We’ve all had those busy days when we crave a hearty, no-fuss meal, and that’s where our Chicken Slop Recipe comes in. It’s a comforting classic that brings together tender chicken and simple ingredients for a dish that’s as satisfying as it is straightforward. We love how it transforms everyday staples into something truly delicious.
Originating from American home kitchens, this recipe offers a twist on comfort food that’s perfect for family gatherings or solo dinners. With its easy prep and bold flavors, we’re confident it’ll become a go-to in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
In our Chicken Slop Recipe, we select simple yet flavorful ingredients that transform everyday staples into a hearty, comforting dish. These components, ordered by how we use them in the preparation process, ensure bold flavors and ease of assembly.
- Chicken: 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cubed into 1-inch pieces for even cooking and tender texture.
- Onion: 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped to build a savory base and release aromatic flavors early in the process.
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced to add a pungent, earthy depth that enhances the overall taste.
- Carrots: 2 medium carrots, sliced into ½-inch rounds for a sweet crunch and nutritional boost.
- Celery: 2 stalks, diced to provide a fresh, crisp element that balances the richness.
- Chicken broth: 4 cups low-sodium broth, used as the liquid foundation to create a simmered, flavorful sauce.
- Diced tomatoes: 1 can (14.5 ounces) with juices, drained slightly to add acidity and thickness without overwhelming the mix.
- Seasonings: 1 tablespoon paprika, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, and ½ teaspoon black pepper, combined for a warm, spicy kick that ties everything together.
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons, for sautéing the initial ingredients and preventing sticking in the pan.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon, adjusted to taste for enhancing the natural flavors of the dish.
This selection highlights the versatility of our Chicken Slop Recipe, making it a go-to for quick, nutritious meals.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our Chicken Slop Recipe seamlessly after gathering the ingredients, we need a few essential tools that ensure efficient chopping, sautéing, and simmering. This setup keeps the process straightforward and helps us achieve that comforting, bold-flavored dish with minimal effort.
Here’s a detailed list of the key equipment we recommend:
- Large pot or Dutch oven (at least 4-6 quarts): Ideal for combining and simmering ingredients to create the hearty base of our Chicken Slop Recipe, allowing even heat distribution for tender results.
- Chef’s knife: Essential for precisely chopping vegetables like onions, garlic, carrots, and celery, as well as cubing the chicken thighs quickly and safely.
- Cutting board: A sturdy, non-slip surface to support all our chopping tasks, keeping prep organized and preventing kitchen mishaps.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate for measuring out ingredients such as chicken broth and seasonings, ensuring our recipe’s flavors are perfectly balanced.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: Perfect for stirring and sautéing without scratching cookware, helping us monitor the dish’s texture as it cooks.
- Can opener: Necessary for opening canned diced tomatoes efficiently, making ingredient incorporation smooth and hassle-free.
By having these items ready, we can transition smoothly from prep to cooking, turning simple components into a satisfying meal.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, we guide you through preparing, cooking, and serving our hearty Chicken Slop Recipe with straightforward steps for a flavorful result.
Prep
Before we begin cooking, let’s prepare our ingredients to ensure everything is ready for seamless assembly. Start by cubing 1 pound of boneless skinless chicken thighs into 1-inch pieces for even cooking. Next, finely chop 1 medium yellow onion and mince 3 cloves of garlic to release their pungent aroma. Slice 2 medium carrots into thin rounds and dice 2 stalks of celery for a satisfying crunch.
We recommend organizing these prepped items on your cutting board to maintain an efficient workflow. Measure out 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, 1 can (14.5 ounces) of diced tomatoes, and seasonings including 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon thyme, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and ½ teaspoon salt. This preparation sets the stage for a dish bursting with bold, comforting flavors.
Cook
With our ingredients prepped, we move to the cooking phase where the magic happens in the pot. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat then add the cubed chicken thighs. Sauté the chicken for 5-7 minutes until it turns golden brown and releases a savory scent that fills the kitchen.
Stir in the chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and diced celery. Cook this mixture for another 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and their natural sweetness emerges. Pour in the 4 cups of chicken broth and 1 can of diced tomatoes along with the seasonings. Bring everything to a gentle boil then reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally to blend the flavors ensuring the chicken becomes tender and the broth thickens into a rich, aromatic base.
