Delicious Crock Pot Greens and Chicken Recipe You’ll Love

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Are you looking to add more greens to your diet but not sure where to start? Look no further! This crock pot greens and chicken recipe is the perfect addition to your weekly meal plan. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrition.

The slow-cooked collard greens, spinach and kale are a great source of vitamins and minerals that promote health and well-being. On top of that, the boneless skinless chicken breast adds a healthy dose of protein which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied.

This recipe is not only good for you, it’s also easy to make. Simply dump all the ingredients into your crock pot and let it cook on high for three hours or low for eight hours – it’s that simple!

And the best part? You can customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. Don’t have collard greens on hand? Swap them out for mustard greens or turnip greens instead. Looking for a vegetarian option? Skip the chicken and use black-eyed peas or smoked turkey wings instead.

So, what are you waiting for? Let’s grab our crock pots and get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crock Pot Greens and Chicken
Crock Pot Greens and Chicken

This crockpot collard greens and chicken recipe is more than just a delicious blend of ingredients – it’s a celebration of soul food! Few dishes come close to the hearty, earthy, and satisfying flavor of freshly cooked collard greens. Throw in some juicy chicken meat, a pinch of salt and pepper, and you’ve got yourself a meal that hits all the right notes.

If you’re looking for a recipe that’s both healthy and indulgent, this one fits the bill perfectly. The boneless, skinless chicken breasts are low in fat but high in protein, giving your body the fuel it needs without excess calories or cholesterol. Meanwhile, the fresh greens bring an array of health benefits to the table – from boosting digestion to fighting inflammation.

But let’s be honest here: what really sets this recipe apart is its mouthwatering taste. The slow-cooked greens meld with the savory chicken broth and tangy apple cider vinegar for a flavor explosion that’ll make your tastebuds sing. You won’t even miss the added sugar or processed ingredients found in less authentic recipes!

Plus, as with any great crockpot dish, this recipe practically makes itself. All you need is some patience and a few hours on high heat – no fussing over the stove or worrying about overcooking. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, or potluck dinners where you want to show off your culinary skills.

So whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out in the kitchen, give this crockpot collard greens and chicken recipe a try. Your taste buds – and your body – will thank you!

Ingredient List

A hearty and nutritious meal!
A hearty and nutritious meal!

Here are all the necessary ingredients to prepare this delicious slow cooker collard greens and chicken recipe:

  • 6 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves – I recommend using high-quality organic chicken for the best results.

  • 1/2 cup of water

  • 1/2 cup of chicken broth – use low-sodium broth for a healthier option.

  • 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar – this adds a tangy and bright flavor to the dish.

  • 1 cup of spinach leaves – packed with nutrients and antioxidants, spinach works perfectly in this recipe.

  • 1 cup of chopped kale

  • 1 cup of chopped collard greens – for an authentic Southern flavor, use fresh collard greens that can withstand long cooking times.

  • Salt and pepper – for seasoning to taste according to your preference.

Optional ingredients:

  • 2 pieces of smoked turkey wings or ham hocks – add depth and richness of flavor to this dish.

  • 1/4 cup of black-eyed peas – adds a subtle sweetness and texture to the greens.

  • 2 cups Tuscan chicken breast or cooked baked chicken or even pieces of cooked chicken thighs.

  • 1 tablespoon of mustard greens – adds a mild but distinctive spiciness or an extra kick of heat to the dish, use depending on how spicy you want the dish to be.

  • Smoked ham can also replace any other meat in this recipe if you do not eat pork.

  • Mixed greens – feel free to mix up your greens using turnip greens, mustard greens, or even beet greens depending on what you have available or your tastes.

The Recipe How-To

The ultimate comfort food!
The ultimate comfort food!

Now that we have got everything we need, let’s start cooking using your crockpot.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Trim any visible fat from 2 boneless skinless chicken breast halves and cut them into pieces. Additionally, season the chicken with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 2: Add the Greens

Greens such as spinach, kale, and collard greens are perfect for this slow cooker recipe. Rinse them thoroughly then remove the stems and rough chop them. Then add it to the crockpot.

Step 3: Add Broth and Vinegar

Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar, whisk well until evenly blended.

Step 4: Add Ranch Seasoning

In a small mixing bowl, combine a packet of store-bought ranch seasoning mix with 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper Stir until everything is well mixed together.

Step 5: Combine All Ingredients

After that, place the seasoned chicken pieces on top of the vegetables in the crockpot. Then pour in the ranch seasoning mix over it followed by adding one or two tablespoons of water.

Step 6: Cook on Low for Hours

Cover your slow cooker with the lid securely then cook everything on high for about three hours or low for about eight hours.

