At Yumi Meals, my passion for cooking was born in my grandmother’s kitchen, where slow, flavorful meals brought people together. That same love shines through in these chicken breast and vegetable slow cooker recipes—easy, nourishing, and perfect for busy days. With minimal prep and wholesome ingredients like fresh herbs, carrots, potatoes, and tender chicken, this dish delivers comfort and convenience in one pot. Rooted in family tradition but designed for modern kitchens, it’s a go-to recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Why Chicken Breast and Vegetable Slow Cooker Recipes Are the Ultimate One-Pot Meal
– Minimal Effort, Maximum Flavor
What makes chicken breast and vegetable slow cooker recipes stand out is their unbeatable convenience. With just one pot and a few simple steps, you can create a dish packed with slow-developed flavor and heartwarming aroma. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting—just add the ingredients, turn it on, and let time do the magic.
Unlike stovetop cooking, where you have to monitor every detail, slow cooking lets you walk away. It’s the perfect “set-it-and-forget-it” approach for busy days, making it ideal for working parents, students, or anyone short on time but big on taste.
– Juicy Chicken Every Time
Chicken breast often gets a bad rap for being dry or bland. Not in a slow cooker. Cooking it slowly in broth alongside hearty vegetables keeps the chicken tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. The slow, steady heat helps the chicken absorb surrounding herbs and spices, transforming even the leanest cuts into moist, mouthwatering bites.
Print
Best chicken breast and vegetable slow cooker recipes At Home
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
- Category: Slowcooker
Description
This chicken breast and vegetable slow cooker recipes Dinner is everything you want for dinner made in one dish. Tender, juicy chicken and hearty, flavorful veggies are cooked with fresh herbs in a flavorful sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 onion diced
- 3 carrots diced
- 5 potatoes diced
- 3 celery stalks diced
- 3 sprigs fresh thyme
- 3 stems fresh sage
- 3 stems fresh rosemary
- 1 small bunch fresh oregano
- 8 bone-in chicken thighs
- Salt and pepper
- 1/3 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon fish sauce
- 2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger
- Pinch red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Place the butter, garlic, onions, carrots, potatoes, celery, and herbs in the insert of your slow cooker. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Pat the chicken dry and sprinkle generously with salt and pepper. Place on top of veggies in the slow cooker.
- In a small bowl, whisk together sauce ingredients and pour over the chicken.
- Place on high for 3 hours, or on low for 7 hours.
- Once done, preheat your broiler on high. Transfer chicken to a baking sheet and broil on high for 1-3 minutes to crisp up the chicken skin.
- Serve chicken with vegetables and extra sauce. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as desired.
Notes
Omit butter for dairy-free
You can add in different veggies, such as sweet potatoes or peppers, if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 517kcal
- Sugar: 6.8g
- Sodium: 501mg
- Fat: 23.3g
- Saturated Fat: 8.8g
- Carbohydrates: 50.8g
- Fiber: 8.5g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Whether you’re using bone-in thighs or boneless chicken breasts, slow cooking ensures every bite melts in your mouth.
– One Meal, Full Nutrition
With lean protein from chicken and nutrients from vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and celery, this dish hits all the major food groups. It’s a naturally balanced dinner, rich in vitamins, fiber, and protein—without needing side dishes or complicated meal planning.
If you want to boost the nutrition even further, try tossing in seasonal greens like kale or spinach near the end of cooking.
– Affordable Ingredients, Big Flavor
This recipe uses pantry staples and affordable ingredients, proving that you don’t need expensive groceries to eat well. Chicken breast, potatoes, carrots, and broth are accessible and budget-friendly—yet when cooked low and slow with aromatics and herbs, the result is a five-star flavor on a dime.
Looking for inspiration? Try our twist on budget-friendly slow-cooked meals in this Slow Cooker Recipes Using Ground Turkey collection.
