Zesty Lemon Herb Crockpot Chicken & Root Veggie Roast

Looking for healthy crockpot chicken recipes? This lemon herb version with roasted root veggies is a winner! Super easy, tastes amazing, and good for you too. Get the recipe!

Alright, buckle up, buttercups! let's chat about easy dinners. are you tired of slaving away in the kitchen? me too! but what if i told you there's a way to get a healthy, flavorful meal on the table with minimal effort? that's where healthy crockpot chicken recipes come in, my friends.

Crockpot Chicken Magic

Slow cookers are amazing. they are also sometimes called crockpots. they are pure magic for busy folks. they let you toss ingredients in, set it, and forget it.

What's more british than a proper sunday roast? well, this is like that, but way easier. we are going to use a zesty lemon herb slow cooker honey garlic chicken .

It's going to have root veg. it's like a hug in a bowl.

This particular recipe is inspired by sunny mediterranean flavors. a hint of sunshine on a plate! this is an easy recipe.

The prep time? just 20 minutes. then, the slow cooker does its thing for 6- 8 hours on low or 3- 4 hours on high.

This is great for family dinner with about six servings

Why You'll Love This Crockpot Chicken

Honestly? it's tasty and good for you. you could try and see if you can do something similar with slow cooker recipes turkey but it would need some tweaking, but this healthy crockpot chicken recipes offers a big protein boost.

Plus, all those root veggies are packed with vitamins and fiber. it is perfect for a comforting weeknight meal. this recipe is special because it's so versatile.

You can easily adapt it to your liking. maybe add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick? or a drizzle of honey for sweetness? trust me, you'll be making this one again and again.

Want it vegan? try vegan slow cooker recipes and swap the chicken for tofu.

Ready to get started?

Right then, let's dive into what you'll actually need to make this amazing healthy crockpot chicken recipes . this ain't rocket science.

It's proper tasty, simple grub. and if you are looking for slow cooker recipes shrimp , slow cooker recipes turkey , or something even as fancy as lasagna recipe slow cooker or slow cooker pasta recipes , stick around because you'll find the principles are more or less the same!.

Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get Sorted!

Alright, before we get our aprons on, let's make sure we've got everything. Nothing's worse than realizing you're missing something halfway through. Been there, done that, got the t-shirt!

Main Ingredients: What You Really Need

• Chicken Thighs: 2 lbs (900g) . Now, listen, you want decent chicken. Free-range if you can swing it. Makes a difference, honestly.
• Carrots: 1 lb (450g) , peeled and chopped. No need to be fancy, just roughly the same size.
• Potatoes: 1 lb (450g) , Yukon Gold or Red, scrubbed and chopped. I love Yukon Golds, they go all creamy.
• Sweet Potatoes: 1 lb (450g) , peeled and chopped. Adds a bit of sweetness, lovely.
• Onion: 1 large , chopped. Don't cry too much.
• Garlic: 4 cloves , minced. Go on, be generous.
• Lemon: 1 , zested and juiced. Zest first, juice later. Saves time.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons . Extra virgin, naturally.
• Dried Oregano: 1 tablespoon .
• Dried Thyme: 1 tablespoon .
• Salt: 1 teaspoon .
• Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon . Freshly ground, if you're feeling posh.
• Chicken Broth: ½ cup (120ml) , low-sodium.

Seasoning Notes: Spice It Up!

• Oregano and thyme? Classic combo. It just works, doesn't it?
• Lemon zest is the star. Don't skimp! Brightens everything up.
• Fancy some heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Boom!
• If you don't have oregano and thyme. Italian seasoning works just fine, or even herbs de provence.

Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple

• Slow Cooker (Crockpot): 6-quart (5.7 liter) or bigger. The bigger the better!.
• Cutting board and knife: Obviously.
• Lemon Zester: It'll make your life easier.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For the measurements, you know?

Alternatives? a big pot with a lid on very low heat works in a pinch, but it's not the same.

And you will also find out how vegan slow cooker recipes , vegetarian slow cooker recipes and slow cooker honey garlic chicken , rava idli , or even garlic chicken thighs are just as easy to do, it's all about setting everything in the right moment for each case.

