Chicken in a Crock Pot with new potatoes

Chicken in a Crock Pot with new potatoes: a simple and delicious recipe for a perfect meal

Are you looking for an easy-to-make recipe that is full of flavors and taste? Chicken in a Crock Pot with new potatoes is the ideal choice. This recipe will not only satisfy your taste buds but also provide you with a tender and juicy dish, slow-cooked to retain all its flavor. Plus, the Crock Pot allows you to enjoy your free time while the food cooks on its own.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 6 hours (low mode)
Total time: 6 hours and 20 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 whole chicken (approximately 1.5 - 1.8 kg)
- 4 new potatoes (preferably medium-sized)
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon of turmeric
- 1 teaspoon of marjoram
- 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary
- 4 sprigs of fresh thyme
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil (or another preferred oil)
- Coarse salt or Himalayan salt, to taste

A bit of history:

The Crock Pot was invented in the 1970s, revolutionizing the way we cook. These slow-cooking appliances allow us to create dishes rich in flavors that develop gradually during cooking. This cooking method is perfect for chicken, which becomes tender and juicy while absorbing the flavors of the ingredients used. Chicken with potatoes is a classic dish often found at family meals, loved for its simplicity and versatility.

Preparing the chicken:

1. Preparing the potatoes: Start by peeling the potatoes and cutting them into thick slices, about 2-3 cm. This thickness will allow them to remain crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. If you have time, soak them in cold water for a few hours to remove excess starch. This will make the potatoes crispier.

2. Creating the potato bed: Arrange the potato slices in an even layer in the Crock Pot. This will create a delicious base that will absorb the juices and flavors from the chicken during cooking.

Seasoning the chicken:

3. The spice mix: In a small bowl, combine the paprika, black pepper, turmeric, and marjoram. This mix will add a deep flavor and beautiful color to your chicken.

4. Preparing the garlic: Finely chop the garlic cloves and, using a mortar, crush them to release their flavors. This step will enhance the chicken's taste.

5. Massage the chicken: Take the chicken and massage it with the crushed garlic mixture, ensuring it is well coated. Drizzle with oil and evenly sprinkle the spice mix.

6. Add the herbs: Chop 2 sprigs of rosemary and sprinkle them over the chicken. Place the other 2 sprigs along with the thyme sprigs inside the chicken. These herbs will provide a superb aroma and distinctive taste.

7. Salting: Don’t forget to sprinkle coarse salt or Himalayan salt on the chicken to enhance the flavors.

Cooking in the Crock Pot:

8. Placing the chicken: Place the seasoned chicken on top of the potatoes in the Crock Pot, ensuring it is evenly positioned.

9. Setting the Crock Pot: Set the Crock Pot to low cooking mode for 6 hours. Even if you won't be present when cooking is finished, don't worry; the appliance will automatically switch to warm mode.

Serving:

10. The final dish: When the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken from the Crock Pot and place it on a large plate or a deep tray. You can use a spatula to move the potatoes.

11. Garnish: Serve the chicken alongside the roasted potatoes and complement the meal with a light salad dressed with yogurt dressing. This will add a fresh note and balance the rich flavors of the chicken.

Tips and variations:

- If you want to add a touch of acidity, you can add a few slices of lemon inside the chicken.
- Another delicious variation is to replace the potatoes with carrots, onions, or zucchini, depending on your preferences.
- You can add a splash of white wine or chicken broth to the Crock Pot for an extra flavor boost.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Will the chicken be cooked enough after 6 hours? Yes, slow cooking allows the chicken to become extremely tender and juicy. Always check the internal temperature, which should be at least 75°C.

2. Can I use frozen chicken? It is recommended to thaw the chicken before cooking. Cooking a frozen chicken can affect the texture and even cooking.

3. What else can I add to the Crock Pot? You can experiment with various vegetables, such as peas, bell peppers, or even mushrooms. Each ingredient will add a note of flavor.

Nutritional benefits:

Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, and slow cooking retains essential nutrients. New potatoes are rich in fiber, vitamins B and C, and provide healthy carbohydrates for energy. This recipe is not only tasty but also healthy, perfect for a family meal.

Chicken in a Crock Pot with new potatoes is a dish that will bring the family together at the table, and its flavors will delight your senses. Try this simple recipe and treat your loved ones to a truly special dish!