Congratulations! You can now call yourself a slow-cooker expert because you know how to make delicious Crockpot Greens and Chicken Recipe.

Substitutions and Variations

Get your greens in with this delicious dish!
Get your greens in with this delicious dish!

Cooking is all about experimenting with ingredients and making something unique. While collard greens, kale, and spinach are the primary greens used in this recipe, you can switch them out with different greens such as mustard greens, turnip greens, or mixed greens to create your dish’s distinctive flavor.

If you’re not a fan of chicken, try replacing boneless skinless chicken breast halves with chicken thighs, baked chicken, or even tuscan chicken breast. Additionally, if ham hocks are hard to find, smoked turkey wings or smoked ham can be used as an alternative.

For those looking for a vegetarian option, replace the chicken broth with water or vegetable broth to keep the rich flavor. Instead of meat-based broth, use apple cider vinegar and water as an alternative. You can add black eyed peas to the recipe to provide protein to your vegetarian meal.

If you prefer a spicy twist on this recipe, add some hot sauce or chili flakes for a tasty kick.

Lastly, you can experiment further by adding sliced tomatoes or mushrooms; they’re an excellent complement to the greens in this dish.

To sum up: feel free to experiment with different combinations of flavors and textures to create your version of this recipe.

Serving and Pairing

Perfect for a cozy night in!
Perfect for a cozy night in!

Once your crockpot collard greens and chicken are fully cooked, it is time to serve and enjoy all the flavors you’ve been waiting for. This recipe makes a fantastic main dish that is sure to be appreciated by anyone who enjoys hearty and healthy food.

When it comes to how to serve this delicious meal, it is hard to go wrong. The savory flavors of the chicken and greens pair excellently with many different side dishes. You could opt for a classic side like cornbread, rice or mashed potatoes. A lighter option could be roasted vegetables, which provide an excellent crunch alongside softer greens.

Additionally, you can complement the greens with some protein-heavy sides like baked chicken thighs or turkey wings if you want a complete meal.

For beverages, I suggest pairing the dish with aromatic white wines such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. If you prefer beer, amber ale or light lagers are refreshing choices that won’t overpower the subtle flavors of this slow-cooker recipe.

Finally, when serving this collard green chicken stew as leftovers, make sure to reheat using a microwave or stovetop to preserve its nutritional value and taste. For added flavor during reheating, add some chicken broth or apple cider vinegar.

Overall this recipe pairs well with many different sides and drinks making it incredibly versatile to your preferences. So share it with friends and family and discover your favorite ways to enjoy these amazing crock pot greens and chicken!

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

Tasty and easy to make!
Tasty and easy to make!

One of the best things about this crockpot collard greens and chicken recipe is that it can be made ahead and reheated for later enjoyment. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights when you don’t have a lot of time to cook.

To make this dish ahead of time, simply follow the instructions as normal, but stop cooking when the collard greens are tender and the chicken is cooked through. Once the dish has cooled down, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the fridge. It will keep well for up to three days.

When you are ready to reheat the collard greens and chicken, simply transfer the contents of the container into a saucepan and reheat over medium heat. Be sure to add enough liquid (either water or additional chicken broth) to keep everything moist while reheating.

If you find that the collard greens have become too soft or overcooked during the reheating process, try adding some fresh raw spinach or kale to help retain some texture.

Another great option for storing this dish is by freezing it. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags with all air removed. You can freeze this dish for up to three months.

To reheat frozen collard greens and chicken, let it thaw overnight in the fridge then reheat on low on a stove-top until warmed through. Stirring every couple of minutes will help ensure equal heating throughout.

By using these make-ahead and storing techniques, you can enjoy this tasty crockpot collard greens and chicken recipe whenever you like without having to spend time making it fresh every time.

Tips for Perfect Results

A one-pot wonder!
A one-pot wonder!

A perfect slow-cooked greens and chicken recipe is a culinary art that needs proper attention to cooking times and techniques. To make the most of your crockpot collard greens and chicken recipe, follow these tips that guarantee perfect results every time.

Firstly, avoid overcooking the collard greens. Collard greens are the main ingredient in this recipe, and they can turn unappetizingly mushy if cooked for too long. To maintain their crisp texture, set your slow cooker on high and cook them for a maximum of 3 hours or low heat for 8 hours.

It is also important not to leave raw chicken in the slow cooker for too long. To avoid food safety risks, ensure that you only cook boneless, skinless chicken breast halves for up to 4 hours on high heat or 8 hours on low heat.

Furthermore, to infuse more flavor into your dish, swap water with chicken broth as your primary liquid component. For additional tangy undertones, add apple cider vinegar without overwhelming the other flavors in the recipe.

For a healthier option, choose boneless skinless chicken breast halves instead of thighs as they have less fat and fewer calories. This substitution allows you to enjoy a guilt-free meal without compromising on taste or texture.