Assemble and Serve
Once cooking is complete, we assemble our Chicken Slop for the final touch. Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning if needed adding a pinch more salt or pepper for balance.
Ladle the hot Chicken Slop into bowls for serving. For added appeal, garnish with fresh herbs like chopped parsley if available. This step transforms the dish into a visually inviting meal that delivers comforting warmth and depth of flavor in every bite. Enjoy it immediately for the best taste and texture.
Make-Ahead and Storage
To keep our Chicken Slop Recipe fresh and flavorful, we offer practical tips for preparing it in advance and storing it safely. This ensures you can enjoy a hearty meal even on your busiest days without compromising taste or texture.
Make-Ahead Tips
We love making Chicken Slop ahead of time to simplify mealtime. Here’s how to do it efficiently:
- Prep Ingredients in Advance: Chop the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery up to 24 hours before cooking. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their crunch and flavor.
- Marinate the Chicken: Cube the boneless, skinless chicken thighs and toss them with paprika, thyme, black pepper, and a dash of olive oil. Refrigerate in a sealed bag or container for up to 12 hours. This step infuses the meat with bold, savory notes, making the dish even more aromatic when cooked.
- Fully Assemble and Cook: Prepare the entire recipe up to the simmering stage, then cool and refrigerate the mixture for up to 2 days. When ready, reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to restore the original consistency and vibrant flavors.
Storage Guidelines
Proper storage helps preserve the comforting, rich taste of our Chicken Slop while ensuring food safety. Always use clean, airtight containers to prevent contamination.
For quick reference on storage durations and methods, we’ve compiled the key details in the table below:
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 3-4 days | Transfer cooled Chicken Slop to an airtight container. We recommend stirring before reheating to evenly distribute the tender chicken and vegetables, then warm on the stove or in the microwave until it reaches 165°F for optimal safety and taste. |
| Freezing | Up to 3 months | Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers to lock in the hearty flavors. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, and avoid refreezing to maintain the dish’s moist texture and prevent bacterial growth. |
Important Note: Always check for signs of spoilage, such as off odors or changes in color, before consuming. By following these steps, we ensure your Chicken Slop Recipe remains a convenient, delicious staple in your kitchen routine.
Conclusion
We’ve crafted this Chicken Slop Recipe to bring effortless comfort into your routine. It’s a versatile staple that delivers bold flavors with minimal fuss, perfect for any day.
As we wrap up, let’s make this dish part of our everyday meals—it’s nutritious, satisfying, and sure to impress family and friends alike. Dive in and enjoy the simple joys it offers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chicken Slop?
Chicken Slop is a simple, comforting American home-cooked meal made from basic ingredients like chicken, vegetables, and seasonings. It’s perfect for busy days, offering bold flavors in an easy-to-prepare dish that’s great for families or solo dinners. This recipe transforms everyday items into a satisfying, nutritious staple.
What ingredients are needed for Chicken Slop?
You’ll need 1 pound of cubed boneless, skinless chicken thighs, a chopped medium yellow onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, diced celery, low-sodium chicken broth, canned diced tomatoes, and seasonings like paprika, thyme, black pepper, olive oil, and salt. These versatile ingredients make it a quick, healthy option for any meal.
What equipment is required to make Chicken Slop?
Essential tools include a large pot or Dutch oven for cooking, a chef’s knife and cutting board for prep, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a wooden spoon or spatula for stirring, and a can opener for tomatoes. These items ensure smooth preparation and even cooking for a hearty result.
How do I prepare Chicken Slop?
Start by prepping ingredients: cube chicken, chop onion and garlic, slice carrots and celery. Sauté chicken and veggies in olive oil, then add broth, tomatoes, and seasonings. Simmer until flavors blend, about 20-30 minutes. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs for extra appeal. It’s ready in under an hour for a comforting meal.
Can I make Chicken Slop ahead of time?
Yes, prep ingredients up to 24 hours in advance and marinate chicken for better flavor. Cook the full recipe and store it refrigerated for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. This makes it ideal for busy schedules, allowing you to reheat and enjoy a fresh-tasting meal anytime.
How should I store Chicken Slop?
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days, or freeze in portions for up to 3 months to preserve quality. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until hot throughout for safety and taste. Always check for signs of spoilage before eating to keep meals safe and delicious.