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Do you want to make a delicious and hearty meal with minimal effort? Look no further than the Cheesy Chicken Sausage Crockpot! This dish is perfect for busy days or cozy family dinners. Imagine coming home to the tempting aroma of savory sausage, tender chicken, and creamy goodness, all waiting for you in your trusty slow cooker. It’s a meal that warms your heart and fills your home with comfort.
What makes this recipe special is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a meal that feels like a hug on a plate. The combination of chicken and kielbasa adds a lovely depth of flavor, while the creamy sauces and cheddar cheese tie everything together beautifully. Plus, you can set it and forget it! How easy is that?
Whether it’s a hectic weekday dinner or a leisurely Sunday gathering, this Cheesy Chicken Sausage Crockpot is a winner. It appeals to everyone, young and old, making it an excellent choice for family meals. Why settle for takeout when you can serve up something homemade and delightful?
This comforting dish is not just about flavor, either. With versatile and wholesome ingredients, it’s a recipe that encourages creativity in the kitchen. You can customize it to fit your family’s preferences, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Who wouldn’t want a comforting meal that can adapt to their tastes?
So pull out your slow cooker and get ready to discover a new family favorite. The Cheesy Chicken Sausage Crockpot is more than just a recipe; it’s a way to bring loved ones together around the dinner table. With this dish, you’ll create memories as delicious as the food you serve.
Key Benefits of Cheesy Chicken Sausage Crockpot
Why will this recipe become a staple in your kitchen? Here are some of the benefits:
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of chicken, kielbasa, and creamy sauces delivers a taste experience that’s truly unforgettable.
- Simplicity: With minimal prep work, this dish is super easy to make, perfect for any cook, no matter the skill level.
- Versatility: Add your favorite veggies or swap in different proteins to keep things fresh and exciting.
- Family Appeal: It’s a meal that everyone can enjoy, making dinnertime stress-free and fun.
- One-Pot Wonder: Everything cooks together in one slow cooker, making cleanup a breeze.
What Makes It Stand Out
This Cheesy Chicken Sausage Crockpot recipe shines because of its originality. It marries traditional comfort food elements with modern cooking techniques. Using a slow cooker adds convenience while infusing flavors deeply into each ingredient.
You can also customize this dish for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a potluck, celebrating a family birthday, or just trying to make a weeknight meal special, this recipe fits the bill. It lends itself to festive alterations or simple adaptations based on what’s in your pantry.
Ingredients for Cheesy Chicken Sausage Crockpot
Here’s what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering dish:
- 680 grams red potatoes, diced into 1.25 cm cubes
- 450 grams chicken breast, cut into 2.5 cm cubes
- 400 grams kielbasa sausage, sliced into thin rounds
- 1 small white onion, finely diced
- 250 grams cheddar cheese, shredded (200 grams for layering, 50 grams for topping)
- 120 millilitres sour cream
- 120 millilitres heavy cream
- 298 grams canned cream of chicken and herbs soup
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Complete Ingredient List with Measurements
You can find these ingredients at any grocery store. The red potatoes give a lovely texture, while kielbasa brings that wonderful smoky flavor. Chicken breast provides lean protein, and the cheeses contribute the richness that ties everything together. The combination of sour cream and heavy cream yields a delightful creaminess that’s hard to resist.
Substitutes and Alternatives
If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, don’t worry! You can swap ingredients easily. For a dairy-free version, consider using coconut cream and dairy-free cheese alternatives.
If you need to eliminate gluten, ensure your cream of chicken soup is gluten-free. You can also replace kielbasa with turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option.
How to Make Cheesy Chicken Sausage Crockpot – Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1 – Prepare Ingredients
Start by dicing the red potatoes into 1.25 cm cubes. This size helps them cook evenly and quickly in the crockpot. Cut the chicken breast into 2.5 cm cubes and slice the kielbasa into thin rounds. Finally, dice the white onion finely. This preparation will ensure everything cooks perfectly.
Step 2 – Cook the Base
Lightly grease the insert of your slow cooker. Begin layering by placing the diced potatoes at the bottom, followed by the chicken cubes, sliced kielbasa, and diced onions. Layering in this order promotes even cooking.
Step 3 – Add Cheese
Sprinkle 200 grams of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the layered meat and veggies. This adds a creamy texture right from the start, making the dish rich and tasty.
Step 4 – Mix the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken and herbs soup, sour cream, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Ensure everything is mixed thoroughly to combine the flavors nicely.
Step 5 – Pour Sauce Over Ingredients
Gently pour the prepared sauce evenly over the ingredients in the slow cooker. Be sure to cover everything without stirring too much—this will help keep the layers intact.
Step 6 – Final Cheese Layer
Sprinkle the remaining 50 grams of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the sauce. This will create a delectable cheesy crust as it cooks.
Step 7 – Set the Cooker
Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for about 5 hours. The key is to cook until the potatoes are tender, and the chicken is fully cooked through.
Step 8 – Check for Doneness
As the cooking time approaches its end, check for doneness. The chicken should be cooked, and the potatoes should be fork-tender, indicating that they have absorbed all the fantastic flavors.
Step 9 – Serve Warm
Once everything is cooked, give it a gentle stir to mix the cheesy goodness throughout. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful aroma that fills your home.
