Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen preparing a meal? Do you want to cook healthy, delicious meals without sacrificing flavor or texture? Look no further than your trusty slow cooker! Crock pots are perfect for busy home cooks who want to prepare a meal that’s not only tasty but also easy and convenient. In this article, we’ll explore 21 mouth-watering crock pot chicken recipes that will satisfy your cravings and keep you coming back for more.
From classic comfort foods like chicken fajitas and lasagna, to international-inspired dishes like chicken tikka masala and Mediterranean chicken with olives, there’s something for everyone in this collection of slow cooker chicken recipes. Plus, many of these recipes are low-carb, gluten-free, or vegetarian-friendly, making them perfect for special diets. So go ahead, grab your crock pot, and get ready to cook up a storm!
Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Herb Chicken
A flavorful and tender chicken dish that’s perfect for a busy day, this slow cooker recipe combines the brightness of lemon with the richness of garlic and herbs. Let the slow cooker do all the work while you enjoy a stress-free meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chicken breasts to the slow cooker and coat with the lemon mixture.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Check for tenderness and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crock Pot Healthy Chicken and Vegetable Stew
This recipe is a nutritious and flavorful stew that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal prep. With tender chicken, a variety of colorful vegetables, and wholesome seasonings, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as broccoli, cauliflower, and green beans)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the chicken, onion, garlic, carrots, potatoes, red bell pepper, diced tomatoes, and mixed vegetables to the Crock Pot.
2. Sprinkle thyme, salt, and pepper over the top.
3. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Skinny Mexican Shredded Chicken
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional shredded chicken, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunchbox addition. With fewer calories and less fat than traditional recipes, you can enjoy the bold flavors of Mexico without sacrificing nutrition.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
– 1/4 cup diced green chilies
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together chicken broth, green chilies, lime juice, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
3. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
4. Remove from marinade and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, shredding with two forks as it cooks.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro (if desired) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Low-Carb Crock Pot Chicken Caprese
This creamy, flavorful dish combines the simplicity of chicken with the brightness of fresh mozzarella and basil. Perfect for a low-carb meal or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 oz cream cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic.
2. Place the chicken in the crock pot.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together cream cheese and mozzarella cheese until well combined.
4. Add the basil mixture on top of the chicken in the crock pot.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Healthy Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup
A comforting and nutritious twist on traditional tortilla soup, this recipe is perfect for a cozy night in. With the ease of slow cooking, you can enjoy a delicious and healthy meal with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups frozen corn kernels
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 whole wheat tortilla strips, for serving
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine chicken, onion, garlic, corn, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in tortilla strips to warm through.
4. Serve hot, topped with your choice of avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, and cilantro.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Greek Yogurt Chicken Curry in the Crock Pot
This recipe combines the comfort of chicken curry with the tanginess of Greek yogurt, resulting in a rich and creamy dish perfect for a cozy evening. With minimal prep time and easy cooking, this crock pot recipe is a weeknight winner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp curry powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In the crock pot, combine chicken, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, curry powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in Greek yogurt and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
5. Serve hot over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Balsamic Glazed Slow Cooker Chicken
Elevate your slow cooker game with this sweet and tangy recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. The rich flavors of balsamic glaze, combined with the tender chicken, will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and thyme.
2. In a slow cooker, whisk together balsamic glaze and honey until smooth.
3. Add the chicken to the slow cooker and drizzle with olive oil.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve warm, garnished with fresh thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crock Pot Chicken Quinoa Chili
This comforting and nutritious chili is perfect for a chilly evening or a busy day when you need a warm, satisfying meal. This recipe combines the flavors of chicken, quinoa, and vegetables with a rich tomato broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Add chicken, quinoa, water, onion, garlic, bell pepper, chili powder, cumin, and paprika to the Crock Pot.
2. Stir in diced tomatoes and season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Healthy Slow Cooker Chicken Fajitas
Elevate your fajita game with this easy and nutritious slow cooker recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch. With tender chicken, crunchy veggies, and flavorful spices, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 small flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine chicken, onion, bell peppers, garlic, cumin, chili powder, and paprika.
2. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
3. Shred chicken with two forks; stir in cooked veggies.
4. Warm tortillas according to package instructions.
5. Assemble fajitas by placing shredded chicken and veggie mixture onto tortillas.
6. Add your favorite toppings, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Spicy Crock Pot Chicken Lentil Soup
A hearty and flavorful soup that combines the comfort of lentils with the spice of chicken, perfect for a chilly day. This slow-cooked recipe is easy to prepare and packed with nutritious ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add chicken, onion, garlic, lentils, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper to the crock pot.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Herbed Slow Cooker Chicken and Wild Rice
Elevate your slow cooker game with this flavorful recipe that combines juicy chicken, nutty wild rice, and fresh herbs. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this dish is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup wild rice blend
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large slow cooker, combine chicken, wild rice blend, chicken broth, olive oil, garlic, thyme, and rosemary.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Fluff with a fork before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Healthy Crock Pot Chicken Cacciatore
This hearty recipe is a twist on the classic Italian dish, made healthier and easier by cooking it in a crock pot. With tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and savory flavors, this meal is perfect for a busy day when you need something that’s both nourishing and convenient.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken, onion, bell peppers, and garlic in the crock pot.