Now, honestly, that's it. Nothing too crazy. Let's get cooking!. This healthy crockpot chicken recipes, or any of the other Slow Cooker Recipes will change your life.

Alright, let's dive into the wonderful world of slow cooking! i'm gonna share my take on healthy crockpot chicken recipes .

Forget slaving over a hot stove! we're talking about chuck-it-in-and-forget-about-it cooking. honestly, it's a lifesaver, especially on those hectic weeknights.

Did you know slow cookers have been around since the early 20th century? a true testament to their timeless appeal!

Zesty Lemon Herb Crockpot Chicken & Root Veggie Roast

This recipe is all about juicy chicken thighs and hearty roasted root vegetables. Think lemon, fresh herbs, and cozy vibes. It’s like a Sunday roast but without all the fuss.

Prep Steps: Your Mise en Place Mission

First things first: chop everything! you'll need roughly 20 minutes. we're talking about carrots, potatoes, sweet potatoes, and a big ol' onion.

Mince some garlic too. zest and juice one lemon. this is your essential mise en place .

Time-Saving Tip: Chop your veggies the night before. Store them in the fridge. Thank me later.

Step-by-Step: From Prep to Plate

Here’s the simple breakdown:

1. Chop 1 lb (450g) carrots , 1 lb (450g) potatoes , and 1 lb (450g) sweet potatoes . Dice 1 large onion . Mince 4 cloves of garlic .
2. Toss 2 lbs (900g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs with lemon zest, 1 tbsp dried oregano , 1 tbsp dried thyme , 1 tsp salt , and 1/2 tsp black pepper . And 2 tablespoons olive oil
3. Dump the veg into your 6-quart (5.7 liter) crockpot.
4. Nestle the seasoned chicken on top.
5. Pour in ½ cup (120ml) low-sodium chicken broth and the lemon juice.
6. Cook on low for 6- 8 hours , or high for 3- 4 hours . Chicken needs to hit 165° F ( 74° C) internally! Use a meat thermometer to check.
7. Shred the chicken (optional). Garnish with fresh parsley. Ta-da!

Pro Tips for Crockpot Champions

Expert Secret: Searing the chicken before it hits the crockpot adds extra flavour. Just a quick sear will do.

Common Mistake Alert: Overcrowding the crockpot. It leads to uneven cooking. Don't do it!

Make-Ahead Magic: You can prep this entire meal the night before. Just store it in the fridge and chuck it in the crockpot in the morning.

This recipe is fantastic with a side of quinoa or a simple green salad. and speaking of variations, it's totally adaptable.

Wanna try a lasagna recipe slow cooker style? or perhaps some garlic chicken thighs in slow cooker. for the spice lovers, add some red pepper flakes.

If you are thinking of catering to a different crowd, you can try vegan slow cooker recipes and vegetarian slow cooker recipes using tofu and chickpeas!.

You could even try a slow cooker honey garlic chicken variation! the possibilities are endless. slow cooker pasta recipes can be an alternative choice for a family dinner!

The beauty of healthy crockpot chicken recipes is their simplicity. so grab your crockpot, give this recipe a whirl, and let me know what you think! it's proper lush, innit? and don’t forget to consider that there are great slow cooker recipes shrimp and slow cooker recipes turkey out there that you could prepare.

Alright, let's talk about making this Zesty Lemon Herb Crockpot Chicken & Root Veggie Roast even better . Because honestly, who doesn't want to level up their healthy crockpot chicken recipes game?

Recipe Notes

Serving Suggestions: Ace That Presentation!

Presentation is key, innit?

• Think about plating this up. A bed of fluffy quinoa, maybe? Serve it in a rustic bowl. Garnish with that chopped fresh parsley. Oh, and a wedge of lemon on the side. You know? For extra zest.
• Sides, sides, sides! A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette would be banging. Crusty bread for soaking up all those delicious juices? Yes, please! I’m picturing this with a nice glass of chilled Pinot Grigio. Cheers to that.

Storage Tips: No Waste Here!

