole garlic cloves peeled, 1/2 onion, chopped, 1 cup fresh cilantro, 2 jalapeños, stems removed and deseeded (for extra heat use serranos instead), juice and zest from 1 lime, 1 tablespoon cumin powder, 2 teaspoons honey, 1 teaspoon sea salt, approx 3 cups salsa verde, 3 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth ( i used 1 cup of vegetable broth and 1 cup water), 4-5lb organic pasture-raised whole chicken, 1/2 large onion, diced, 1 red bell pepper, diced, 1 dried bay leaf, 1 teaspoon ground coriander, 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, salt and pepper, to taste.
- Combine tomatillos, garlic, onion, cilantro, jalapeños, lime juice and zest, cumin, honey, and salt in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth.
- In a slow cooker, combine the tomatillo mixture, salsa verde, broth, chicken, diced onion, bell pepper, bay leaf, and coriander.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds.
- Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it.
- Skim off excess fat from the cooking liquid.
- Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine.
- Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Slow Cooker Chicken Chile Verde: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook delicious and healthy meals can feel like a Herculean task. Between juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and after-school activities, the last thing I want to do when I get home is spend hours in the kitchen. That’s why I’ve become a huge fan of slow cooker recipes. They’re my secret weapon for creating flavorful, satisfying meals with minimal effort.
This Slow Cooker Chicken Chile Verde is a prime example. It's a vibrant, flavorful dish that's surprisingly easy to make. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the chicken to become incredibly tender and the flavors to meld beautifully. The best part? It’s incredibly versatile! You can serve it over rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. I often add a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for extra freshness. Leftovers are fantastic too – it reheats beautifully and the flavors actually deepen overnight!
What I love about this recipe:
- Simplicity: The minimal prep work makes it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavor: The combination of tomatillos, jalapeños, and spices creates a vibrant and complex flavor profile that's both savory and slightly sweet.
- Health Benefits: It's packed with protein from the chicken and plenty of vegetables for added nutrients. And, it's naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and Paleo-friendly, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
- Versatility: It’s delicious served in a variety of ways, making it a weeknight go-to.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of jalapeños to your preference. If you like it extra spicy, substitute serrano peppers.
- Chicken: You can use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for extra flavor, or substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a leaner option.
- Broth: Use chicken broth for a richer flavor, or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option. I often use a combination of both for a more balanced taste.
- Garnishes: Get creative with your garnishes! Fresh cilantro, avocado slices, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, shredded cheese (if not dairy-free), and lime wedges all make great additions.
- Make it Ahead: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. Make a large batch on the weekend and enjoy delicious, healthy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Beyond its ease and deliciousness, this Slow Cooker Chicken Chile Verde embodies the spirit of effortless cooking. It's the kind of recipe that allows you to savor the moment, to enjoy the delicious aromas filling your kitchen, without feeling overwhelmed by the process. It’s a testament to the power of simple ingredients and smart cooking techniques – a reminder that healthy, delicious meals don’t have to be complicated.
This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of simplicity, flavor, and the joy of coming together around a delicious, home-cooked meal. It's a dish that reflects my own approach to life – efficient, flavorful, and always with a touch of warmth and heart.
So, next time you're looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly tasty weeknight dinner, give this Slow Cooker Chicken Chile Verde a try. You won't regret it!
