Looking for a hearty, comforting meal that’s easy to make and tastes like it’s been simmering all day? This Herbed Chicken Tenderloin with Root Vegetables might just be your new favorite slow-cooker recipe. Packed with tender, flavorful chicken and nutrient-dense root veggies, this dish is perfect for cozy dinners or family gatherings, offering a balanced meal that’s easy to put together with just a handful of ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe isn’t just easy—it’s rich with the warming flavors of herbs, Dijon mustard, and hearty root vegetables like potatoes and carrots. It takes minimal effort, especially with the help of a slow cooker, allowing you to get on with your day while a delicious dinner is prepared in the background. The best part? The savory Dijon gravy brings everything together with a creamy, tangy finish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To get started, gather these ingredients:
- Chicken tenderloins: A lean cut that stays tender and flavorful.
- Root vegetables: Russet or baby potatoes and carrots add a nice heartiness.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and onion powder (or fresh onions) add depth.
- Dijon mustard: For a tangy layer of flavor that complements the chicken.
- Chicken stock: This forms the base for both cooking and making the gravy.
- Garlic (optional): Adds an extra layer of flavor.
- Olive oil: For searing the chicken and enhancing its flavor.
- Butter and flour: These create a roux for a thick and creamy gravy.
How to Make Herbed Chicken Tenderloin with Root Vegetables
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Season the chicken tenderloins with salt and pepper, then sear them in the pan until they’re browned on all sides. This step adds a lovely golden color and enhances the flavors that will infuse throughout the slow-cooking process.
Step 2: Add Vegetables to the Slow Cooker
Place the quartered potatoes and carrots in the slow cooker. Sprinkle with salt and pepper for seasoning. These vegetables will soak up all the flavors from the chicken and mustard, becoming tender and delicious over time.
Step 3: Layer in the Chicken and Seasonings
Place the seared chicken on top of the vegetables. For added flavor, sprinkle onion powder or sliced onions over the tenderloins. Minced garlic is optional but adds an aromatic touch if you prefer.
Step 4: Spread the Dijon Mustard
Spread Dijon mustard over the tenderloins, creating a thin layer that will impart a subtle tanginess to the chicken and veggies as it cooks. This step is where the recipe gains its unique depth of flavor.
Step 5: Add Chicken Stock and Cook
Pour chicken stock around the chicken, taking care not to disturb the mustard. This liquid will not only help cook everything but will also serve as the base for the gravy later. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and the vegetables are soft.
How to Make the Dijon Gravy
Once the chicken and vegetables are ready, remove them from the slow cooker and set them aside. This simple gravy takes only a few steps but brings the whole meal together.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour to create a roux. Cook for a minute until it’s golden and slightly nutty.
- Slowly add 2 cups of the strained cooking liquid from the slow cooker while whisking continuously. This will create a smooth, flavorful gravy with the Dijon’s tangy undertones.
- Cook until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.
Serve and Enjoy!
Plate the chicken tenderloins alongside the potatoes and carrots, then drizzle the Dijon gravy over the top. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or a slice of crusty bread to soak up the extra sauce.
Tips for the Best Results
- Sear the chicken: This step is worth it! Searing adds depth of flavor that enhances the final dish.
- Layer carefully: Place the mustard on top of the chicken so it infuses without overpowering the other flavors.
- Customize with herbs: Add fresh thyme or rosemary for extra aroma if you have them on hand.
Final Thoughts
This Herbed Chicken Tenderloin with Root Vegetables is the perfect answer to chilly evenings and busy days. The slow cooker does the work while you go about your day, delivering a meal that tastes as if you spent hours tending to it. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a warm, comforting dinner with minimal effort!
PrintHerbed Chicken Tenderloin with Root Vegetables
Description
Transform your evening meal with this succulent Herbed Chicken Tenderloin recipe. Full of flavor and complemented by hearty root vegetables, it’s all made effortlessly in your slow cooker. Perfect for a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients
– 2 lb chicken tenderloins
– 3 lbs quartered russet potatoes or baby potatoes
– 2 lbs quartered peeled carrots
– 1 tsp onion powder or 1 sliced onion
– 3 teaspoons minced garlic (optional)
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 4 cups chicken stock
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Dijon Gravy:
– 2 tbsp flour
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 cups slow cooker cooking liquid
Instructions
1. Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Season the chicken tenderloins with salt and pepper. Sear the tenderloins on all sides until browned.
2. Place the potatoes and carrots in the slow cooker. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Add the seared chicken tenderloins on top of the vegetables. Sprinkle onion powder over the tenderloins, or add sliced onions and minced garlic if using.
4. Spread the Dijon mustard over the top of the tenderloins.
5. Pour the chicken stock into the slow cooker around the chicken, taking care not to disturb the mustard.
6. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
For the Dijon Gravy:
1. Once the chicken and vegetables are done, remove them from the slow cooker and set them aside.
2. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to make a roux.
3. Slowly add 2 cups of the strained cooking liquid from the slow cooker to the roux while whisking continuously.
4. Cook the gravy until it thickens to your desired consistency.
5. Serve the chicken tenderloins with the vegetables and drizzle the Dijon gravy on top. Enjoy!