Why the Crockpot Margarita Chicken Is Great Crockpot Recipe
When you’re looking for an easy and delicious meal, the Crockpot Margarita Chicken stands out as a fantastic choice. I love how simple it’s to prepare; just toss everything in the crockpot and let it do the work. The slow cooking process infuses amazing flavors, making each bite a delight. Plus, it’s perfect for busy days when I don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Cleanup is a breeze, too! I often serve it over mashed potatoes or noodles, turning a basic meal into something special. Trust me, this recipe will quickly become a go-to in your rotation.
Ingredients of Crockpot Margarita Chicken
When it comes to making the Crockpot Margarita Chicken, having the right ingredients is key. Thankfully, the list is short and sweet, making it easy to gather everything you’ll need. You won’t find any complicated or hard-to-pronounce items here.
Just a handful of ingredients that work together to create a flavorful dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Ready to jump in? Let’s check out what you’ll need to whip up this delicious meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs frozen meatballs, fully cooked and thawed
- 1 (10 3/4 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom & garlic soup
- 1 cup water
- 1 (1 ounce) package dry turkey gravy mix
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
Now, while these ingredients are pretty straightforward, there are a couple of things to keep in mind. First off, if you’re not a fan of mushrooms, you might want to try a different cream soup, like cream of chicken.
It’ll still be yummy, just with a different flavor profile. Also, don’t be shy about experimenting with the spices. Dried thyme is great, but a sprinkle of rosemary or some garlic powder could add a nice twist.
And let’s not forget that you can easily double the recipe for larger gatherings or meal prep. Who doesn’t love leftovers? Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if you decide to load up the crockpot!
How to Make Crockpot Margarita Chicken
Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of making this delicious Crockpot Margarita Chicken. First things first, gather your ingredients. You’ll want to start with 2 lbs of frozen meatballs. Yes, you heard me right—frozen meatballs. You don’t need to be a gourmet chef to whip this up, and using frozen ones saves you time. Just make sure they’re fully cooked and thawed before you toss them into your trusty 3-1/2 to 4-quart crockpot.
Now, once those meatballs are nestled in the crockpot, grab your 10 3/4-ounce can of condensed cream of mushroom & garlic soup. This stuff is magic. Just pour it right over the meatballs, making sure they’re getting a good coating.
Next, add 1 cup of water to create that perfect sauce you didn’t even know you needed. Then, sprinkle in one package of dry turkey gravy mix. Trust me, this is where the flavor starts to build.
Now, for a little herbal touch, toss in 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme and don’t forget those 2 bay leaves. They’re like the secret agents of flavor—quietly working their magic while you go about your day.
Once everything’s in the pot, cover it up and set your crockpot to cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. It’s like setting a timer for a cozy evening. You can go about your business, binge-watch your favorite show, or maybe even take a nap (who wouldn’t want to do that?).
When you’re finally ready to eat, just remember to fish out those bay leaves before serving. They’re not exactly a tasty addition. Serve this comforting dish over hot mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles, and voilà! You’ve got a meal that’s sure to make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside.
It’s that easy, and honestly, who doesn’t love a good meal with minimal effort?
Crockpot Margarita Chicken Substitutions & Variations For Low Carb Diets
If you’re looking to tweak the Crockpot Margarita Chicken recipe for a low-carb diet, there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can try.
Swap out the cream of mushroom soup for a low-carb option, like a homemade cream sauce or a keto-friendly soup. Instead of meatballs, consider using chicken breasts or thighs for a leaner protein.
You could also add vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrients. Finally, replace the turkey gravy mix with a homemade spice blend to keep it flavorful without the carbs.
These changes make it easy to enjoy a delicious low-carb meal!
What to Serve with Crockpot Margarita Chicken
After making those delicious low-carb adjustments to the Crockpot Margarita Chicken, you might be wondering what to serve alongside it to complete your meal.
I love pairing it with fluffy mashed cauliflower for a creamy texture that absorbs the gravy perfectly. If you prefer something heartier, buttered egg noodles work wonderfully too.
A fresh side salad with a zesty vinaigrette can brighten your plate and balance the richness of the chicken.
Don’t forget some roasted vegetables; they add color and nutrients.
With these sides, you’ll have a well-rounded, satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy!
Additional Tips To Decrease Calories
To help decrease calories in your Crockpot Margarita Chicken, I recommend swapping out the cream of mushroom soup for a lighter option, like a low-fat cream soup or a homemade version using Greek yogurt.
You can also use leaner meatballs or even make your own using ground turkey. For added flavor without extra calories, try using fresh herbs instead of gravies or heavy sauces.
Serving it over cauliflower rice or steamed veggies instead of mashed potatoes or egg noodles can greatly cut down on calories while still being satisfying.
Small changes can really make a difference in your meal’s calorie count!