ground chicken crock pot recipe

The Best ground chicken crock pot recipe

Oh, this ground chicken crock pot recipe is one of those things that just makes my heart happy every time I pull it out of the slow cooker. It’s been a staple in our house for years now, and honestly, it’s one of those meals that doesn’t just fill my kitchen with great food—it fills my soul. I love it because it’s so simple, but it still comes together with all the flavors you’d expect from a well-made dish without any fuss. My kids, especially my teenagers, swear by it—they’ll eat it every single time, and honestly, so do I. It’s the kind of meal that doesn’t require any fancy skills, but it still tastes like home, like something you’d make for a big family dinner or even just a quiet night in. Plus, it’s got this great balance of protein and veggies that makes it a real winner for health-conscious eaters too. No one has to worry about feeling left out when there’s a ton of flavor packed into something that’s actually good for them. And the best part? It’s so easy to customize—you can add whatever veggies you’ve got on hand, or swap out spices to fit your taste. It’s that kind of recipe that just works, no matter what day it is.

Easy Ground Chicken Crock Pot Stew

4.6 from 1024 votes

A hearty and flavorful stew made with tender ground chicken, vegetables, and a rich tomato-based sauce, perfect for a comforting meal. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

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Prep Time20 mins

Cook Time3 hours

Resting Time0 mins

Total Time3 hours 20 mins

Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken and Base

• 1.5 lbs ground chicken
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (14.5 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf

For the Topping

• 1 cup cooked brown rice
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley

👨‍🍳Directions

1. 1 In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, olive oil, onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Mix well to coat everything evenly.
2. 2 Transfer the mixture to the crock pot. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth, thyme, oregano, and bay leaf. Mix thoroughly.
3. 3 Cover the crock pot and cook on low heat for 3 hours or on high heat for 2 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce has thickened.
4. 4 Remove the bay leaf before serving. Serve the stew hot, topped with cooked brown rice, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped fresh parsley.

🔧Equipment

• Crock Pot
• Large mixing bowl
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14.5💛Saturated Fat: 4.5❤️Cholesterol: 120🧂Sodium: 850🌾Total Carbs: 45🥦Dietary Fiber: 7🍬Sugars: 10🥩Protein: 35

📝Notes

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This ground chicken crock pot recipe is always a go-to for me because it’s simple, flavorful, and makes a whole meal out of something quick and easy. It’s perfect for family gatherings because it keeps cooking while you’re busy, so there’s no last-minute stress, and everyone ends up with tender, delicious food that tastes like it took hours to prepare. Plus, it’s versatile—works for weeknight dinners or big holiday spreads without needing extra effort.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Chicken Crock Pot Stew

1. What is ground chicken, and why is it a good choice for crock pot recipes?

Ground chicken is a lean protein made from finely chopped chicken breast or thigh meat. It’s a versatile ingredient that works well in crock pot recipes because it absorbs flavors easily, stays moist when cooked slowly, and has a lower fat content compared to other ground meats like beef or pork. It’s also a great option for those watching their calorie or fat intake while still enjoying hearty, flavorful meals.

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2. Can I substitute other ground meats or proteins in this recipe, and if so, what are the best alternatives?

Yes, you can substitute ground chicken in this recipe, but keep in mind that the texture and flavor might differ. Some good alternatives include: – Ground turkey (similar lean profile but slightly drier when cooked) – Ground beef (80/20 or leaner) (better for richer flavor but can dry out more) – Lentils or black beans (for a vegetarian option, though texture will vary) – Tofu or tempeh (works well in vegan versions but may need extra binding)

For best results, adjust liquid levels slightly if substituting a drier protein.

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3. How do I ensure the ground chicken stays moist in the crock pot without drying out?

To keep ground chicken tender and juicy in the crock pot: – Use enough liquid (about ½ to ¾ cup broth, water, or sauce per pound of meat). – Add a little acid (like lemon juice, vinegar, or tomato paste) to tenderize the meat. – Sauté the chicken first (sear or cook lightly in a pan before adding to the crock pot to remove excess moisture). – Use a lower setting (600°F or lower if possible) to prevent overcooking. – Add aromatics (onions, garlic, and spices) to help retain moisture. – Cover partially (if the crock pot lid isn’t tight, add a small bowl or plate to prevent steam from escaping).

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4. What spices or seasonings work best with ground chicken in this recipe?

Ground chicken pairs well with a mix of mild to moderately flavorful spices. Some classic combinations include: – Italian-inspired: Garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt. – Taco-style: Cumin, chili powder, paprika, garlic, and a splash of lime juice. – Mediterranean: Olive oil, dried herbs (thyme, rosemary, parsley), lemon zest, and a touch of smoked paprika. – Asian-inspired: Soy sauce, ginger, garlic, sesame oil, and a hint of honey or sriracha. – Simple & savory: Salt, pepper, black peppercorn, and a dash of smoked salt.

For extra depth, consider adding fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or green onions at the end.

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5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time, and how should I store it?

Yes, this crock pot ground chicken dish can be made ahead and stored properly for up to 4 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer (after thawing, it can be reheated in the crock pot).

Storage tips: – Refrigerator: Transfer to an airtight container after cooking and store at room temperature for 2 hours before refrigeration. – Freezing: Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some headspace. Label with the date. – Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating in the crock pot on low (4-5 hours) or until hot and bubbly.

Note: If freezing, add a splash of extra liquid (like broth or water) before freezing to prevent dryness during reheating.