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When Friday evening rolls around, the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. After a long week, it’s time to relax, unwind, and enjoy a comforting meal with minimal effort.
Enter the slow cooker – your ultimate kitchen helper for stress-free meals.
Slow cooker recipes are perfect for busy Fridays, as they allow you to prep your ingredients early in the day, set it, and forget it until dinner time.
Whether you’re craving savory stews, hearty chilis, or comforting casseroles, the slow cooker is a game-changer for easy, delicious meals.
In this blog post, we’ve rounded up over 35 mouthwatering Friday slow cooker recipes that will make your evenings easier and more enjoyable.
These recipes are packed with flavor, require little prep, and are perfect for unwinding after a busy week.
From chicken and beef dishes to vegetarian options, these recipes cater to all tastes and dietary preferences.
Get ready to indulge in some cozy, flavorful dishes without the hassle!
35+ Easy Friday Slow Cooker Recipes for a Stress-Free Weekend
Friday nights are meant for relaxation, and cooking should be the last thing on your mind after a long week.
These 35+ slow cooker recipes are designed to make your Friday dinner routine effortless while still providing comforting, delicious meals that your family will love.
From savory soups and stews to indulgent desserts, the slow cooker is your best friend for easy weeknight dinners.
So, put your feet up, let the slow cooker do its magic, and enjoy a meal that will satisfy without all the fuss.
Hearty Slow Cooker Beef Stew
This classic, comforting beef stew is the perfect dish for a chilly Friday evening. Packed with tender chunks of beef, carrots, potatoes, and a savory broth, it’s a one-pot meal that’s easy to prepare and requires minimal effort. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a rich and satisfying stew.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef stew meat, cubed
- 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 4 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons flour (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, sear the beef stew meat over medium-high heat until browned on all sides. Transfer to the slow cooker.
- Add the carrots, potatoes, onion, and garlic to the slow cooker.
- Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Stir to combine and season with salt and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
- If you prefer a thicker stew, mix 2 tablespoons of flour with a bit of water to create a slurry, then stir it into the stew and cook on high for 30 more minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
This hearty beef stew is a great way to wrap up the week, offering both comfort and flavor with minimal prep time. It’s perfect for those busy Fridays when you want a wholesome, satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The leftovers are just as good the next day, making it an ideal make-ahead dish for the weekend.
Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
These slow-cooked BBQ chicken sandwiches are a crowd-pleaser, with tender shredded chicken smothered in tangy barbecue sauce and served on soft buns. This simple recipe is perfect for a casual Friday night meal or a quick weeknight dinner, requiring minimal ingredients and effort while delivering maximum flavor.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite variety)
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 hamburger buns
- Coleslaw (optional, for topping)
Instructions:
- Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker and pour over the barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, and sliced onions. Season with salt and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Shred the chicken using two forks and stir it into the sauce, making sure the meat is well-coated.
- Serve the shredded chicken on hamburger buns, and top with coleslaw if desired.
Slow cooker BBQ chicken sandwiches are a perfect, no-fuss dish to kick off your weekend. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a mouthwatering meal that’s both savory and satisfying. The beauty of this recipe is in its versatility—serve it with a variety of sides like potato salad, fries, or a simple green salad for a complete meal. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends, this dish is sure to impress.
Slow Cooker Vegetarian Chili
A hearty and flavorful vegetarian chili, packed with beans, tomatoes, and spices, this slow cooker recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a meat-free but satisfying meal. The best part? It requires little hands-on effort but is bursting with robust flavors. It’s ideal for a cozy Friday dinner or a make-ahead meal for the weekend.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups dried kidney beans (or 3 cans, drained and rinsed)
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (14 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14 oz) corn kernels, drained
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- If using dried beans, soak them overnight and drain before adding to the slow cooker. If using canned beans, simply rinse and drain them.
- Add the soaked beans (or canned beans), diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, bell pepper, onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) into the slow cooker.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and stir everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours, until the beans are tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
This vegetarian chili is an excellent option for anyone seeking a plant-based dinner that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. The slow cooker ensures the beans and vegetables are perfectly tender, while the rich spices infuse the dish with warmth and depth. Serve with cornbread, avocado slices, or a dollop of sour cream for a comforting and filling meal that will please everyone at the table. It’s a great dish to make ahead and can easily be stored for leftovers to enjoy throughout the weekend.
Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken
This creamy Tuscan chicken is a flavorful and decadent dish, with tender chicken breasts simmered in a rich, creamy sauce filled with garlic, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and Italian herbs. It’s the perfect comfort food for a Friday night when you want something easy but delicious. Pair it with pasta, rice, or even crusty bread to soak up all the delicious sauce.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- In a small bowl, mix together the heavy cream, chicken broth, garlic, Italian seasoning, basil, and red pepper flakes. Pour the mixture over the chicken.
- Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach to the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Once the chicken is cooked, shred it with two forks and stir it into the creamy sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
This creamy Tuscan chicken is a rich and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a Friday evening when you’re craving something indulgent. The slow cooker makes it incredibly easy to prepare, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully as the chicken cooks. Serve it over pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice for a complete and comforting meal that feels like a special treat without much effort.
Slow Cooker Vegetable Curry
This slow cooker vegetable curry is a vibrant and fragrant dish packed with a variety of vegetables and aromatic spices, simmered in coconut milk. It’s a healthy and satisfying meal that’s perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors and a little heat. The slow cooking process allows the spices to develop deeply, making it a rich, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a meat-free Friday dinner.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cauliflower florets
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Add the cauliflower, potatoes, carrots, and green beans to the slow cooker.
- In a separate bowl, combine the coconut milk, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, curry powder, turmeric, cumin, cinnamon, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Pour the mixture over the vegetables in the slow cooker. Stir everything together and season with salt and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
This slow cooker vegetable curry is a healthy, hearty, and flavorful option for a Friday dinner. With the richness of coconut milk and the complexity of spices, it’s a satisfying dish that can be enjoyed by vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. The slow cooking process allows the vegetables to absorb the spices deeply, creating a dish that’s as flavorful as it is comforting. Serve it with basmati rice or naan for a complete, cozy meal.
Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings
Chicken and dumplings is the ultimate comfort food, and this slow cooker version takes all the hassle out of making it. With tender chicken, vegetables, and a creamy broth, the fluffy dumplings cook right on top for a hearty and satisfying meal. It’s an easy and delicious way to bring warmth and comfort to your Friday night dinner.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (10 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker and add the chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Once the chicken is cooked, shred it with two forks and stir it back into the soup.
- In a separate bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, milk, and melted butter to form the dumpling batter.
- Spoon the dumpling batter over the soup, making sure to cover the surface. Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for an additional 30-45 minutes, until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Slow cooker chicken and dumplings is the epitome of comfort food, offering a cozy and hearty meal that’s perfect for a Friday night. The slow cooking process infuses the chicken and vegetables with flavor, while the dumplings add a delightful, pillowy texture that pairs perfectly with the creamy broth. This dish is a complete meal in itself, but you can serve it with a side of bread for extra comfort. It’s an easy, satisfying way to end your week on a delicious note.
Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli
Beef and broccoli is a classic takeout dish that’s made even better with this easy slow cooker recipe. The beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, and the broccoli stays vibrant and fresh. The savory sauce made with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger adds a depth of flavor that’s perfect for pairing with steamed rice. It’s an ideal Friday night meal for those who crave Asian-inspired flavors without the hassle of going out.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup oyster sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening)
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions:
- Place the sliced flank steak in the slow cooker.
- In a separate bowl, combine the beef broth, soy sauce, oyster sauce, garlic, ginger, and brown sugar. Pour the mixture over the beef in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender.
- About 30 minutes before serving, add the broccoli florets to the slow cooker, stirring them into the sauce.
- For a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with a small amount of water to create a slurry, then stir it into the sauce and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes on high.
- Serve the beef and broccoli over rice.
This slow cooker beef and broccoli recipe is a quick and easy way to enjoy a restaurant-quality dish at home. The beef is tender, and the broccoli retains its crisp texture, while the savory sauce is rich and flavorful. It’s the perfect meal for a busy Friday night, offering comfort and satisfying flavors with minimal prep work. Pair it with some steamed rice for a complete dinner that feels like a special treat.
Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers
Sausage and peppers is a classic Italian-American dish that’s simple yet packed with flavor. In this slow cooker version, the sausages are infused with the savory goodness of peppers, onions, and tomatoes, creating a deliciously hearty meal. Perfect for a Friday night dinner, this dish can be served on its own or in hoagie rolls for a delicious sandwich-style meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 Italian sausage links (sweet or spicy)
- 2 bell peppers, sliced
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Hoagie rolls or crusty bread (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
- Place the sausages in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add the sliced peppers, onion, crushed tomatoes, garlic, oregano, and basil on top of the sausages. Season with salt and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the sausages are fully cooked and tender.
