Looking for a simple yet delicious recipe that will satisfy your taste buds? Try this Slow-Cooker Dijon Chicken with Barley and Mushrooms recipe! With its rich flavors and tender meat, this dish is perfect for any occasion.
What’s great about this recipe is how easy it is to make. All you need is a slow cooker and a handful of ingredients to get started. In this article, we’ll go through the steps to prepare and cook this flavorful dish, as well as provide some tips and variations to customize it to your liking.
Key Takeaways:
- The Slow-Cooker Dijon Chicken with Barley and Mushrooms recipe is simple yet delicious.
- All you need is a slow cooker and a handful of ingredients to make this flavorful dish.
- The benefits of slow cooking include tenderizing the chicken and enhancing flavor.
- This dish is a great source of protein and other key nutrients.
- You can customize the recipe with various spices, vegetables, or grains.
Ingredients for Slow-Cooker Dijon Chicken
To prepare this delectable slow-cooker dijon chicken recipe, you’ll need a few key ingredients:
Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
Skinless, boneless chicken breasts | 4 |
Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
Mushrooms, sliced | 8 oz |
Barley, uncooked | 1 cup |
Vegetable broth | 3 cups |
Dijon mustard | 1/4 cup |
Honey | 1/4 cup |
Salt | 1 tsp |
Ground black pepper | 1/2 tsp |
Fresh thyme, chopped | 1 tbsp |
Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
We recommend using high-quality ingredients for maximum flavor. For the best results, opt for organic chicken and fresh vegetables.
Preparing the Slow-Cooker Dijon Chicken
Preparing the slow-cooker dijon chicken with barley and mushrooms is effortless and straightforward. Follow these easy steps:
- Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the Dijon mustard, honey, garlic, soy sauce, and olive oil. Mix well.
- Pour the mixture into the bag with the chicken and shake until the chicken is evenly coated with the marinade.
- Place the chicken in the slow cooker and pour the leftover marinade on top.
- Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and barley to the slow cooker and mix well.
- Cook on high for an additional hour or until the barley is fully cooked and the mushrooms are tender.
- Remove from the slow cooker and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
For additional flavor, consider using boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. You can also add some chopped onions or bell peppers to the slow cooker for a more hearty meal.
Cooking the Slow-Cooker Dijon Chicken
Now that you have prepared the ingredients, it’s time to start cooking the slow-cooker dijon chicken. Follow these simple steps:
- Preheat the slow cooker to the desired temperature, usually low or high depending on your preference and the recipe instructions.
- Place the marinated chicken in the slow cooker and spread it evenly on the bottom.
- Cook the chicken for the recommended time, usually 4-6 hours on low heat or 2-3 hours on high heat, depending on the size of the chicken pieces and the slow cooker’s performance. The chicken should be fully cooked and tender.
- Stir the chicken occasionally to ensure that it is evenly cooked and that the flavors are well-distributed.
- Check the temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer to ensure that it has reached the safe temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve the slow-cooker dijon chicken hot with the barley and mushrooms and enjoy!
Remember to take any additional steps or precautions suggested by the recipe or the slow cooker’s instructions, such as adding liquids or adjusting the cooking time. And don’t forget to turn off the slow-cooker when you’re finished cooking and serving the meal.
Adding Barley and Mushrooms
Once the slow-cooker dijon chicken has been cooking for 4-5 hours, it’s time to add the barley and mushrooms to the mix. Start by rinsing 1 cup of pearl barley and adding it to the slow cooker. Next, slice 8 ounces of mushrooms and add them to the pot as well, stirring everything together so that the barley and mushrooms are evenly distributed.
To help enhance the flavors of the dish, add a teaspoon of dried thyme and a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Then, continue cooking for an additional 1-2 hours or until the barley is tender and the mushrooms have cooked down to your liking.
Once the cooking is complete, your slow-cooker dijon chicken with barley and mushrooms is ready to be enjoyed! Serve hot and garnish with fresh herbs or additional sliced mushrooms, if desired.
Benefits of Slow Cooking
Slow cooking is a technique that has become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason. By allowing your dish to cook at a low temperature over a long period of time, you can achieve a range of benefits that simply aren’t possible with other methods.
One of the biggest advantages of slow cooking is that it helps to tenderize your meat, providing a consistently moist and flavorful result that’s sure to please even the toughest critics.
On top of this, slow cooking is also fantastic for enhancing the natural flavors of your ingredients. By allowing them to simmer and meld together for hours, you can develop deep, complex flavors that are impossible to achieve in a hurry.
Beyond this, slow cooking is also incredibly convenient. Because you can set your dish to cook in the morning and leave it to simmer for the rest of the day, you’re freed up to focus on other tasks while still enjoying a delicious home-cooked meal.
