Slow Cooker Chicken Creole

Slow Cooker Chicken Creole is a flavorful and aromatic dish inspired by the vibrant cuisine of New Orleans. This dish features tender chicken simmered in a rich, tomato-based sauce that’s packed with bell peppers, onions, garlic, and classic Creole seasonings like paprika, thyme, and cayenne pepper. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a comforting and hearty meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Serve this savory dish over a bed of fluffy white rice or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Slow Cooker Chicken Creole is a taste of the South that will bring warmth and spice to your dinner table.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Cooked white rice, for serving

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   • Season the chicken breasts or thighs with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side until lightly browned. Transfer the chicken to the slow cooker.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Transfer the sautéed vegetables to the slow cooker with the chicken.
3. Mix the Sauce:
   • In the slow cooker, add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, paprika, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, sugar, chicken broth, bay leaf, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir everything together to combine.
4. Cook the Chicken Creole:
   • Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through. If the sauce is too thin, you can remove the lid for the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow it to thicken.
5. Serve:
   • Remove the bay leaf and discard it. Transfer the chicken to a serving platter, spoon the sauce over the top, and garnish with chopped green onions and fresh parsley. Serve the Chicken Creole over a bed of cooked white rice.

Slow Cooker Chicken Creole is a deliciously spiced and hearty dish that captures the essence of Creole cuisine. The combination of tender chicken, rich tomato sauce, and aromatic spices makes this a perfect comfort food, ideal for sharing with family and friends.