– Great for Meal Prep and Leftovers
One of the best things about slow cooker recipes is how well they reheat. Make a big batch and store leftovers for lunch the next day, or freeze portions for a quick weeknight meal. This dish is even better the next day, as the flavors continue to develop overnight.
Don’t miss our cozy, crowd-pleasing Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes Recipe—another easy addition to your meal prep plan.
Key Ingredients for the Best Chicken Breast and Vegetable Slow Cooker Recipes
– Choosing the Right Chicken: Breast vs. Thighs
When making chicken breast and vegetable slow cooker recipes, choosing the right cut of chicken is essential. While bone-in thighs add rich flavor and fat, chicken breast offers a leaner protein that pairs perfectly with vegetables in a slow-cooked dish. It absorbs herbs and broth while staying tender if cooked just right.
Pro tip:
In slow cooker meals, chicken breast retains more moisture when it’s thicker. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F, and avoid overcooking to preserve texture and flavor.
– Hearty Vegetables That Build the Base
No great chicken breast and vegetable slow cooker recipe is complete without a medley of hearty vegetables. This recipe includes:
- Carrots: Sweet, colorful, and full of antioxidants
- Potatoes: A creamy starch that gives the dish body
- Celery: Adds freshness and crunch for contrast
You can always adapt chicken breast and vegetable slow cooker recipes to your liking by swapping in seasonal vegetables like green beans, butternut squash, or zucchini.
– Aromatics and Herbs That Transform Flavor
What makes chicken breast and vegetable slow cooker recipes feel gourmet is the layering of flavor from the start. Begin with:
- Garlic and onions – the aromatic base that flavors everything
- Fresh thyme, rosemary, sage, and oregano – these herbs release natural oils during the long cook, elevating every bite
You can use dried herbs, too, in a pinch. Just use less—about 1/3 the amount of fresh.
– The Secret Sauce Behind Every Slow Cooker Win
For many chicken breast and vegetable slow cooker recipes, the sauce is what ties it all together. Here’s what goes into this one:
Ingredient | Why It Works |
---|---|
Chicken broth | Keeps everything juicy and flavorful |
Fish sauce | Adds umami depth—don’t skip it! |
Fresh ginger | Gives a warm, comforting kick |
Red pepper flakes | Adds mild heat without overpowering |
Sea salt & black pepper | Balances and enhances every other flavor |
Want to add your own twist? Some cooks add coconut milk or cream toward the end to make their chicken breast and vegetable slow cooker recipes even richer.
– Butter for the Win
This dish begins with melted grass-fed butter, which coats the vegetables and intensifies the savory flavor. If you prefer dairy-free chicken breast and vegetable slow cooker recipes, simply substitute with avocado oil or olive oil—it still delivers great results.

Looking for more ways to elevate your dinner routine? Don’t miss our classic comfort twist with this Chicken and Waffles Recipe (Air Fryer)—a fun way to explore chicken dishes with new textures.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Chicken and Veggies in a Slow Cooker
– Prep Your Ingredients the Right Way
For the best chicken breast and vegetable slow cooker recipes, ingredient prep makes all the difference in texture and flavor. Start by cleaning and dicing your vegetables:
- Dice carrots, potatoes, and celery into uniform chunks so they cook evenly
- Mince garlic and dice onions for a rich aromatic base
- Dry the chicken breast with a paper towel and season well with salt and pepper—this simple step enhances flavor and ensures a beautifully browned finish if you decide to broil.
Next, strip the fresh thyme, sage, rosemary, and oregano from their stems—or tie them together into a bouquet garni for easy removal later.
– Layer Ingredients Strategically
Proper layering is essential in slow cooker cooking. Here’s how to structure your dish for the perfect texture and moisture balance:
- Bottom layer: Start with butter, garlic, onions, carrots, potatoes, celery, and all your herbs. Add a light sprinkle of salt and pepper.
- Top layer: Place seasoned chicken breasts (or thighs, if using) on top of the vegetable bed. This keeps the chicken above the broth, letting it steam instead of boil.