Another tip is that smoked meats like ham hocks or smoked turkey wings provide an excellent flavor boost to the dish. They infuse smokiness while giving the dish a meatier taste while still maintaining its healthy trait.

Finally, when it comes time to season your crock pot collard greens and chicken recipe, avoid using too much salt initially as it will concentrate during the slow-cooking process. Instead, add salt and pepper gradually to reach your desired taste gradually.

By following these tips for perfect results, you’ll be savoring the best healthy collard greens and chicken dish ever made from pot recipes yummly!

FAQ

Now that we have gone through the ingredient list and recipe how-to, it is time to address some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about this crock pot greens and chicken recipe. Not only will this section help you overcome the most common challenges, but it will also provide additional information to improve your overall experience in the kitchen. Keep reading to become a pro at cooking this delicious dish!

Is it safe to put raw chicken in a crock pot with vegetables?

Believe it or not, it is possible to cook vegetables and raw chicken together, and ensure that they are both safe to consume. All you need to do is make sure that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F. If you are using a slow cooker for this recipe, you can set it on low and leave it for about 8-12 hours. By following these guidelines, you can rest assured that your meal will be both delicious and safe for consumption.

How long to cook collard greens in crock pot on low?

Looking to prepare a delicious batch of slow cooked collard greens? Fear not, for it is an easy and satisfying dish to make. To ensure optimal cooking, you have the option to set your slow cooker to low heat for approximately 6-7 hours, or on high heat for approximately 3-4 hours. Simply choose the method that works best for you and enjoy the scrumptious results on your plate!

What makes chicken rubbery in crockpot?

Tough, dry and overcooked chicken is a prevalent problem that we often observe, and it usually stems from the use of an oversized Crock-Pot. To avoid this issue, we provide recommended slow cooker sizes with each of our recipes.

Can you overcook collard greens?

Cooking collard greens requires care and attention to prevent overcooking. Overcooking collard greens can result in an undesirable sulfur smell, much like other cruciferous vegetables. There are various methods to cook collard greens, including steaming, boiling, braising, and sautéing.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, this Crock Pot Greens and Chicken recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious and healthy weeknight meal. With its combination of spinach, kale, and collard greens, it’s packed with nutrients and flavor that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters.

The slow cook method helps to infuse the chicken with flavor, creating a perfect protein option that will leave you feeling full and satisfied. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make – simply toss everything into the slow cooker and let it work its magic!

Don’t be afraid to experiment with substitutions and variations, such as using smoked turkey wings or ham hocks for added depth and richness. And while it’s a great option for an everyday meal, it can also make a wonderful addition to any table spread for special occasions.

Overall, this recipe is proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring or difficult. It’s never too late to start incorporating more greens into your diet, and this Crock Pot Greens and Chicken recipe is a great place to start. So dust off your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy this delicious dish. Trust us – your taste buds (and your body) will thank you!

Crock Pot Greens and Chicken

Crock Pot Greens and Chicken Recipe

A simple light meal in the slow cooker that is bold in taste. Mustard greens, especially, have a bold, peppery flavor. I like to use the pre-washed, packaged greens that have the long, thick stems removed and have been coarsely chopped. The dish is low in fat and low in net carbs.
5 from 1 vote
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Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 6 hrs
Course Main Course
Cuisine Southern (US)
Servings 2 quarts cooked
Calories 153.4 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 14 12 ounces spinach or 12 ounces kale
  • 3 boneless skinless chicken breast halves or 24 ounces boneless skinless chicken breast halves
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or 1 ounce apple cider vinegar
  • 6 ounces water or 6 ounces chicken broth
  • salt and pepper

Instructions
 

  • Spray a 4 quart slow cooker crock with vegetable spray.
  • Fill with greens that have been washed, destemmed and coarsely chopped or torn,
  • Cut chicken breast halves in large pieces and lay on top of the greens.
  • Add vinegar, water and seasonings.
  • Cook on low for 5 to 6 hours or until chicken is 170F internally and greens are tender.

Your Own Notes

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Nutrition

Serving: 334gCalories: 153.4kcalCarbohydrates: 9.7gProtein: 24.1gFat: 2.7gSaturated Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 56.6mgSodium: 153.3mgFiber: 6.5gSugar: 3.2g
Keyword chicken, Easy, Greens, healthy, Low Cholesterol, Meat, Poultry, Vegetable, Very Low Carbs
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Chef Chloe

Chloe

Chloe is passionate about creating unique dishes that draw on the flavors of her favorite cultures. She loves experimenting with new ingredients and pushing the boundaries of traditional recipes. Her enthusiasm for cooking is infectious, and she is always eager to share her creations with friends and family.