Slow Cooker Chicken Ham and Potatoes: A Simple and Hearty Comfort Meal
Just as a warm blanket offers comfort on a chilly evening, this Slow Cooker Chicken Ham and Potatoes recipe provides a hearty and satisfying meal with minimal effort. Tender potatoes, flavorful chicken ham, and aromatic onions are slow-cooked to perfection, creating a dish that’s both comforting and incredibly easy to prepare. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you crave a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients:
6 to 8 slices of chicken ham, chopped
4 to 5 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced
1 medium onion, chopped
These three simple ingredients form the base of this comforting slow cooker dish. The chicken ham provides a savory and slightly smoky flavor, while the potatoes become incredibly tender and flavorful during the slow-cooking process. The chopped onion adds a subtle sweetness and aromatic depth.
Building Layers of Flavor:
While these are the essential ingredients, you can easily enhance this dish with additional components to create a more complex and satisfying meal. Consider adding:
Chicken Broth: A cup or two of chicken broth adds moisture and helps to create a flavorful sauce.
Garlic: Minced garlic adds a pungent and aromatic note that complements the other flavors.
Herbs: Dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning enhance the savory flavor profile.
Vegetables: Other vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers can be added for extra nutrients and texture.
Butter: A tablespoon or two of butter adds richness and a silky texture to the sauce.
Salt and Pepper: To taste, essential for seasoning all the components of the dish.
The Slow Cooker Magic: An Effortless Cooking Process
The beauty of this recipe lies in its hands-off approach, thanks to the magic of the slow cooker:
Prepare the Slow Cooker: Lightly grease the bottom of your slow cooker.
Layer the Ingredients: Add the chopped potatoes, chicken ham, and onion to the slow cooker.
Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth (if using). Add minced garlic, dried herbs, salt, and pepper to taste. If using other vegetables, add them at this stage.
Cook on Low: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours, or until the potatoes are tender.
Add Butter (Optional): If desired, stir in a tablespoon or two of butter during the last 30 minutes of cooking for added richness.
Serve Hot: Once the potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded, serve the dish hot.
Serving Suggestions for a Complete Meal:
Slow Cooker Chicken Ham and Potatoes is a versatile dish that can be served on its own or with a variety of sides:
Green Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
Steamed Vegetables: Steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus add a healthy and colorful side dish.
Cornbread: A classic Southern pairing.
Tips for Slow Cooker Success:
Don’t Overcook: Cooking on low heat ensures the potatoes don’t become mushy.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dish before serving and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper as needed.
Use Quality Ingredients: The flavor of the chicken ham and potatoes will shine through, so use the best quality you can find.
Add Vegetables in Chunks: If adding other vegetables, cut them into large chunks so they don’t become too soft during the slow-cooking process.
Make it Ahead: This dish can be kept warm in the slow cooker on the “warm” setting for a few hours.
Conclusion: A Simple and Satisfying Slow Cooker Classic
Slow Cooker Chicken Ham and Potatoes is a testament to the fact that delicious meals don’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With its simple ingredients and effortless slow cooker preparation, this dish is a true weeknight winner. Whether you’re looking for a comforting family meal or a hassle-free dish to impress guests, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. So, gather your ingredients, turn on your slow cooker, and get ready to enjoy a hearty and flavorful meal with minimal effort!