Nutritional Value of Slow-Cooker Dijon Chicken
If you’re looking for a healthy and delicious meal, look no further than Slow-Cooker Dijon Chicken with Barley and Mushrooms. This flavorful dish is not only easy to make, but it also offers several nutritional benefits. Here’s a breakdown of the dish’s nutritional value:
Calories | Protein | Carbohydrates | Fat | Fiber |
|---|---|---|---|---|
380 | 34g | 30g | 11g | 8g |
Despite its rich flavor, Slow-Cooker Dijon Chicken is a relatively low-calorie meal that can fit into a balanced diet. It’s also high in protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue. The barley and mushrooms in the dish add a healthy dose of fiber, which can help regulate digestion and keep you feeling full for longer periods of time.
Additionally, the dish can be customized to meet specific dietary needs, such as low-carb or gluten-free diets. It’s a versatile recipe that can satisfy a variety of tastes and preferences while still providing ample nutritional value.
Overall, Slow-Cooker Dijon Chicken with Barley and Mushrooms is a nutritious and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Variations and Customizations
Looking to switch up the slow-cooker dijon chicken recipe? There are plenty of ways to customize this dish to your personal preferences and tastes. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Vegetables
- Carrots
- Broccoli
- Asparagus
- Green Beans
Grains
- Quinoa
- Brown Rice
- Couscous
- Farro
Herbs and Spices
- Rosemary
- Thyme
- Paprika
- Turmeric
Feel free to experiment with different combinations of vegetables, grains, and spices to create a unique twist on the slow-cooker dijon chicken recipe. You can also adjust the quantities of ingredients to suit your own taste preferences. Whatever customizations you choose, the result is sure to be a delicious and satisfying meal.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Slow-cooker dijon chicken with barley and mushrooms is a delicious and hearty meal that pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some serving suggestions:
Side Dish | Description |
|---|---|
Roasted Vegetables | Roast your favorite veggies, such as carrots, broccoli, and potatoes, for a healthy and colorful side dish. |
Garlic Mashed Potatoes | Mix boiled potatoes with garlic, butter, and milk for a creamy and flavorful side dish. |
Green Salad | Toss mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions for a fresh and light side dish. |
Bread | Serve with a warm and crusty bread, such as sourdough or baguette, to soak up the delicious sauce. |
As for pairing, slow-cooker dijon chicken pairs well with a variety of wines and beverages. Here are some suggestions:
- Chardonnay
- Pinot Noir
- Herbal Iced Tea
- Sparkling Water
Enjoy!
Storing and Reheating Slow-Cooker Dijon Chicken
Leftovers are a common occurrence after making a slow-cooker dijon chicken dish. Properly storing and reheating your leftovers will keep the chicken’s flavor and texture intact.
Storing Slow-Cooker Dijon Chicken
Firstly, wait until the chicken cools down before transferring it to a storage container. Divide the leftovers into smaller portions to prevent bacterial growth and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, place the chicken in an airtight container and freeze for up to three months.
Reheating Slow-Cooker Dijon Chicken
When reheating, thaw the frozen chicken before proceeding. While reheating, ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to kill off any bacteria properly. It’s best to reheat the chicken in the oven or air fryer to maintain its texture. If using a microwave, add a tablespoon of chicken broth or water to retain the moisture and prevent drying.
Conclusion
Slow-cooker dijon chicken with barley and mushrooms is a delicious and easy dish that can be enjoyed by everyone. With simple ingredients and a slow-cooker, anyone can create a savory and flavorful meal that is sure to impress. The benefits of slow cooking include tenderizing the chicken and enhancing the flavors, making this dish a must-try for any chicken lover.
Remember to experiment with variations and customizations to make this dish your own. Serve it with your favorite sides and garnishes and pair it with a refreshing beverage or a glass of wine.
When storing any leftover slow-cooker dijon chicken, make sure to follow proper storage and reheating practices to maintain its flavor and texture.
Overall, slow-cooker dijon chicken with barley and mushrooms is a versatile and delicious dish that is perfect for any occasion. Give it a try and savor the delicious flavors of this amazing meal.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or chicken breasts instead of whole chicken pieces.
Can I substitute the barley with another grain?
If you prefer a different grain, you can substitute barley with rice or quinoa in this recipe.
Can I use dried mushrooms instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use dried mushrooms. Just rehydrate them before adding them to the slow cooker.
How long does it take to cook the slow-cooker dijon chicken?
The chicken should be cooked on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours.
Can I prepare the marinade in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade a day ahead and refrigerate it until you’re ready to use it.
Can I add additional vegetables to the slow cooker?
Absolutely! Feel free to add carrots, onions, or bell peppers to the slow cooker for added flavor and nutrition.
Can I use a different type of mustard?
While Dijon mustard provides a distinctive flavor, you can substitute it with whole grain mustard or spicy mustard if desired.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat before serving.
What can I serve with slow-cooker dijon chicken?
Some delicious side dish options include roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
Can I make this recipe in an instant pot?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for an instant pot. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cooking times and settings.