- If you prefer a slightly crisped sausage, you can remove them from the slow cooker and sear them in a hot pan for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the sausage and peppers in hoagie rolls or alongside some crusty bread.
Slow cooker sausage and peppers is a deliciously hearty meal that requires very little hands-on time. The sausages are tender, infused with the savory flavors of peppers, onions, and tomatoes, making it the perfect Friday night dinner. Whether served in a sandwich or as a stand-alone meal, this dish is satisfying and full of rich flavors. It’s an easy, no-fuss option that’s great for both weeknight dinners and casual get-togethers.
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Tacos
Pulled pork tacos are a flavorful and crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for Friday night dinners. With just a few ingredients and a slow cooker, you can make tender, flavorful pulled pork that’s ideal for tacos. The slow cooking process enhances the spices, creating a deliciously smoky and spicy pork that pairs wonderfully with fresh toppings like cilantro, lime, and avocado.
Ingredients:
- 3 pounds pork shoulder (or pork butt), trimmed
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup vegetable broth
- Corn tortillas, for serving
- Fresh cilantro, lime wedges, avocado, and salsa for topping
Instructions:
- Rub the pork shoulder with the chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper, making sure the meat is evenly coated.
- Place the seasoned pork in the slow cooker and pour in the orange juice, apple cider vinegar, and vegetable broth.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shredded.
- Once cooked, shred the pork using two forks and stir it into the juices from the slow cooker.
- Warm the corn tortillas and assemble the tacos, adding the pulled pork and your favorite toppings like cilantro, lime wedges, avocado, and salsa.
These slow cooker pulled pork tacos are the perfect way to end a busy week with a flavorful and satisfying meal. The pork is incredibly tender, infused with smoky and spicy flavors, and the toppings add freshness and crunch. These tacos are easily customizable, making them a hit with everyone at the table. Serve them with a side of rice, beans, or a light salad for a complete meal that will leave everyone satisfied.
Slow Cooker BBQ Ribs
Nothing says Friday night like a plate of sticky, tender, and flavorful BBQ ribs. This slow cooker BBQ ribs recipe allows you to enjoy fall-off-the-bone ribs without the hassle of grilling. The ribs are seasoned with a smoky dry rub, then slow-cooked in a tangy barbecue sauce that caramelizes into a perfect glaze. Whether you enjoy them as a main dish or as part of a casual meal, these ribs are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 2 racks of baby back ribs
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
Instructions:
- Remove the membrane from the ribs by lifting it with a knife and pulling it off. This step is optional but helps make the ribs more tender.
- Mix together the paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder in a small bowl to make the dry rub.
- Rub the seasoning mixture all over the ribs, covering them evenly.
- Place the ribs in the slow cooker, curled around the sides if necessary.
- Pour the barbecue sauce over the ribs, ensuring they’re well-coated.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the ribs are tender and the meat is pulling away from the bone.
- For extra caramelization, you can place the ribs under the broiler for a few minutes after slow cooking to get a crispy, sticky finish.
These slow cooker BBQ ribs are a total game-changer for a Friday night feast. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to fully develop, resulting in tender, juicy ribs that are full of flavor. The BBQ sauce adds the perfect balance of sweetness and tang, while the dry rub enhances the meat with a smoky depth. Serve these ribs with your favorite sides like coleslaw or cornbread for a complete, satisfying meal that’s ideal for a laid-back Friday evening.
Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala
If you’re in the mood for a flavorful, aromatic dish, this slow cooker chicken tikka masala is the perfect choice. The chicken is marinated in a yogurt and spice blend, then slow-cooked in a rich, creamy tomato sauce. The slow cooker allows the spices to infuse the chicken, resulting in a comforting and fragrant dish that’s perfect for a cozy Friday dinner. Serve it with basmati rice or naan for a complete meal.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds chicken breasts, cut into cubes
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked basmati rice or naan for serving
Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine the chicken cubes with the yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, turmeric, coriander, garam masala, chili powder, ginger, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Stir to coat the chicken evenly. Marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for more flavor).
- Transfer the marinated chicken into the slow cooker and add the crushed tomatoes. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender.
- Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes on low to warm the sauce.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
This slow cooker chicken tikka masala is the perfect dish for a Friday night when you crave something flavorful and indulgent. The slow cooking process allows the spices to deepen, making the chicken tender and full of flavor. The creamy sauce pairs wonderfully with basmati rice or naan, making it a complete and satisfying meal. Whether you’re new to Indian cuisine or a seasoned fan, this dish is sure to become a favorite.
Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne
Chili con carne is the ultimate comfort food, and this slow cooker version is perfect for a relaxing Friday evening. This hearty dish is packed with tender beef, beans, tomatoes, and a flavorful blend of spices. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the flavors to meld together into a thick, rich chili that can be enjoyed with cornbread, rice, or simply on its own. It’s a perfect dish for a cozy night in or to feed a crowd.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Drain the excess fat and transfer the beef to the slow cooker.
- Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, garlic, kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), and beef broth to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, allowing the chili to thicken and the flavors to develop.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve with your favorite chili toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions.
This slow cooker chili con carne is the ultimate comfort food, bringing together savory beef, beans, and spices into a thick and hearty dish. The slow cooker allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, making each spoonful rich and satisfying. Whether you’re serving it to family or enjoying it as a solo dinner, this chili is the perfect way to wrap up the week. Pair it with cornbread or enjoy it as is for a cozy, fulfilling meal.
Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff
Beef stroganoff is a creamy and comforting dish that’s perfect for a Friday night dinner. This slow cooker version allows the beef to become tender and infused with the rich flavors of onions, garlic, and mushrooms. The creamy sauce, made with sour cream and beef broth, is the perfect complement to the beef, creating a luscious, indulgent dish that pairs wonderfully with egg noodles or mashed potatoes.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds beef stew meat, cubed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Egg noodles or mashed potatoes, for serving
Instructions:
- Place the beef stew meat, chopped onion, garlic, and mushrooms in the slow cooker.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the beef and vegetables in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender.
- About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the sour cream and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes until the sauce is warm and creamy.
- Serve the beef stroganoff over egg noodles or mashed potatoes.
This slow cooker beef stroganoff is the epitome of comfort food. The beef becomes tender and infused with the creamy, savory sauce, creating a dish that’s rich and satisfying. The addition of sour cream gives the sauce its signature smoothness, and it pairs perfectly with egg noodles or mashed potatoes. This meal is ideal for a cozy Friday evening, offering both flavor and comfort with minimal prep.
Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings
Chicken and dumplings is a classic comfort food that’s easy to make in the slow cooker. This recipe combines tender chicken, vegetables, and a rich broth, all topped with fluffy dumplings. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the flavors to develop and the chicken to cook perfectly. This dish is hearty and satisfying, making it a great choice for a warm and comforting Friday night dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Place the chicken breasts, chicken broth, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
- About 30 minutes before serving, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, milk, and melted butter to make the dumpling batter.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter onto the surface of the soup. Cover and cook for an additional 20-30 minutes on high until the dumplings are cooked through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve.
Slow cooker chicken and dumplings is a warm and comforting dish that’s perfect for a cozy Friday night. The chicken becomes incredibly tender, and the vegetables add a nice depth of flavor to the broth. The fluffy dumplings on top are the highlight of this dish, soaking up the delicious broth while remaining soft and light. This dish is ideal for a stress-free, hearty dinner that the whole family will enjoy.
Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili
This slow cooker white chicken chili is a delicious twist on the classic chili, featuring tender chicken, white beans, and a creamy, mildly spicy broth. The slow cooker allows the flavors to meld together perfectly, making this dish a satisfying and easy choice for a Friday night dinner. With a kick of heat and a creamy texture, this chili is both comforting and flavorful, perfect for a casual meal or a dinner party.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans (such as cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (4 oz) green chilies, diced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cream cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
- Place the chicken breasts, white beans, onion, garlic, green chilies, chicken broth, cumin, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
- Add the cubed cream cheese and stir until it melts and combines into the broth, creating a creamy texture.
- Optional: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese for extra creaminess.
- Serve the white chicken chili with fresh cilantro for garnish.
This slow cooker white chicken chili is a comforting, creamy, and flavorful meal that’s perfect for a chilly Friday evening. The chicken is tender, the beans add heartiness, and the creamy broth provides a satisfying texture that everyone will love. The mild heat from the green chilies and spices makes this chili flavorful without being too spicy. It’s a great option for those looking for a twist on traditional chili, offering a creamy and comforting dinner that’s sure to please.
Note: More recipes are coming soon!