Simple Crockpot Meals

Name: Simple Crockpot Meals
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 10 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 pounds chicken thighs, boneless and skinless; 4 carrots, chopped; 3 potatoes, cubed; 1 onion, diced; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 teaspoons salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon thyme; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 2 cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can diced tomatoes; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 onion, diced; 2 teaspoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I love the ease and convenience of using my crockpot, especially when life gets busy. Preparing a meal in the morning and having it simmer throughout the day is my favorite way to stay stress-free. These simple crockpot meals allow me to explore new flavors and ingredients without the hassle of constant attention. Each recipe is crafted to ensure that you achieve maximum taste with minimal effort. So, gather your ingredients, set the crockpot, and let the magic happen while you go about your day!

Created by

Sabrina Holt

Last updated on 2026-01-20T01:34:18.966Z

One weekend, I decided to try an array of simple crockpot meals that I could set and forget. I was amazed by how much richer and more robust the flavors were compared to when I cooked them quickly on the stovetop. The key is low and slow cooking, allowing all the ingredients to meld beautifully over several hours.

As I experimented, I discovered that layering your ingredients matters. I always put dense vegetables like carrots and potatoes at the bottom so they cook evenly, while more delicate items like bell peppers go in closer to the top, preventing them from becoming mushy.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Convenient one-pot cooking with minimal cleanup
Allows for meal prepping for busy weeks
Endless flavor combinations and variations

      

The Art of Slow Cooking

Slow cooking is an incredibly forgiving method that allows flavors to meld beautifully over time. As the chicken thighs simmer in the chicken broth for the classic stew, they become wonderfully tender and juicy. This process transforms the chicken into a delicious focal point and infuses the broth with rich flavor. Similarly, the vegetables break down gently, releasing their natural sweetness and creating a hearty meal without the need for constant attention.

For the vegetarian chili, the slow cooking technique enhances the complexity of flavors. As the beans and chopped vegetables slowly bubble, the spices permeate throughout, giving each spoonful a harmonious blend. The texture of the beans becomes creamy as they absorb the surrounding flavors, making the dish feel both comforting and filling without the addition of meat.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

If you're looking to adapt the classic chicken stew, try using chicken breast or even turkey. Both options may cook faster, so keep an eye on them during the last hour of cooking to prevent dryness. For a twist, you could incorporate seasonal vegetables, such as squash in the fall or peas in the spring, which will add freshness and vibrancy to the dish.

For the vegetarian chili, feel free to experiment with the types of beans used. Black beans or pinto beans work equally well in creating a fulfilling protein source. You can also toss in corn or zucchini for added flavor and texture. If you want a spicier kick, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce during the cooking process. This adaptability allows each batch to cater perfectly to your preferences.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

Both the chicken stew and vegetarian chili store well, making them perfect for meal prep. After cooking, allow the dishes to cool before transferring them into airtight containers. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days or frozen for up to three months. When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a touch of broth as needed to maintain moisture.

Consider serving the meals with hearty accompaniments to elevate your dining experience. Crusty bread or cornbread pairs excellently with both dishes. For the stew, a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme just before serving can add an extra burst of flavor. With the chili, topping it with shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream can create a satisfying contrast to the spicy goodness.

Ingredients

For Classic Chicken Stew

2 pounds chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
4 carrots, chopped
3 potatoes, cubed
1 onion, diced
4 cups chicken broth
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon thyme
1 teaspoon garlic powder

For Vegetarian Chili

2 cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can diced tomatoes
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 onion, diced
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to modify the ingredients based on your preferences!

Instructions

Steps

Prepare Ingredients

Start by chopping and preparing all your ingredients. For the chicken stew, season the thighs with salt and pepper. For the vegetarian chili, drain and rinse the beans and chop the vegetables.

Layer in the Crockpot

Place the ingredients into the crockpot in layers. For the chicken stew, begin with the chicken at the bottom, followed by the vegetables, and then pour in the chicken broth. For the chili, combine all the beans and vegetables, then add the canned tomatoes.

Set Cooking Time

Cover the crockpot and set it on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, depending on your schedule. Let the crockpot do its magic without peeking!

Serve and Enjoy

Once done, taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Serve the warm stew or chili in bowls and enjoy with your favorite bread.

Cooking with a crockpot not only saves time, but it also enhances the flavor of your meals.

Pro Tips

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices and vegetables based on what you have on hand!

Cooking Time Optimization

When using a crockpot for your meals, understanding the ideal cooking times is essential for achieving the best results. For the chicken stew, I recommend setting it on low for 8 hours, which allows the chicken to become tender and flavorful. If you're in a hurry, the high setting will suffice, typically cooking the stew in 4 hours. However, be sure to check the chicken’s doneness early to avoid overcooking.

For the vegetarian chili, the same timing applies—low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. It's critical to maintain the cooking temperature to ensure the flavors develop fully. Resist the urge to open the lid while it's cooking, as this drops the temperature, extending cooking time. Instead, utilize the time to prepare a side dish or dessert!

Flavor Depth Techniques

To enhance the flavor profile of your classic chicken stew, consider browning the chicken thighs in a skillet with a bit of olive oil before adding them to the crockpot. This step caramelizes the meat and adds a depth of flavor that will elevate the entire dish. If time allows, sauté the onions and garlic until translucent as well; these additions will create a savory base that permeates throughout the stew as it cooks.

For the vegetarian chili, toasting the spices in the crockpot before adding other ingredients can significantly enhance their impact. Simply select the sauté option if your crockpot has it, or do this in a pan separately. Let the spices warm for a couple of minutes, allowing their essential oils to release, resulting in a more aromatic and flavorful chili.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I leave the crockpot unattended?

Yes, crockpots are designed for unattended cooking, making them perfect for busy days.

→ How do I prevent my food from burning?

Make sure you follow the recommended cooking times and avoid overfilling the crockpot.

→ Can I substitute ingredients?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute based on your dietary needs or preferences.

→ What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.