This Thanksgiving Crockpot Chicken Pot Roast is a cozy dish full of tender chicken, soft veggies, and a rich sauce that makes everyone feel at home. Just toss everything in and let the crockpot do the magic!
I love how easy it is to prepare this roast. No fuss, just set it and relax while the tempting aroma fills the house. Perfect for enjoying with loved ones during the holiday! 🍂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: You can use a whole chicken or boneless breasts depending on your preference. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is great for a quick alternative! It’s already cooked and gives a nice flavor.
Vegetables: Carrots, potatoes, and celery are classic choices. If you want to mix it up, try adding parsnips, turnips, or even green beans! These can vary flavors and add nutrition.
Broth: Chicken broth is essential for depth of flavor. If you need a lighter version, vegetable broth works well. For a richer taste, homemade broth is the best option!
Wine: The white wine adds complexity. If avoiding alcohol, just double up on the broth instead. White grape juice or apple cider is a nice substitute for a hint of sweetness.
How Do I Get the Chicken to Brown Perfectly?
Getting that beautiful golden-brown color is all about searing! Here’s how:
- Start with a hot skillet. Ensure your oil or butter is shimmering before adding the chicken.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook it in batches if needed for even browning.
- Let it sit without moving it for a few minutes before you flip it to get that nice crust.
- Once browned, it’s ready to go on top of the veggies in the crockpot for slow cooking.
The Best Thanksgiving Crockpot Chicken Pot Roast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Roast:
- 1 (3 to 4 lbs) whole chicken or 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Vegetables:
- 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional; can replace with more broth)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful crockpot chicken pot roast takes approximately 15 minutes for preparation and about 6-8 hours on low (or 3-4 hours on high) to cook. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it kind of dish, perfect for a busy Thanksgiving day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Searing the Chicken:
Start by heating olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season your chicken (whole or breasts) with salt and pepper. Sear the chicken on all sides until it’s nice and golden brown. This step adds amazing flavor! Once done, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Preparing the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, toss in the diced onion, minced garlic, chunks of carrots, potatoes, and chopped celery. Cook these for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them to be slightly softened but not fully cooked yet. This adds extra flavor to the dish!
3. Assembling in the Crockpot:
Now it’s time to layer! Place your cooked vegetables evenly at the bottom of the crockpot. This creates a cozy bed for the chicken.
4. Whisking the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the chicken broth, white wine (if using), tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and sage. This flavorful mixture will be the sauce that brings everything together.
5. Adding Chicken and Sauce:
Place the seared chicken right on top of your layer of vegetables in the crockpot. Pour the prepared broth mixture over the chicken and veggies evenly.
6. Cooking Time:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook. If you’re using the low setting, let it cook for 6-8 hours; for high, cook for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is tender and fully cooked, and veggies are soft.
7. Shredding and Mixing:
About 15 minutes before you’re ready to serve, you can shred the chicken right in the crockpot. Stir everything gently to mix the flavors together.
8. Adjusting Seasoning:
Before serving, taste your delicious creation and adjust the seasoning as needed with more salt and pepper.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for a lovely touch. Serve hot, and pair it with crusty bread or over fluffy mashed potatoes for a hearty meal!
This Thanksgiving chicken pot roast is sure to become a family favorite filled with rich flavors and cozy textures. Enjoy! 🍽️
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes! You can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw it in the fridge overnight or place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for a quicker thaw.
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the vegetables and sear the chicken the day before. Store everything separately in the fridge, then layer them in the crockpot and cook the following day. It’s a great time-saver!
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. This dish reheats well and is great for lunch!
Can I Make This Recipe in a Regular Oven?
Yes, you can! If you want to use a regular oven, preheat it to 325°F (165°C). Place the chicken and vegetables in a Dutch oven or a baking dish, and cover it. Cook for about 2-2.5 hours, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