This structure is key in classic chicken breast and vegetable slow cooker recipes—it ensures your vegetables soak up all the juices without turning to mush.
– Whisk Up the Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together your sauce ingredients:
- Chicken broth
- Fish sauce
- Fresh grated ginger
- Red pepper flakes
- Sea salt and black pepper
Pour this flavorful mixture evenly over the chicken and veggies in your slow cooker. The herbs and aromatics will infuse into the sauce as it simmers, creating deep flavor with no extra work.
– Cook Low and Slow (or Fast if Needed)
Here’s the recommended cooking timeline for foolproof results:
Setting | Cook Time |
---|---|
High | 3 hours |
Low | 7 hours |
Chicken breast and vegetable slow cooker recipes are more forgiving on the low setting. This gives the meat time to absorb flavors and stay juicy, while the vegetables become perfectly tender without overcooking.
– Finish with a Broil for Crispy Skin (Optional)
If you’re using skin-on chicken (or thighs), take it one step further:
- Preheat your oven broiler on high
- Carefully remove cooked chicken from the slow cooker and place it on a baking sheet
- Broil for 1–3 minutes until the skin crisps up and turns golden
This step adds texture and that irresistible roasted flavor to your chicken breast and vegetable slow cooker recipe.
Craving more golden, crispy goodness? Check out our indulgent Chicken Cordon Bleu Air Fryer Recipe for a weeknight treat with crunch and comfort.
Tips, Tricks, and Variations for Chicken and Veggie Crock Pot Dinners
– Swap Your Veggies Seasonally
One of the best things about chicken breast and vegetable slow cooker recipes is how easily they adapt with seasonal produce. Don’t have potatoes or carrots on hand? Try these:
In Place Of | Try These Instead |
---|---|
Potatoes | Sweet potatoes, parsnips, or turnips |
Carrots | Butternut squash, bell peppers, or beets |
Celery | Fennel, leeks, or green beans |
This makes your slow cooker meals more exciting—and great for using up leftover veggies in the fridge.
– Add Creaminess or Spice
Want a creamier finish? Add one of the following during the final 30 minutes of cooking:
- ¼ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- ½ cup coconut milk for a dairy-free twist
- Stir in 2 tablespoons of cream cheese for a velvety, rich sauce with added depth
Prefer heat? Spice up your chicken breast and vegetable slow cooker recipes with:
- 1 diced jalapeño
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon chipotle powder for a smoky kick
– Flavor Boosters for Extra Depth
Looking to elevate the flavor profile? Try these simple add-ins:
- A splash of balsamic vinegar for tang
- A tablespoon of Dijon mustard for sharpness
- A handful of sun-dried tomatoes for umami
- Use 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning as a substitute if you don’t have fresh herbs on hand.
These additions make your chicken breast and veggies feel gourmet, even on a budget.
– Make It Low Carb or Keto-Friendly
Skip the potatoes and use:
- Cauliflower florets
- Turnips
- Zucchini or squash
These substitutions cut down the carbs while keeping the dish hearty and satisfying.
– Prep Tips to Save Time
Want to make your chicken breast and vegetable slow cooker recipes even faster?
- Chop veggies the night before and store in a ziplock bag
- Pre-mix your sauce ingredients and refrigerate overnight
- Use frozen diced onions or mixed vegetables if you’re short on time
These hacks help you toss everything into the slow cooker in 5 minutes or less in the morning.
Looking for even more simple slow cooker wins? Don’t miss our Slow Cooker Recipes Using Ground Turkey—a healthy protein-packed option for weeknights.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Breast and Vegetable Slow Cooker Recipes
– Is it safe to cook raw chicken and vegetables together in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can safely place raw chicken breast and vegetables together in a slow cooker. In fact, this is what makes chicken breast and vegetable slow cooker recipes so convenient.Just make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before serving. The slow, consistent heat fully cooks both the chicken and vegetables evenly, all in one pot.
– What’s the best way to cook chicken and vegetables in a slow cooker?
