Oh, the joy of coming home to the tantalizing aroma of a slow-cooked meal—it’s like a warm hug after a long day. This Easy Crock Pot Chicken La Criolla is my latest obsession; it’s a flavor-packed fiesta with every bite! Imagine juicy chicken infused with a blend of spices that feels like a dance on your tongue—truly a dish that turns any dinner into a celebration.
Steps
- Place the chicken thighs, diced onion, crushed garlic, chopped bell pepper, and plum tomatoes into the slow cooker. Season the mixture with salt, cumin, and oregano, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Pour in the tomato sauce, add the alcaparrado or olives with 1 tablespoon of their brine, 1/2 cup of water, bay leaf, and cilantro. Stir everything together to combine well.
- Set the slow cooker to HIGH for 4 hours or LOW for 6 to 8 hours. Once cooking is complete, taste and adjust the seasoning and salt to your preference.
- Before serving, sprinkle an additional 2 tablespoons of fresh chopped cilantro on top. Serve the dish over rice for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, trimmed of fat
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 clove garlic, crushed
- 1 bell pepper, chopped or sliced
- 4 plum tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons alcaparrado or pitted Spanish olives
- 8 oz can of tomato sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin
- Salt, to taste
- 1-2 bay leaves
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, plus an additional 2 tablespoons for serving
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1055 kcal | Carbohydrates: 49.5 g | Protein: 144 g | Fat: 31 g | Saturated Fat: 16.5 g | Cholesterol: 720 mg | Sodium: 2235 mg | Fiber: 9.5 g | Sugar: 10.5 g
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of chicken cut for this recipe?
- Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts if you prefer. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, and chicken breast may result in a slightly different texture.
- Do I need to pre-cook any ingredients before adding them to the slow cooker?
- For this recipe, pre-cooking is not necessary. The dish is designed to develop flavor through the combination of aromatics, herbs, and spices during the slow cooking process.
- How can I enhance the flavor of the dish after it’s cooked?
- Slow cooking can sometimes mute flavors, so tasting and adjusting seasonings at the end is recommended. Adding fresh herbs, such as cilantro, right before serving can also enhance the dish’s flavor.
- Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot instead of a slow cooker?
- Yes, the recipe includes directions for cooking in an Instant Pot. Simply follow the instructions provided for high-pressure cooking and natural release.
- What can I serve with Chicken a la Criolla?
- This dish pairs well with rice, which helps soak up the flavorful sauce. You can also serve it with other sides like beans or a fresh salad.
Tips
- For enhanced flavor, consider browning the chicken, onions, and garlic in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker, even though it’s not necessary for this recipe due to the abundance of spices and aromatics.
- Since slow cookers can sometimes dilute flavors over long cooking times, make sure to taste the dish at the end and adjust the salt and spices if needed. Adding fresh herbs just before serving can also enhance the overall taste.
- If you’re using a slow cooker, opt for one with programmable features and a meat probe for better cooking control, as they can prevent overcooking and ensure your dish turns out perfectly.
Equipment
- Slow Cooker – The recipe mentions a 6 Quart Hamilton Beach Set ‘n Forget Programmable Slow Cooker.
- Instant Pot – If you choose the Instant Pot method instead of the slow cooker.
