Easy Crock Pot Collard Greens with Chicken Ham Recipe

Introduction: Crock Pot Collard Greens and Chicken Ham is a delicious, comforting, and healthy dish. The rich, savory flavor of chicken ham combines perfectly with the hearty and slightly bitter taste of collard greens. Slowly cooked in a crock pot, the greens absorb all the rich seasonings, resulting in tender greens with a smoky and flavorful broth. This dish is a fantastic way to incorporate greens into your diet while also enjoying the comforting flavors of slow-cooked meats. Let’s dive into this easy-to-make Southern-inspired dish.

Overview of the Recipe:

This slow cooker dish is incredibly easy to prepare and packed with nutrients. Collard greens are nutrient-dense and pair wonderfully with chicken ham, offering a high-protein, low-fat meal. The key to the dish is its slow cooking method, which allows the flavors to meld together perfectly over time.

In this recipe, chopped collard greens are layered with savory chicken ham and infused with seasonings like smoked paprika and red pepper flakes. With a light broth of chicken stock and a touch of apple cider vinegar to balance the bitterness of the greens, this dish strikes the perfect balance between savory and tangy.

History and Origin:

Collard greens have deep roots in Southern American cooking, often associated with soul food traditions. They were brought to the Americas by African slaves and have become a staple ingredient in Southern cuisine. Traditionally, collard greens were cooked with pork products, such as ham hocks or bacon, to enhance the flavor. This recipe modernizes the dish by using chicken ham instead of pork products, making it more accessible to various dietary preferences without losing that comforting, smoky flavor.

Ingredients:

• 2 large pieces of chicken ham
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance bitterness)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for additional richness)
• 2 lbs collard greens, cleaned, stems removed, and leaves roughly chopped

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crock Pot:
   • Place the chicken ham pieces in the bottom of your slow cooker. Make sure the chicken ham is evenly distributed to help flavor the greens. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic around the ham to add depth to the overall flavor.
2. Add the Collard Greens:
   • Layer the chopped collard greens on top of the chicken ham pieces. Collard greens can take up a lot of space at first, but they wilt down as they cook. If your slow cooker isn’t large enough, add the greens in batches, allowing them to wilt slightly before adding more. This step ensures all the greens fit and cook evenly.
3. Add Liquid and Seasonings:
   • Pour the chicken broth over the collard greens. The broth provides a flavorful base and prevents the greens from drying out. Add the apple cider vinegar for a slight tang that cuts through the bitterness of the greens. Sprinkle in the crushed red pepper flakes (for a kick of heat, if desired), smoked paprika for a hint of smoky flavor, and sugar to balance any bitterness. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. If you prefer a richer dish, drizzle olive oil over the greens for extra richness and smoothness.
4. Slow Cook:
   • Cover the crock pot and set it to low for 8 hours, or high for 4-5 hours. The long, slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, creating tender greens and perfectly cooked chicken ham. Stir occasionally if you like, but it’s not necessary.
5. Serve:
   • Once the cooking time is complete, remove the chicken ham from the crock pot and shred it with a fork or chop it into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken ham to the greens and stir everything together. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve the collard greens and chicken ham hot.

Serving Suggestions:

This dish is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. It can be served alongside cornbread, mashed sweet potatoes, or over a bed of rice. You can also serve it as a main dish or a side to grilled chicken or turkey for a wholesome and nutritious meal. Additionally, it’s perfect for a holiday gathering or a simple weeknight dinner.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions:

• Cornbread: A classic Southern pairing with collard greens. The sweetness of cornbread balances out the slightly bitter greens.
• Mashed Potatoes or Sweet Potatoes: These starchy sides provide a smooth and comforting contrast to the tender greens.
• Grains: Serve the collard greens over brown rice, quinoa, or couscous for a heartier meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Add more vegetables like roasted carrots or squash to round out the meal.

Variations of the Recipe:

1. Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken ham with mushrooms or tempeh for a vegetarian take on this dish. For a smoky flavor, add extra smoked paprika or a touch of liquid smoke.
2. Kale Substitution: If you prefer kale over collard greens, feel free to substitute. The cooking time may need to be adjusted slightly as kale cooks faster than collard greens.
3. Spicy Greens: For those who love heat, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce before serving.
4. Meat Options: You can swap the chicken ham for turkey bacon or smoked turkey legs if you prefer a different protein source.

Alternative Options of the Recipe:

If you don’t have access to a crock pot, this dish can also be made on the stovetop. Simply follow the same steps, but simmer the greens and ham over low heat in a large pot for 1.5-2 hours, until the greens are tender and the chicken ham is fully cooked.

For those watching sodium intake, opt for low-sodium chicken broth and reduce the amount of salt in the recipe. You can also omit the sugar for a more naturally bitter flavor if that’s your preference.

Choosing the Right Tools for Cooking:

• Crock Pot/Slow Cooker: Essential for making this recipe, as it allows the greens to cook slowly and absorb all the flavors.
• Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping the collard greens, onion, and garlic.
• Tongs or Large Spoon: Useful for stirring and mixing the greens during cooking.
• Forks: For shredding the chicken ham after cooking.

Health Benefits:

• Collard Greens are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and a great source of fiber. They also contain calcium, which is essential for bone health.
• Chicken Ham provides lean protein, making this dish an excellent option for those looking for a high-protein, low-fat meal.
• The use of olive oil adds healthy fats, which can help in absorbing fat-soluble vitamins from the greens.

FAQs:

• Can I use frozen collard greens? Yes, frozen collard greens can be used, but you may need to adjust the cooking time as they may cook faster than fresh greens.
• Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat slowly on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• What can I use instead of chicken broth? You can substitute vegetable broth or even water in a pinch, though chicken broth adds more flavor.

Conclusion:

Crock Pot Collard Greens and Chicken Ham is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that brings Southern comfort food into your kitchen. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With its tender greens and savory chicken ham, this dish is satisfying, healthy, and great for family meals or gatherings. Try out the variations to make it your own, and enjoy the comforting, rich flavors of this Southern classic.

Print