Simple Crockpot Meals

Name: Simple Crockpot Meals
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breasts; 1 can diced tomatoes; 1 can black beans, drained; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making meals in my crockpot because they're a lifesaver on busy days. Just toss in the ingredients, set it, and let it do its magic while I focus on other tasks. These Simple Crockpot Meals are perfect for family dinners, offering comforting flavors without a lot of fuss. From stews to casseroles, there's something for everyone. What I enjoy most is coming home to a delicious aroma that fills the house, reminding me that dinner is ready and waiting.

Created by

Harriet Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-20T00:34:09.776Z

When I first discovered crockpot cooking, it transformed the way I approached weeknight meals. I remember preparing my first batch of chili, and it was astonishing to see how a few simple ingredients could meld together to create such rich flavor over a long, slow cook. One key tip I learned is to always season the meat before adding it to the pot; it really enhances the overall taste.

In my journey with crockpot meals, I've tried countless combinations, but some of my favorites include hearty beef stews and sweet chicken dishes. What I appreciate most is how the crockpot allows for experimentation without the usual kitchen stress. Adjusting spices and herbs can lead to delightful surprises and make it easy to cater to different palates!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Effortless preparation that fits into any schedule
Delicious meals that make the house smell heavenly
Endless variety to keep your family excited about dinner

      

The Magic of Slow Cooking

Crockpots are truly designed for busy lives, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully over a long cooking time. The low heat transforms the ingredients, ensuring that the chicken remains incredibly tender while absorbing all the herbal and spicy notes from the chili powder and garlic. It's this gradual cooking process that develops a depth of flavor you wouldn’t achieve with quick stovetop methods.

During the cooking process, the liquid from the canned tomatoes and chicken broth creates a savory base that tenderizes the chicken further. If you're concerned about the chicken becoming too dry, ensure it’s fully covered in liquid throughout the cooking time—this helps maintain moisture and flavor intensely.

Ingredient Insights

Understanding the role of each ingredient can elevate your dish. The black beans not only add protein and fiber but also contribute to the overall texture, introducing a bit of creaminess when mixed. If you want a different flavor profile, consider substituting black beans with chickpeas or pinto beans for variety.

Fresh garlic and onion play a crucial part in building a flavor base. If you're short on time, you can use garlic powder and onion powder, but fresh ingredients provide a vibrance that enhances the final dish. When the aroma fills your kitchen, you'll appreciate the freshness seasoning the entire meal.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delicious experience:

Basic Ingredients

1 lb chicken breasts
1 can diced tomatoes
1 can black beans, drained
1 cup chicken broth
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to customize these ingredients based on your preferences!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your meal:

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by chopping the onion and mincing the garlic. Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot.

Add the Rest

Pour in the diced tomatoes, black beans, chicken broth, chopped onion, minced garlic, chili powder, and season with salt and pepper.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Serve and Enjoy

Shred the chicken with two forks and mix everything together. Serve it over rice or in tortillas!

Enjoy your hassle-free and delicious meal!

Pro Tips

For more flavor, consider adding chopped bell peppers or corn to the mix. If you like a bit of heat, throw in some jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is extremely versatile when it comes to serving. For a complete meal, you can serve the shredded chicken over fluffy rice, which will soak up the flavorful broth beautifully. Alternatively, wrap it in soft tortillas for a delightful taco night with fresh toppings like avocado, cilantro, and lime juice for added brightness.

You can also use the chicken mixture as a filling for enchiladas or a topping for a hearty baked potato. The options are limited only by your imagination, and these serving ideas can keep your dinners refreshing throughout the week.

Make-Ahead Tips

Meal prep is a game-changer, especially for this crockpot meal. You can prepare the ingredients in advance, chopping the onions and mincing garlic, and even placing them in the crockpot the night before. Just keep it refrigerated and set it on low in the morning; by dinnertime, you’ll have a warm, comforting meal ready to go.

Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Alternatively, you can freeze the shredded chicken in portioned packs for up to 3 months, making it easy to grab a quick meal on busy days. Just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken in the crockpot?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just be aware that it might extend the cooking time.

→ How do I avoid my food getting burnt?

Ensure there is enough liquid in your crockpot. The recipes are designed to cook slowly, so burning is uncommon.

→ What else can I cook in a crockpot?

You can cook a variety of dishes including soups, stews, casseroles, and even desserts.

→ Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure your crockpot is large enough to accommodate the extra ingredients.