Easy Crockpot Italian Chicken [Cooking With Kids]

The kids are always in my kitchen, but usually that is because they love to help me cook. This week we prepared an easy recipe that will help busy families eat healthy on the go. I love using my crockpot or slow cooker to cook with, especially when I know that I will be very busy that day. For this recipe, we prepared the meal the day before and then started the crockpot in the morning.

• 1-1/2 pounds of chicken breasts
• One can (32 oz.) crushed or diced tomatoes
• one small zucchini
• one summer squash
• one small onion
• 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese (optional)
• one tablespoon of fresh oregano (1 tsp. if using dried)
• salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste

1. Trim the fat from each of the chicken breasts and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Slice the zucchini and summer squash into thick (about 1/2 inch) rounds. Slice the onion and set aside the vegetables.
3. Pour half of the can of crushed tomatoes into the bottom of the slow cooker.
4. Add the chicken breasts on top of the tomatoes.
5. Next add the zucchini, squash and onions. Add the oregano.
6. Pour the remaining crushed tomatoes over the vegetables.
7. Cook on high in your slow cooker for about 4 hours.
8. Serve with a side of pasta to complete your meal. Add mozzarella to the top if desired.

These were the vegetables that we had on hand for our meal but there are many ways that you can change this simple dish. Add some garlic for a little extra kick or different vegetables like mushrooms or peppers to change it up a little. There are so many ways that you can make this a family friendly and healthy meal, just peak around in your fridge and see what you find!

This recipe is quick and simple so there is not too much for the kids to do with this recipe. However cooking is not always about the tasks of preparing the actual meal, it is also the conversation about healthy eating choices. Here are some things that you can talk with them about.

1. Talk about the colors of the foods that they are cooking with. Explain in kid friendly terms that each color helps your body to get different nutrients. That it is important to eat all the colors of the rainbow.
2. Talk about what your child enjoys about cooking. You might be surprised at his or her answer. You may think it is because your child can use a variety of kitchen equipment but really it is because he or she is spending time with you.
3. Talk about planting a garden. If your child is enjoying cooking with you, talk about the possibility of planting a garden in your own yard. Even if you have a small yard you can still plant some vegetables in containers.

As a parent of a 4 1/2 and 6 year olds, I have found that it is never too early to start these conversations.