This Easy Crockpot Chicken with Peppers & Mushrooms is perfect for clean eating! Juicy chicken meets colorful peppers and mushrooms, all cooked low and slow for yummy flavors.
I love how easy this dish is—just toss everything in the crockpot! It’s great for busy days, and leftovers make tasty lunches. Your kitchen will smell amazing! 🍗🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless work best for a clean meal. If you’re looking for a change, you could use thighs, which tend to be more flavorful and stay juicier during cooking.
Bell peppers: Feel free to mix different colors for a vibrant dish! If bell peppers aren’t available, zucchini or even diced tomatoes can substitute nicely.
Mushrooms: I recommend cremini or white mushrooms for earthiness. If you don’t like mushrooms, try sliced carrots or another veggie you enjoy.
Spices: The oregano and thyme are classic flavor builders. If you want a little heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes! Fresh herbs like basil can be a delicious alternative, too.
Chicken broth: For a lighter option, use vegetable broth or even water if you can’t find broth. Just remember, it might alter the flavor slightly.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Tender?
Cooking chicken in a crockpot is great for tenderness, but you want to ensure it’s not overcooked. The key is the timing and temperature. Here are steps to keep the chicken juicy:
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours to allow the flavors to meld. If you’re short on time, high for 3-4 hours works, but keep an eye on it!
- Using a meat thermometer, check that the chicken reaches 165°F to ensure it’s safe to eat.
- After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before shredding. This prevents drying out!
Easy Crockpot Chicken with Peppers & Mushrooms for Clean Eating
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Vegetables:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced into strips
- 8 oz cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For Flavor:
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Optional Browning:
- 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time. You’ll need to cook it in the crockpot for 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. So, grab your ingredients, and in no time, you’ll have a delicious meal ready!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Browning the Chicken (Optional):
If you want extra flavor, start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Lightly brown the chicken breasts for about 2 minutes on each side. This step is totally optional, so if you’re short on time, feel free to skip it!
2. Layering the Veggies:
Take your crockpot and put the sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, and onion in the bottom. This makes a colorful base for the chicken!
3. Adding Flavors:
Now, sprinkle the minced garlic, dried oregano, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over the veggies. This is where all those delicious flavors come together!
4. Placing the Chicken:
Lay the chicken breasts on top of the veggies you just prepared in the crockpot. The chicken will soak up all those tasty flavors while it cooks.
5. Pouring in the Broth:
Now, pour the chicken broth evenly over everything in the crockpot. It will keep the chicken moist and flavorful.
6. Cooking Time:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook. Choose low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Enjoy the wonderful smells wafting through your kitchen while it cooks!
7. Shredding the Chicken:
After cooking, carefully remove the chicken from the crockpot. You can slice or shred the chicken, depending on your preference. Then, return it to the crockpot and mix it with all the veggies and juices.
8. Garnishing:
Before serving, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness!
9. Serving Suggestions:
Serve hot, and for a complete clean eating meal, consider adding a side of steamed greens or cauliflower rice. Enjoy your delicious, healthy meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure the chicken is completely thawed before cooking. A simple way to thaw is to place the chicken in the fridge overnight. If you’re in a hurry, submerge it in a sealed plastic bag in cold water for about an hour.
What If I Don’t Have All the Ingredients?
No worries! You can substitute the bell peppers with zucchini or carrots, and skip the mushrooms if you’re not a fan. As for the spices, if you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika will work just fine!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Can I Double the Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure your crockpot is large enough to hold all the ingredients. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, but it should stay similar, so check for doneness at the end.
