As the aroma of Slow Cooker Chicken Ham with Turkey Bacon wafts through the kitchen, it creates an inviting atmosphere that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting yet effortless. The tender chicken and smoky turkey bacon meld beautifully, making it a family favorite that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare. Imagine coming home to a hearty meal that’s already cooked and ready to be enjoyed!
Why This Slow Cooker Chicken Ham with Turkey Bacon Works
There are countless reasons to love this dish. It’s a delicious blend of flavors and textures that come together in harmony. Here are just a few highlights:
- Melts in your mouth tender chicken
- Savory turkey bacon adds a delightful smokiness
- Easy, hands-off preparation
- Great for meal prepping
- Perfect for family dinners or gatherings
Ingredients and Key Notes
When preparing your Slow Cooker Chicken Ham with Turkey Bacon, each ingredient plays a vital role in building flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup turkey bacon, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish)
These ingredients come together to create a deliciously rich and savory dish that’s sure to impress.
How to Cook Slow Cooker Chicken Ham with Turkey Bacon
Your slow cooker is about to become your best friend with this recipe! Follow these easy steps:
- Start by placing the chicken breasts in the slow cooker, laying them out evenly.
- In a separate bowl, combine the chopped turkey bacon, onion, garlic, chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is thoroughly mixed together.
- Pour the turkey bacon mixture over the chicken, ensuring that each breast is well covered with the flavorful ingredients.
- Cover the slow cooker, setting it to low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and easily shredded when done.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken directly in the pot and mix it well with the savory sauce created during cooking. For an extra touch, consider adding fresh herbs on top before serving.
Prep ~ 15 minutes, Cook ~ 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high, Total ~ 6-7 hours, Servings ~ 4, Kcal ~ 350 per serving.
Plan Ahead
To save time, you can prepare elements of this dish in advance. Chop the onions and garlic ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. You can also pre-cook the turkey bacon until it’s slightly crispy, then refrigerate it until you’re ready to assemble. This prep work means less time in the kitchen on busy days and quick assembly for your cozy dish.
Storing and Reheating
Leftovers can easily be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the chicken mixture in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When reheating, do so gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to maintain moisture. The freshness cue is the wonderful aroma that should remain intact, tempting your taste buds once more!
Perfect Pairings
To complete your meal, consider serving Slow Cooker Chicken Ham with Turkey Bacon alongside these delightful options:
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Steamed green beans or broccoli
- A fresh garden salad
- Garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce
- Rice or quinoa for a wholesome touch
Variations and Swaps
Make this dish your own with a few simple variations:
- Swap the chicken breasts for ground chicken for a different texture.
- Add in various vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition and flavor.
- Experiment with spices by adding smoked paprika or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- Incorporate a splash of lemon juice for a brightness that enhances the savory components.
- For a richer sauce, include a dollop of cream or sour cream when serving.
Cook’s Notes and Secrets
For the best results, consider these expert tips:
- Ensure even cooking by not overcrowding the slow cooker.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for a minimum internal temperature of 165°F for chicken.
- Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes after cooking; it helps the flavors meld beautifully.
- Shred the chicken while it’s still warm for the best texture.
Your Questions Answered
-
Can I use fresh herbs?
Absolutely! Fresh herbs can enhance the flavor profile of the dish. Consider using thyme or parsley. -
What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?
If you don’t have it on hand, soy sauce or a homemade mixture with vinegar and sugar can work as a substitute. -
Is it okay to use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but cooking times may be slightly longer. Ensure they reach the safe temperature. -
Can I make this dish spicy?
Yes! Consider adding red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to spice things up. -
What’s a good side dish for this meal?
Creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh salad pair wonderfully with the flavors of the chicken.
Final Thoughts
Slow Cooker Chicken Ham with Turkey Bacon is a delightful dish that brings together simplicity and flavor. It’s comforting, nourishing, and ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a special gathering. With the ability to prepare ahead of time and the joy of coming home to a warm meal, it’s a recipe worth adding to your weeknight rotation. Give this dish a try, and you might find it becomes a beloved favorite that you’ll make again and again. If you’re in the mood for more easy slow cooker recipes, consider trying something like 5-ingredient slow cooker garlic balsamic chicken or baked ranch chicken with turkey bacon and cheddar. Enjoy the cozy goodness!
Print
Slow Cooker Chicken Ham with Turkey Bacon
- Total Time: 375 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A comforting and effortless dish featuring tender chicken cooked with smoky turkey bacon that is perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup turkey bacon, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Start by placing the chicken breasts in the slow cooker, laying them out evenly.
- Combine the chopped turkey bacon, onion, garlic, chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl. Stir until mixed.
- Pour the turkey bacon mixture over the chicken, ensuring coverage.
- Cover the slow cooker, setting it to low for 360-420 minutes or high for 180-240 minutes.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken directly in the pot and mix it with the sauce. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs before serving.
Notes
For meal prep, chop onions and garlic in advance. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 360 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: slow cooker, chicken, turkey bacon, comfort food, easy recipe
