One Pot Slow Cooker Asian Chicken and Vegetables for College Students
As a college student, balancing classes, studying, and social life can be overwhelming. The last thing you want to worry about is what to eat for dinner. That’s where this one pot slow cooker Asian chicken and vegetables recipe comes in! Not only is it incredibly simple to prepare, but it’s also packed with flavors that will satisfy your cravings without breaking the bank.
This dish is perfect for busy students who want to enjoy a nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The slow cooker does all the work for you, allowing you to focus on your studies or catch up with friends. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly option that uses ingredients you can easily find at any grocery store.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (broccoli, bell peppers, carrots)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions
- Start by preparing your slow cooker. If desired, lightly spray the inside with non-stick cooking spray to make cleanup easier.
- Place the chicken thighs at the bottom of the slow cooker. Season them with salt and pepper to taste.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil. Whisk until well blended.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.
- Add the mixed vegetables on top of the chicken and sauce. Stir gently to combine, ensuring the veggies are coated with the sauce.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to low heat. Cook for 4 hours, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of water in a small bowl. Add it to the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Once the cooking time is complete, carefully shred the chicken with two forks and mix it back into the sauce and vegetables.
- Serve the chicken and vegetable mixture over cooked rice or noodles, and enjoy!
Why This Recipe Works for College Students
This one pot slow cooker Asian chicken and vegetables recipe is designed with college students in mind. First and foremost, it requires minimal effort. With just a few minutes of prep time, you can set the slow cooker and forget about it until dinner time. This is a game-changer for students who often have hectic schedules and limited time to cook.
Additionally, this recipe is budget-friendly. The ingredients are not only affordable but also versatile. You can easily substitute the chicken thighs for chicken breasts or use whatever vegetables are on sale or in season. This flexibility means you can customize the dish to fit your taste and budget.
Meal Prep and Storage Tips
One of the best parts about this slow cooker recipe is that it’s perfect for meal prep. You can easily double the recipe to have leftovers for the week, making it an excellent choice for busy college days. After cooking, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to four days.
If you want to freeze the leftovers, portion them into freezer-safe containers and keep them for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave or on the stove until heated through.
Variations to Try
While the basic recipe is delicious on its own, there are plenty of ways to mix things up. Here are some variations you can try:
- Add more spices: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Use different proteins: Substitute chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option, or try using shrimp for a different flavor profile.
- Switch up the vegetables: Feel free to add or swap in your favorite veggies such as snap peas, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- Serve it differently: Instead of rice or noodles, try serving the chicken and vegetables over a bed of quinoa for a protein-packed meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I cook this on high instead of low?
Yes, you can cook it on high for about 2 to 2.5 hours instead of 4 hours on low. Just be sure to check that the chicken is fully cooked before serving.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply use tamari instead of soy sauce. Most brands offer a gluten-free option that tastes just as good!
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish is fantastic served over cooked rice or noodles. You can also pair it with a simple side salad or steamed dumplings for a complete meal.
Can I prepare this recipe the night before?
Absolutely! You can chop the vegetables and prepare the sauce the night before. Just store everything in the fridge and assemble in the slow cooker in the morning.
Conclusion
This one pot slow cooker Asian chicken and vegetables recipe is a must-try for college students. Not only does it save time and money, but it also delivers a delicious and nutritious meal that will keep you fueled for all your academic and social activities. With endless possibilities for customization, you’ll never get bored of this easy dish.
So gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and enjoy a hassle-free dinner that’s sure to impress your friends or roommates. Happy cooking!
