Tuesday, July 17, 2012

What a Crock!

I think the most useful appliance that I own is my faithful old crockpot.  Now, this is not my first crock since, I unfortunately learned the hard way that crockpots do not withstand extreme temperature gradients.  Evidently, you are not supposed to take a hot crock pot and put it in the refrigerator or it will crack!  Who knew?!  (Common sense was evading me that day).
I really do use my crock pot a lot.  There are just so many great recipes and EASY recipes that you can make with them that they are worth their weight in gold.  If you have ever been afraid to use a slow cooker before, throw away your fears because I am here to tell you that it is one of the easiest and most carefree ways to cook (especially for a mom)!

Here is a recipe that is one of my faves.....please note that I do not cook by recipe so amounts are approximate.  That is one other great thing about crocks is it is not an exact science. 

Athena Chicken


This is about the size that I cut everything.  Add your chicken and lemons to the top!

This is a tasty, light in calorie and fat, and light in flavor recipe...Greek inspired.  All you need is, frozen boneless skinless chicken breasts or fresh, fresh green beans (or frozen if you add towards the end), red potatoes, one lemon, onion, oregano, salt, two garlic cloves or garlic powder, and a pinch of pepper. 

Layer your onions (cut to your liking), potatoes and green beans in the bottom of the pot.  Sprinkle with a little of the spices.  I like to spice as I layer to help the flavors come together.  Then, just lay the chicken breasts over the top and add your spices over the top again.  Cut your lemon in halves and squeeze over your hand (to catch the seeds) and over the top of the chicken and then place the halves in the pot too.  I add a little chicken stock (about 3/4 cup) to the pot.  Place the lid over the top and cook of high for 4-5 hours.  When done, your chicken should be fork tender and falling apart.  Serve with crusty French bread or pita and enjoy!

It was so tasty and my family likes to eat so much that I forgot a pic of the finished product soooooo here is a picture of me demonstrating how you will smile when you taste Athena Chicken!


Tune in for more yummy and easy recipes!  I'm full of it...I mean them.....