Crockpot Recipes for Busy Days are a lifesaver for anyone juggling a hectic schedule. These recipes allow you to prepare flavorful meals with minimal effort, making dinner a breeze. Whether you’re looking for comforting Chicken and Dumplings, zesty Tortilla Soup, or savory Chicken & Gravy, these dishes are customizable to suit your taste and dietary needs.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours
Total Time: 6-8 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 450
Protein: 35 grams
Carbohydrates: 36 grams
Fat: 20 grams
Fiber: 5 grams
Sugar: 3 grams
Sodium: 850 mg
Why Make Crockpot Recipes for Busy Days
Crockpot recipes are not only delicious but also incredibly healthy. Cooking in a crockpot allows the flavors to meld beautifully and can enhance the nutritional profile of your ingredients. You can easily load up your meals with vegetables, lean meats, and wholesome grains, making it effortless to adhere to dietary goals. Plus, they offer amazing versatility; you can switch up spices and ingredients based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.
How to Make Crockpot Recipes for Busy Days Step by Step
Ingredients
1 cup carrots, diced
1 cup celery, diced
1 cup yellow onion, diced
4 chicken breasts, skinless and boneless
22.6 ounces cream of chicken soup
2 cups water
1 teaspoon chicken bouillon
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup frozen peas
1 can Grands refrigerated biscuits (8-count)
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1/4 cup taco seasoning
4 ounces can diced green chiles
15.5 ounces can black beans, drained and rinsed
14.5 ounces can diced tomatoes
15.25 ounces can whole kernel corn, drained
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups grated Mexican cheese
1 cup heavy cream
Tortilla chips or 6 corn tortillas
Cilantro for garnish
10.75 ounces cream of chicken soup
2 envelopes chicken gravy mix
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 to 1.5 cups water
1/2 tablespoons Better Than Bouillon Chicken Flavor
4 large chicken breasts, cut in half horizontally
Green onions, sliced for garnish
Directions
For Chicken and Dumplings: Add all ingredients except for biscuits and peas to the crockpot. Cook on low for 6 hours. In the last hour, add frozen peas and top with biscuits, cover, and cook until biscuits are done.
For Tortilla Soup: Place chicken and taco seasoning in the crockpot, add green chiles, black beans, tomatoes, corn, chicken broth, and cheese. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. Stir in heavy cream just before serving and top with tortilla chips and cilantro.
For Chicken & Gravy: Combine cream of chicken soup, chicken gravy mix, black pepper, garlic powder, and water in the crockpot. Add chicken breasts, cover, and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Garnish with green onions before serving.
How to Serve Crockpot Recipes for Busy Days
These delicious dishes can be served with a side salad for a refreshing contrast. Pair them with crusty bread to soak up the flavors, or serve Rice Pilaf for a heartier meal. For Tortilla Soup, don’t forget extra toppings like avocado slices or jalapeños to boost the flavor profile.
How to Store Crockpot Recipes for Busy Days
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, warm them gently on the stove or in the microwave. For longer storage, freeze the dishes in individual portions, making it easy to reheat during busy weeks.
Expert Tips for Cooking Crockpot Recipes for Busy Days
- Always chop vegetables uniformly for even cooking.
- Layer ingredients correctly, placing firmer vegetables on the bottom and delicate items like peas on top.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste when adding cream or cheese.
- For creamier soups, add heavy cream toward the end of the cooking time.
- Don’t lift the lid too often; it releases heat and extends cooking time.
Delicious Variations of Crockpot Recipes for Busy Days
- For a spicy kick, add jalapeños or use a spicy taco seasoning in the Tortilla Soup.
- Experiment with herbs like thyme and rosemary for a different flavor in the Chicken and Dumplings.
- For a vegetarian option, replace chicken with lentils or chickpeas and vegetable broth in any recipe.
Crockpot Recipes for Busy Days are a fantastic way to enjoy flavorful, hearty meals without the hassle. With a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create meals that satisfy your family and fit into your busy lifestyle. Give these recipes a try; you won’t be disappointed!