Serving Suggestions for Cheesy Chicken Sausage Crockpot
Best Occasions to Serve This Dish
This Cheesy Chicken Sausage Crockpot is perfect for a variety of occasions. It’s excellent for family dinners on busy weekdays when you want something nourishing without fuss. On weekends, it fits right into your leisurely brunch plans or game-day gatherings, offering a hearty dish that everyone will love.
What to Serve With It
- Crusty Bread: Serve with a loaf of crusty bread for dipping.
- Salad: A fresh green salad can balance the richness of the dish.
- Pickles or Relish: A tangy side can enhance the overall flavor experience.
How to Store Cheesy Chicken Sausage Crockpot Properly
Best Storage Practices
To store leftovers, allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They can last in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to store it for longer, consider freezing it.
Reheating and Freezing Tips
If frozen, transfer to the refrigerator a day before you wish to use it to thaw. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through. If reheating from the fridge, ensure it’s heated to at least 74°C (165°F) for safe consumption.
Tips & Tricks for Cheesy Chicken Sausage Crockpot
Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Greasing the Pot: Failing to grease can lead to sticking and cleaning nightmares.
- Overcrowding: Ensure you don’t pack the ingredients too densely; they need room to cook evenly.
- Neglecting Seasoning: A lack of salt and pepper can result in blandness. Adjust to your taste.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Letting ingredients come to room temperature helps them cook evenly.
- Inadequate Cooking Time: Always adhere to cooking times for best results; undercooking can leave you with tough chicken.
Extra Tips for Better Results
- Add Veggies: Consider adding carrots or green beans for added nutrition.
- Mix Herbs: Feel free to mix in your favorite herbs—fresh parsley or thyme can elevate the flavor.
- Garnish: Top with sliced green onions or fresh herbs before serving for a pop of color.
Recipe Variations of Cheesy Chicken Sausage Crockpot
Creative Twists
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños for a spicy version that delights spice lovers.
- Tex-Mex Version: Replace chicken with taco-seasoned ground beef and add corn and black beans for a Tex-Mex spin.
- Vegetarian Delight: Use a variety of mushrooms and smoked tofu instead of meat for a vegetarian take.
Dietary Adjustments
For those requiring dietary modifications, the dish can be adapted easily. Use a vegan cream and cheese for a dairy-free version, and swap out the chicken and kielbasa for plant-based alternatives if gluten-free.
Conclusion about Cheesy Chicken Sausage Crockpot
The Cheesy Chicken Sausage Crockpot is not just another dinner option; it’s a comforting experience that brings family together. With its harmonious blend of flavors, easy preparation, and room for customization, it truly shines. In a world that often feels rushed, this recipe offers a moment of joy to pause and savor the good things in life.
By trying out this dish, you’ll find yourself creating a meal that’s not only delicious but also fosters connections around the table. Don’t hesitate to make this dish your go-to recipe. Come hungry, and leave satisfied!
FAQs about Cheesy Chicken Sausage Crockpot
Can I prepare it ahead of time? Yes, you can prep the ingredients in advance. Just store them in the fridge, and assemble when you’re ready to cook.
Can I freeze it? Absolutely! Just ensure it’s in an airtight container before freezing. It maintains flavor and texture well.
How long does it last? In the fridge, leftovers can last about 3 days. If frozen, they can last for several months.
What are the best substitutions? You can use turkey sausage instead of kielbasa and dairy-free products for a lighter or vegan option.
Is this recipe family-friendly? Yes! It’s a hit with both kids and adults and is simple enough for them to help assembling.
Can I add more vegetables? Yes! Feel free to add bell peppers, carrots, or any vegetable you like to enhance nutrition.
How can I make it spicier? Adding cayenne pepper or spicy sausage can elevate the heat level.
What type of slow cooker is best? Any standard or programmable slow cooker will work well for this recipe.
Is it possible to cook on high and reduce time? Yes, you can cook it on high for about 5 hours, but ensure all ingredients are fully cooked before serving.
Can I use different types of cheese? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a unique twist.
Cheesy Chicken Sausage Crockpot
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 680 grams red potatoes, diced into 1.25 cm cubes
- 450 grams chicken breast, cut into 2.5 cm cubes
- 400 grams kielbasa sausage, sliced into thin rounds
- 1 small white onion, finely diced
Cheese and Cream
- 250 grams cheddar cheese, shredded (200 grams for layering, 50 grams for topping)
- 120 millilitres sour cream
- 120 millilitres heavy cream
Sauces and Seasoning
- 298 grams canned cream of chicken and herbs soup
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- Dice the red potatoes into 1.25 cm cubes.
- Cut the chicken breast into 2.5 cm cubes and slice the kielbasa into thin rounds.
- Finely dice the white onion.
Layering Ingredients
- Lightly grease the insert of your slow cooker.
- Begin with the diced potatoes at the bottom, followed by chicken cubes, sliced kielbasa, and finally, the diced onions.
Add Cheese and Sauce
- Sprinkle 200 grams of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the layered ingredients.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken and herbs soup, sour cream, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
- Sprinkle the remaining 50 grams of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
Cooking
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for about 5 hours.
- Check for doneness near the end of cooking; the chicken should be cooked and the potatoes fork-tender.
Serve
- Once cooked, give everything a gentle stir to mix well and serve warm.