2. Add the diced tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour in the chicken broth.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot over rice or with crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 3-8 hours
Garlic Parmesan Chicken in the Slow Cooker
Elevate your mealtime with this comforting slow-cooked dish that combines the richness of parmesan cheese, the pungency of garlic, and the tenderness of chicken. This recipe is perfect for a cozy evening or a busy day when you need a hands-off solution.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup garlic butter (softened)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine the softened garlic butter, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker and spoon some of the garlic butter mixture over each breast.
3. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the chicken.
4. Pour in the chicken broth to cover the chicken.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crock Pot Chicken and Spinach Lasagna (Low-Cal)
A delicious and healthy twist on traditional lasagna, this recipe combines the flavors of chicken, spinach, and tomato sauce with the convenience of a Crock Pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup low-sodium marinara sauce
– 8 oz whole wheat lasagna noodles
– 1 cup shredded reduced-fat mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In the Crock Pot, combine the chicken, spinach, marinara sauce, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Arrange 4 cooked lasagna noodles on top of the chicken mixture.
4. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese and half of the Parmesan cheese over the noodles.
5. Repeat the layers, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
6. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Healthy Slow Cooker Asian Chicken Lettuce Wraps
This recipe is a creative twist on traditional wraps, with the added benefits of being healthy and easy to make. By using lean chicken breast and a variety of vegetables, you can enjoy a nutritious meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped bell peppers
– 1/4 cup sliced carrots
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 8-10 lettuce leaves
– Sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and ginger.
2. Add the chicken breast to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, add the bell peppers and carrots to the slow cooker.
4. Assemble the wraps by placing a cooked chicken breast piece onto a lettuce leaf, then adding some mixed greens and your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crock Pot Chicken and Sweet Potato Hash
A hearty, one-pot meal that’s perfect for a busy day. This Crock Pot recipe combines tender chicken, sweet potatoes, and crispy hash browns for a deliciously comforting dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen hash browns
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp paprika
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken, sweet potatoes, onion, and garlic in the Crock Pot.
2. Sprinkle the salt, pepper, and paprika over the top.
3. Add the frozen hash browns on top of the mixture.
4. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Low-Fat Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Dip
Satisfy your snack cravings with this creamy, spicy, and ridiculously easy-to-make buffalo chicken dip! Perfect for game days, parties, or just a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) container low-fat cream cheese
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– 1 tsp buffalo wing sauce (Frank’s RedHot works great!)
– 1/2 cup chopped cooked chicken breast
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, Greek yogurt, and ranch dressing.
2. Stir in buffalo wing sauce and chopped chicken breast until well combined.
3. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1 hour.
4. Serve warm with crackers, chips, or veggies.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1 hour (high)
Mediterranean Crock Pot Chicken with Olives
This hearty and flavorful dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch. With the rich flavors of chicken, olives, and Mediterranean spices, you’ll be transported to the sun-kissed Mediterranean coast.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken in the crock pot.
2. In a bowl, mix together the olives, red bell pepper, garlic, olive oil, oregano, and lemon zest.
3. Pour the mixture over the chicken in the crock pot.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Healthy Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala
Savor the flavors of India with this healthier take on the classic dish. This slow cooker recipe is perfect for a busy day, requiring minimal prep time and yielding tender, juicy chicken in a rich, creamy tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup low-fat plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine chicken, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Stir in Greek yogurt during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crock Pot Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo (Light)
This recipe is a healthier twist on the classic comfort dish, made possible by using low-fat cream and Greek yogurt. It’s an easy and delicious meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup reduced-fat cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken, broccoli, cream of mushroom soup, Greek yogurt, and basil in the Crock Pot.
2. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Stir the cooked pasta into the Crock Pot contents. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Chicken and Kale Detox Soup
This Slow Cooker Chicken and Kale Detox Soup is a nutrient-dense, easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a gentle cleanse. With the combination of protein-rich chicken, fiber-packed kale, and inflammation-reducing spices, this soup will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients to a slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped kale if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Summary
Get ready to cook up some delicious and easy meals with these 21 healthy crock pot chicken recipes! From classic comfort foods like chicken quinoa chili and cacciatore, to international flavors like Greek yogurt curry and Mediterranean chicken with olives, there’s something for everyone. These recipes are all slow-cooked to perfection, requiring minimal effort but delivering maximum flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy meal prep option, these crock pot chicken recipes have got you covered.
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