Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Asian Meals For College Students
College life can be hectic, and often the last thing on a student’s mind is preparing healthy and delicious meals. However, with a slow cooker, you can whip up a variety of simple Asian-inspired chicken dishes that are not only easy to prepare but also budget-friendly and satisfying. In this article, we will explore several recipes that fit the bill, making cooking a breeze for busy college students.
The Benefits of Slow Cooking for College Students
Using a slow cooker is a game-changer for college students. It allows you to throw in a few ingredients, set it, and forget it. You can come home from class to a hot meal ready and waiting. Plus, slow-cooked meals often taste better because the flavors have more time to meld together.
Another advantage is that slow cooker meals are often one-pot dishes, making cleanup simple. This is particularly beneficial for students living in dorms or shared apartments where kitchen space and time can be limited.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Serving: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 2 green onions, chopped for garnish
- Sesame seeds for garnish
- Cooked rice for serving
Instructions
- In a slow cooker, combine the soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to mix.
- Add the chicken thighs to the slow cooker, making sure they are well-coated with the sauce.
- Layer the broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots on top of the chicken.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks directly in the slow cooker and stir to combine with the vegetables and sauce.
- Serve hot over cooked rice, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
More Simple Slow Cooker Asian Chicken Recipes
If you enjoyed the first recipe, you might be interested in trying these additional slow cooker Asian chicken meals that are perfect for college students.
1. Teriyaki Chicken
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
Serving: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup snap peas
- 1 cup diced pineapple (optional)
- Cooked rice for serving
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Pour teriyaki sauce, honey, chicken broth, garlic powder, and onion powder over the chicken.
- Add the snap peas and pineapple if using. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken and mix with the sauce. Serve over rice and garnish with green onions.
2. Sweet and Sour Chicken
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Serving: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1 cup sweet and sour sauce
- 1/2 cup bell peppers, chopped
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1 cup pineapple chunks
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- Cooked rice for serving
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- In the slow cooker, combine the sweet and sour sauce, soy sauce, chicken thighs, bell peppers, onion, and pineapple.
- Stir to ensure the chicken is well-coated.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
- Serve over cooked rice and garnish with chopped cilantro.
3. Asian Spiced Chicken and Rice
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
Serving: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon five-spice powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, etc.)
- Chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions
- Place chicken thighs in the slow cooker. Add chicken broth, soy sauce, five-spice powder, and black pepper.
- Stir to combine and cover. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
- In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add jasmine rice and mixed vegetables to the slow cooker. Stir well.
- Once done, fluff the rice and serve, garnished with chopped scallions.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen chicken in these recipes?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be aware that it may increase the cooking time. Make sure to check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
3. Can I make these recipes vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh, and adjust the cooking times accordingly. Ensure to use vegetarian-friendly sauces.
4. What sides go well with these meals?
These meals pair well with steamed rice, fried rice, or even a simple side salad. You can also serve them with spring rolls for an added crunch.
In conclusion, slow cooker Asian chicken meals are not only simple to prepare but are also delicious and filling, making them perfect for college students. With these recipes, you can enjoy a taste of Asia right in your dorm room. Happy cooking!