To make delicious chicken breast and vegetable slow cooker recipes, start by layering your vegetables on the bottom of the crockpot. Add diced carrots, potatoes, celery, garlic, and onions. Season your chicken breast and place it on top. Then pour in your sauce mixture—usually made with chicken broth, fresh herbs, and spices.
Cover and cook:
- On LOW for 7 hours
- On HIGH for 3 hours
Optional: broil the chicken after cooking to crisp the skin or add texture. This simple layering technique is a signature method used in most chicken breast and vegetable slow cooker recipes for consistent, flavorful results.
– Do you have to brown chicken breast before putting it in a slow cooker?
Not at all. One of the best parts about chicken breast and vegetable slow cooker recipes is their ease. You don’t need to brown the chicken first. That said, some cooks like to sear the chicken breast for extra flavor before adding it to the pot. But it’s optional. With the right herbs and broth, your dish will still develop rich flavor during the slow cook.
– How long does chicken breast take to cook in a slow cooker?
In most chicken breast and vegetable slow cooker recipes, the cooking time for chicken breast is:
- 3 hours on high, or
- 6 to 7 hours on low
Use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temp reaches 165°F. The chicken should be tender, easy to shred or slice, and infused with the surrounding herbs and veggies. Avoid overcooking to prevent the breast from drying out—especially in leaner cuts.
– Can I freeze leftovers from chicken breast and vegetable slow cooker recipes?
Yes! One of the best things about chicken breast and vegetable slow cooker recipes is how well they freeze. After cooking, let your meal cool completely. Then divide it into airtight containers:
- Store in the fridge for up to 4 days
- Freeze for up to 3 months
To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stove or microwave. The vegetables and chicken remain tender, making this recipe a perfect make-ahead meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking Chicken and Veggies in a Crock Pot
– Overcooking Chicken Breast
A major mistake in many chicken breast and vegetable slow cooker recipes is overcooking the chicken breast. While slow cooking is designed for longer cook times, chicken breast is a lean cut that can become dry if left too long—especially on the high setting.
Solution:
Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Once your chicken breast hits 165°F, it’s ready. If your slow cooker has a “keep warm” setting, switch to that immediately to prevent overcooking.
– Using Too Much Liquid
It’s easy to assume more broth equals more flavor, but too much liquid can make your veggies soggy and your sauce watery. Chicken breast and vegetable slow cooker recipes naturally release moisture as they cook.
Solution:
Stick to the recommended ⅓ to ½ cup of broth unless you’re cooking a larger portion. Remember, less is more in slow cooking—especially with high-moisture veggies like onions, celery, and carrots.
– Cutting Vegetables Too Small
Tiny veggie pieces will cook much faster than the chicken breast, which leads to mushy textures. In many chicken breast and vegetable slow cooker recipes, uniform cutting is crucial to even cooking.
Solution:
Dice carrots, potatoes, and other root vegetables into medium-sized chunks. They’ll hold their shape better over long cook times.
– Skipping the Seasoning Steps
It may seem unnecessary to season everything when it’s all going into one pot—but skipping this step often leads to bland results. Chicken breast and vegetable slow cooker recipes need layered flavor to stand out.
Solution:
Season your chicken separately and sprinkle salt and pepper over the vegetables before adding the sauce. Don’t rely on the broth alone to carry all the flavor.
– Not Finishing the Dish
Slow cooker meals often lack texture. While they’re moist and flavorful, they sometimes need a little finish to become crave-worthy. That’s especially true in chicken breast and vegetable slow cooker recipes.
Solution:
Broil the chicken for 1–3 minutes after cooking to crisp up the skin (if using skin-on cuts). Garnish with fresh herbs, a squeeze of lemon juice, or a drizzle of olive oil to brighten the final dish.
Storage, Reheating, and Meal Prep Tips for Chicken and Vegetable Slow Cooker Recipes
– How to Store Leftovers the Right Way
One of the biggest perks of chicken breast and vegetable slow cooker recipes is how well they store. Whether you’re cooking for one or doubling the recipe for the week, leftovers stay fresh and flavorful.
