Slow Cooker Coconut Ginger Chicken & Vegetables

Serve this creamy and fragrant stew over Jasmine or brown rice. I like to top mine with a few chopped scallions. NOTE: My slow cooker bowl can be used on a burner which can then be transferred to its electric base to cook further, but if you have a different type, then simply prepare the first few steps of this recipe in a heavy bottomed pot or skillet and transfer the ingredients to the slow cooker when the liquids are added.

Slow Cooker Coconut Ginger Chicken & Vegetables
Slow Cooker Coconut Ginger Chicken & Vegetables

Serve this creamy and fragrant stew over Jasmine or brown rice. I like to top mine with a few chopped scallions. NOTE: My slow cooker bowl can be used on a burner which can then be transferred to its electric base to cook further, but if you have a different type, then simply prepare the first few steps of this recipe in a heavy bottomed pot or skillet and transfer the ingredients to the slow cooker when the liquids are added.

  • Preparing Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Served Person: 8

Step-by-step

  • Combine ingredients from the spice blend together and set aside.
  • In a mini food processor, combine garlic, ginger and onion and pulse until it forms a paste.
  • In the bottom of a slow-cooker placed on a burner, heat olive oil and melt butter. Add pureed aromatics and stir well. Cook for a few minutes, then add spice blend. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
  • Move aromatics to one side of the pot and add chicken pieces to the pot. Cook chicken slightly on all sides, using a sturdy wooden spoon to move it around the pot. It should get thoroughly coated with the spice mixture.
  • Open the cans of coconut milk and remove the cream from the top using a soup spoon. You should have about 1 cup. Pour the coconut milk over the chicken and with both cans, it should just barely cover the chicken.
  • Drain the corn cobs and chop in half. Add to the slow-cooker.
  • Place the slow cooker in the base and cook on low for 4 hours.
  • Whisk cornstarch with coconut cream until smooth and add to the chicken. Stir well. Add frozen peas or other vegetables of your choice. Cook for another half hour or until you deem the chicken cooked and the vegetables hot.
Slow Cooker Coconut Ginger Chicken & Vegetables

A Weeknight Wonder: Slow Cooker Coconut Ginger Chicken & Vegetables

As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a healthy and delicious dinner often feels like a Herculean task. Weeknights are a whirlwind of school pick-ups, homework battles, and the never-ending cycle of laundry. So when I discovered this slow cooker coconut ginger chicken and vegetable recipe, it was a revelation. Not only is it incredibly flavorful and satisfying, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare and requires minimal hands-on time. The slow cooker does all the work, leaving me free to focus on the more pressing matters of family life. This recipe has become a staple in our home, a comforting and aromatic dish that always seems to please everyone, even the pickiest eaters.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability. The base of coconut milk, ginger, and garlic creates a wonderfully rich and fragrant broth that perfectly complements the tender chicken thighs. The addition of corn and peas adds a touch of sweetness and vibrant color, making it a visually appealing as well as a delicious dish. But don’t feel limited by these vegetables; feel free to experiment! Broccoli florets, carrots, bell peppers – virtually any vegetable that you enjoy will work beautifully in this recipe. I’ve even been known to throw in some leftover roasted sweet potatoes for extra sweetness and a bit of texture. The possibilities are endless.

The slow cooker’s magic is in its ability to infuse the chicken and vegetables with a depth of flavour that you simply can’t achieve with quicker cooking methods. The long, slow cooking process allows the spices to meld together seamlessly, creating a symphony of taste in every bite. And the best part? The clean-up is minimal! Once the dinner is served, simply wipe out the slow cooker and you’re done. It’s a dream come true for a busy weeknight.

Beyond the Dinner Table:

This recipe is incredibly versatile. It's fantastic served over rice, as suggested in the recipe, but it also makes a delicious addition to salads, quesadillas, or even tacos. The shredded chicken can be incorporated into various dishes, offering a flavourful boost to your meals throughout the week. I often make a large batch on Sunday and use the leftovers for lunches or quick weeknight meals. It's a true time-saver!

Tips for Success:

  • Don't be afraid to experiment with vegetables. The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability. Use whatever vegetables you have on hand.
  • Adjust the spices to your liking. If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped chili peppers.
  • Make it ahead of time. This dish tastes even better the next day! You can make it ahead and reheat it when you're ready to eat.
  • Garnish generously. Fresh cilantro, scallions, or toasted coconut flakes would make a beautiful and flavorful topping.

More than just a meal; it's a stress-reliever. This slow cooker recipe has become more than just a dinner option; it’s a symbol of my ability to create a warm, nourishing meal even amidst the chaos of daily life. It’s a testament to the fact that taking care of myself and my family doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Sometimes, the simplest dishes are the most satisfying and rewarding, and this coconut ginger chicken is a prime example of that truth.