Slow Cooker Chicken Scampi is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This recipe combines tender chicken breasts with vibrant bell peppers and a tangy lemon-garlic sauce, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of making Slow Cooker Chicken Scampi, provide helpful cooking notes, and offer variations to suit different tastes.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season and Dredge the Chicken:
- In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and black pepper. Dredge the chicken breasts in the flour mixture, coating both sides evenly.
- Sear the Chicken:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Slow Cooker
- Add Garlic and Peppers:
- Place the minced garlic, red bell pepper, and yellow bell pepper in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add Chicken:
- Place the seared chicken breasts on top of the garlic and peppers.
- Add Liquids and Seasoning:
- Pour the chicken broth and lemon juice over the chicken. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning over the top.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- Cook on Low:
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
Step 4: Serve
- Garnish and Serve:
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and place it on a serving platter. Spoon the bell peppers and sauce over the top. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
- Enjoy:
- Serve the Slow Cooker Chicken Scampi hot, with your favorite side dishes such as pasta, rice, or a fresh salad.
Cook Notes and Variations
Cook Notes:
- Chicken: If your chicken breasts are particularly large, consider cutting them in half to ensure even cooking.
- Searing: Searing the chicken before slow cooking adds flavor and helps the chicken retain moisture.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken Scampi:
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for a spicy kick.
- Vegetable Additions:
- Add other vegetables such as sliced mushrooms, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to the slow cooker for added flavor and nutrition.
- Herb Substitute:
- Use fresh basil or oregano instead of parsley for a different herb flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts. The cooking time may be slightly shorter, so check for doneness a bit earlier.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Chicken Scampi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
3. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked Chicken Scampi. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
4. What can I serve with Chicken Scampi?
This dish pairs well with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. Garlic bread also makes a great accompaniment.
5. Can I make this recipe in the Instant Pot?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for the Instant Pot. Use the sauté function to sear the chicken, then add the remaining ingredients and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
Slow Cooker Chicken Scampi is a flavorful and easy dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With its tender chicken breasts, vibrant bell peppers, and tangy lemon-garlic sauce, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re making it for a quick dinner or meal prep, this dish is simple to prepare and full of delicious flavors. Give this Slow Cooker Chicken Scampi recipe a try and enjoy a comforting and delightful meal. Happy cooking!