Storage Tips:
- Allow the dish to cool for 20–30 minutes before storing
- Use airtight glass or BPA-free containers for freshness
- Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- For extended storage, freeze in single-serving portions for up to 3 months.
Be sure to include enough sauce in each container to keep the chicken moist during reheating.
– Best Ways to Reheat Without Drying Out
Reheating chicken breast can sometimes result in dryness if not done properly. Here’s how to warm up your chicken breast and vegetable slow cooker recipes while keeping everything tender and tasty:
Stovetop Method (Best):
- Toss the chicken and veggies into a small pot with a bit of broth or water. Cover it up and reheat slowly, giving it a stir now and then, until it’s nice and hot.
Microwave Method (Faster):
- Place the food in a microwave-safe container and cover it with a lid or moist paper towel.
- Heat in 60-second intervals at medium power to avoid overcooking the chicken
Pro Tip: Always stir halfway through reheating to ensure even warmth, especially if you’re using the microwave.
– Meal Prep Made Easy
Chicken breast and vegetable slow cooker recipes are a dream for weekly meal prep. Here’s how to streamline your week:
1. Pre-chop Veggies
Prep your potatoes, carrots, celery, onions, and garlic ahead of time by dicing them.. Store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 days in the fridge.
2. Pre-measure Seasonings
Combine all herbs and spices, including grated ginger and red pepper flakes, in a small container so you can simply dump and go.
3. Prep Sauce in Advance
Mix your chicken broth, fish sauce, and seasonings ahead of time. Store it in the fridge and pour it over your ingredients in the morning.
4. Assemble and Refrigerate Overnight
Layer everything in the slow cooker insert (without turning it on), cover, and store it in the fridge overnight. In the morning, simply set the insert into the base and switch it on.
This “grab-and-go” method is ideal for busy mornings and guarantees a hot, home-cooked meal waiting at dinner.
Looking for other meal-prep-friendly dishes?
Check out our hearty Slow Cooker Recipes Using Ground Turkey—they’re perfect for weekday planning and freezer meals.
Creative Serving Ideas for Chicken Breast and Vegetable Slow Cooker Recipes
– Serve It as a Hearty Bowl
The simplest way to enjoy chicken breast and vegetable slow cooker recipes is by serving them in a large, comforting bowl. Spoon in the juicy chicken breast, ladle over the tender vegetables, and top with a bit of slow-cooked broth. Add a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a restaurant-style touch.
Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast to soak up the rich, flavorful sauce.
– Plate Over Mashed Potatoes or Cauliflower
Take your chicken and veggie slow cooker dish to the next level by serving it over a bed of rich, creamy mashed potatoes. For a lighter option, mashed cauliflower pairs wonderfully too. This not only adds heartiness but also catches every drop of that rich, herb-infused sauce.
Try this: Add a pat of butter or a drizzle of olive oil on the mash before topping with the slow cooker contents.
– Fill a Baked Sweet Potato
Want a creative, gluten-free meal? Spoon shredded chicken and vegetables from your chicken breast and vegetable slow cooker recipes into a hot, fluffy baked sweet potato. It’s filling, colorful, and loaded with flavor.
Flavor Upgrade: Top with smoked paprika, a dash of cinnamon, or a dollop of Greek yogurt.
– Repurpose as Rustic Chicken Soup
If you have leftovers, your chicken breast and vegetable slow cooker recipe can easily become a delicious, rustic soup. Just shred the chicken, chop the remaining vegetables, and simmer everything in more broth.
Optional: Add cooked pasta, quinoa, or rice to stretch it even further.
– Make a Wrap or Burrito
For a fun lunch idea, use your leftover chicken and vegetables in a tortilla. Wrap them up with shredded cheese, avocado, and a spoonful of the sauce. It’s a new way to enjoy your chicken breast and vegetable slow cooker recipes on the go.