• Leftovers? No problem! Chuck it in the fridge. It will be good for about 3-4 days. Make sure it is in an airtight container, yeah?
• Freezing? Go for it! Just let it cool completely first. Pop it in a freezer-safe container. It’ll keep for up to 3 months. I always write the date on the container, just so I don’t forget.
• Reheating? Easy peasy. Microwave, oven, or even back in the slow cooker recipes . Just make sure the chicken's piping hot all the way through. Use your meat thermometer . I can not stress this enough, 165° F ( 74° C).

Variations: Mix It Up!

• Want to make it Vegetarian Slow Cooker Recipes or even Vegan Slow Cooker Recipes ? Swap the chicken for cubed firm tofu and add a can of chickpeas. It’s surprisingly delicious.
• Seasonal swaps are the bomb! In autumn, try butternut squash instead of sweet potatoes. Adds a lovely sweetness. Slow Cooker Recipes Shrimp or Slow Cooker Recipes Turkey are also amazing to play around with.
• If you like it with Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken , add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness.. You could even try to incorporate a Lasagna Recipe Slow Cooker .

Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Bite

• Alright, so rough guide: Per Serving (estimated): Calories: 350-400, Protein: 35-40g, Fat: 15-20g, Carbohydrates: 25-30g. You get the gist. It's packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins. Basically, it's good for you.
• This is a win-win. It's tasty, it's easy, and it's genuinely good for you. You know? That’s why I love Garlic Chicken Thighs , but this crockpot version is just so simple. No need to be a master chef here.

Honestly, this healthy crockpot chicken recipes dish is a belter. give it a go. you won't regret it. even the rava idli fans in your life might be swayed.

Happy cooking, my friend! and remember, you are welcome to look for slow cooker pasta recipes online, if you need them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this really one of the healthy crockpot chicken recipes I keep hearing about?

Absolutely! This Lemon Herb Crockpot Chicken with Roasted Root Vegetables prioritizes lean protein and nutrient-rich vegetables. By using chicken thighs (trimmed of excess fat), and plenty of fresh herbs, and root vegetables, it’s a balanced and comforting meal without excessive fat or sodium. Plus, cooking in a crockpot often means you need less added oil, making it even healthier.

Can I adapt this recipe for different vegetables? I'm not a huge fan of sweet potatoes.

Definitely! Think of the root vegetables as a guideline rather than a rigid rule. Parsnips, turnips, or even butternut squash can easily replace the sweet potatoes. Just make sure you cut them into roughly the same size pieces as the other vegetables so they all cook evenly. You can also add other veggies like bell peppers or zucchini towards the end of the cooking time so they don't get too mushy.

How do I store leftovers, and how long will they last? Can I freeze this healthy crockpot chicken recipe?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the chicken and vegetables have cooled down completely before refrigerating. For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken and vegetables in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2-3 months. When reheating, ensure the chicken is heated through to a safe internal temperature.

My chicken always seems dry when I use the crockpot. What am I doing wrong?

A common culprit for dry chicken in a crockpot is overcooking. Chicken thighs are generally more forgiving than chicken breasts, but it's still possible to overcook them. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Once it reaches 165°F (74°C), it's done! Also, make sure your crockpot isn't running too hot; some run hotter than others, so you might need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Don't be tempted to keep opening the lid during cooking, either - this releases heat and moisture, potentially drying out the chicken.

I'm trying to reduce sodium. What can I do to make this recipe even healthier?

Great question! Sodium reduction is a worthwhile goal. The easiest way to cut back on sodium is to use low-sodium or no-salt-added chicken broth. You can also skip the added salt entirely and rely on the fresh herbs and lemon for flavor. Be mindful of any seasonings or pre-mixed spice blends you use, as they can often contain hidden sodium. Always taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this healthy crockpot chicken recipes?

You can use chicken breasts, but be aware they tend to dry out more easily in the slow cooker than thighs. If you do, reduce the cooking time, and consider adding a little extra chicken broth to keep them moist. Make sure you still cook them to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). To help avoid drying out, consider searing the chicken breasts before putting them in the slow cooker. Alternatively, use boneless skinless chicken thighs, which are less prone to drying out.

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