22 Summer Crockpot Favorites That Save You Time and Stress
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy easy and delicious meals. With busy days and warm weather, you want recipes that save you time. Crockpot meals are great because they cook while you do other things. Here are 22 summer crockpot favorites that will keep you relaxed and satisfied.
Why Make This Recipe
Using a crockpot in the summer saves you from heating up the kitchen. You can throw in the ingredients in the morning and have a tasty meal ready by dinnertime. Also, these recipes are simple and often use fresh summer produce. You can spend more time enjoying the outdoors instead of cooking.
How to Make Summer Crockpot Favorites
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs of chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup of salsa
- 1 can of black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can of corn, drained
- 1 tsp of chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: avocado, cilantro, cheese, sour cream
Directions:
- Place the chicken in the crockpot.
- Pour the salsa over the chicken.
- Add the black beans, corn, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Shred the chicken with two forks in the last hour of cooking. Stir to mix everything together.
How to Serve Summer Crockpot Favorites
You can serve this dish in tortillas for tacos, over rice, or with chips as a dip. Top with fresh avocado, chopped cilantro, cheese, or sour cream for extra flavor.
How to Store Summer Crockpot Favorites
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It will last for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to divide it into portions before freezing.
Tips to Make Summer Crockpot Favorites
- For extra flavor, add some lime juice before serving.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add jalapeños or hot sauce.
- Use boneless thighs for more moisture, or bone-in chicken for a richer flavor.
Variation
Try using different proteins like beef or turkey instead of chicken. You can also replace black beans with pinto beans or add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken in the crockpot?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to allow for longer cooking time.
2. Is it safe to leave the crockpot on all day?
Crockpots are designed for long cooking times and are safe to leave on while you’re out.
3. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just omit the chicken and add more beans or vegetables to make a delicious vegetarian dish.
These summer crockpot favorites will make your life easier and your meals tastier. Enjoy the flavors of summer without all the stress!
