This Cozy Crock Pot Million Dollar dish is a warm and cheesy delight that’s perfect for chilly days. It’s made with layers of creamy goodness, savory meats, and rich flavors that make everyone smile.
You really can’t go wrong with a recipe like this! Just dump everything in the crock pot, let it cook, and enjoy the delicious aromas filling your home. It’s like a hug in a bowl! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless skinless chicken is a great choice here for convenience. If you’re looking for something different, turkey or even cooked sausage can work well too. Just adjust cooking time if you use pre-cooked meat.
Potatoes: I recommend Russet potatoes because they hold their shape and become creamy. If you prefer, try using Yukon Gold for a buttery flavor, or sweet potatoes for a different twist.
Carrots: Fresh carrots provide sweetness and texture. If you’re short on time, you can use frozen carrots. Just toss them in without thawing.
Soups: Cream of chicken and cream of mushroom add richness. You can swap out cream of celery or use a homemade version with milk and flour for a healthier option. For a dairy-free take, use coconut milk and a thickener.
Cheese: Cheddar cheese is favored here for its meltiness. Feel free to substitute mozzarella for a milder taste or use a dairy-free cheese if needed.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Texture in a Slow Cooker?
To get the right texture in your slow cooker dish, it’s important to layer ingredients properly and let them cook at a low temperature. Here’s how:
- Layer the hard vegetables like potatoes and carrots at the bottom to cook them evenly.
- Season your chicken well and place it on top. This way, the juices from the chicken will drip down and flavor the veggies.
- Make sure not to skip the cooking time! Cooking on low (6-7 hours) gives you tender chicken that shreds easily and prevents overcooking.
By following these steps, you’ll get a rich textured dish that’s not too mushy or underdone. Happy cooking!
Cozy Crock Pot Million Dollar
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1.5 to 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into chunks
- 3 large carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
Sauces and Seasonings:
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese and Broth:
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional, for extra moisture)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped
Time Needed:
This cozy dish will take about 15-20 minutes to prepare, followed by a cooking time of 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the crock pot. So, it’s perfect for busy days when you want a delicious dinner waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Crock Pot:
Start by spraying the inside of your crock pot with non-stick cooking spray. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier later.
2. Layer the Vegetables:
Next, add the chopped potatoes, carrots, and diced onion into the crock pot. Make sure you layer them evenly on the bottom—it’s important they cook properly.
3. Season the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts or thighs and sprinkle them with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. This will add tons of flavor to your dish!
4. Add the Chicken to the Pot:
Place the seasoned chicken right on top of the layer of vegetables. This way, the juices from the chicken will drip down and flavor the veggies.
5. Mix the Soups and Cheese:
In a medium bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until well blended. If you want a creamier texture, you can stir in the chicken broth as well.
6. Pour the Mixture Over Everything:
Now, pour the soup and cheese mixture evenly over the chicken and vegetables in the crock pot. Make sure everything is covered well.
7. Cooking Time:
Cover the crock pot and let it cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is fully cooked and the potatoes and carrots are nice and tender.
8. Shred the Chicken:
Once the cooking time is up, use two forks to shred the chicken right in the crock pot. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything together.
9. Add More Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top and cover the crock pot for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the cheese to melt beautifully.
10. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, add some chopped fresh parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and flavor. Now, you’re ready to enjoy this warm, creamy, and cheesy “Million Dollar” dish!
Enjoy your cozy meal with friends or family, and revel in the comforting flavors of this filling dish!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it first! Thaw chicken overnight in the fridge or place it in a sealed bag submerged in cold water. This will ensure even cooking and better flavor absorption.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just layer the ingredients as instructed, but keep the cheese separate until you’re ready to cook.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave in short bursts or warm on the stove, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore moisture if needed.
What Can I Serve With This Dish?
This recipe pairs wonderfully with a side salad, crusty bread, or even over rice or noodles for a hearty meal. You can also garnish with additional herbs for an extra flavor boost!