Great for: Meal prep, packed lunches, or quick weeknight bites.
– Present Like a Sunday Roast
Hosting dinner guests? You can serve your chicken breast and vegetable slow cooker recipe like a traditional roast dinner. Plate the chicken in the center, surround it with vegetables, and spoon the savory broth over the top. Garnish with rosemary, lemon zest, or cracked pepper.
Perfect for: Family dinners, potlucks, or comfort meals made to impress.
Looking for more family-friendly comfort meals? Don’t miss our creative Chicken Cordon Bleu Air Fryer Recipe—it’s another crowd-pleaser full of texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts on Chicken Breast and Vegetable Slow Cooker Recipes
There’s a good reason why chicken breast and vegetable slow cooker recipes remain a staple in so many kitchens. They’re easy to make, comforting to eat, and packed with nourishing ingredients. Whether you’re looking to simplify your weeknight dinners or create something wholesome without spending hours in the kitchen, these slow cooker meals deliver every time.
Throughout this guide, we’ve explored how to make your chicken breast and vegetable slow cooker recipes shine—from choosing the best ingredients to layering flavors, cooking times, and creative serving ideas. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. You can use different vegetables, spice levels, and cooking techniques, but the foundation remains the same: juicy chicken breast, tender veggies, and rich, slow-simmered flavor.
If you’re new to slow cooking, this dish is the perfect place to start. It’s forgiving, fuss-free, and always satisfying. If you’re already a fan of chicken breast and vegetable slow cooker recipes, we hope this article inspired new ways to serve, store, and customize your next batch.
You can enjoy this recipe as a bowl, wrap, or roast-style dinner. You can freeze it for later or turn it into soup. It’s a meal that adapts to your life—and tastes just as good on day three as it does right out of the slow cooker.
So go ahead—grab your slow cooker, prep your ingredients, and let the aroma of herbs, garlic, and savory broth fill your kitchen. Your next favorite dinner is only a few hours away.
For more recipes Follow me in facebook and Pinterest.
Don’t miss our collection of Summer Slow Cooker Recipes for more fresh ways to enjoy the ease and comfort of slow-cooked meals.
FAQ: Chicken Breast and Vegetable Slow Cooker Recipes
Can you put raw chicken and vegetables together in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can safely cook raw chicken and vegetables together in a slow cooker. That’s one of the biggest advantages of chicken breast and vegetable slow cooker recipes—everything cooks in one pot from raw, which keeps prep time minimal. Just make sure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F before serving.
How to cook chicken and veg in a slow cooker?
To cook chicken breast and vegetables in a slow cooker, start by layering diced vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and celery on the bottom. Then, season your chicken breast with salt and pepper and place it on top of the veggies. Pour in a flavorful sauce or broth, cover, and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3 hours. Many chicken breast and vegetable slow cooker recipes also suggest broiling the chicken at the end for added texture.
Do you have to brown chicken breast before putting it in a slow cooker?
No, you don’t have to brown chicken breast before slow cooking, especially when making chicken breast and vegetable slow cooker recipes. However, if you’re using skin-on cuts or want deeper flavor, a quick sear in a skillet can help enhance the overall taste. That said, slow cooking with aromatic herbs and broth builds flavor even without this extra step.
How long does chicken breast take to cook in a slow cooker?
In most chicken breast and vegetable slow cooker recipes, chicken breast takes about:
6–7 hours on LOW
3–4 hours on HIGH
Always check for doneness using a meat thermometer. The thickest part of the chicken should read 165°F to be safe for consumption. Cooking too long past this point may result in dry chicken, so it’s best to time it carefully.

Welcome to Yumi Meals!
I’m Yumi, and this space is a heartfelt extension of my lifelong love for cooking. What began in my grandmother’s kitchen has become a journey of sharing soulful, approachable recipes that celebrate connection, tradition, and creativity. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion, I hope Yumi Meals brings warmth and inspiration to your table.