Are you tired of sacrificing flavor for a healthy diet? Do you struggle to find time to cook during your busy weeknights? Look no further! Slow cookers are a game-changer for anyone with diabetes, as they allow you to prepare nutritious meals with minimal effort. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouthwatering diabetic-friendly slow cooker recipes that are perfect for a quick and easy dinner.
From hearty stews and soups to flavorful curries and braises, our collection of diabetic slow cooker recipes has something for everyone. And the best part? Each dish is carefully crafted to meet the dietary needs of those living with diabetes, so you can enjoy your favorite foods without worrying about your blood sugar levels. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes are sure to become staples in your kitchen.
In this article, we’ll be highlighting some of our favorite slow cooker recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. From classic comfort food to international flavors, we’ve got you covered. So grab your slow cooker and get ready to indulge in a culinary adventure!
Slow Cooker Chicken and Vegetable Stew
A hearty and comforting slow cooker stew that’s perfect for a busy day, this recipe combines tender chicken with a medley of vegetables in a flavorful broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the chopped onion at the bottom of a slow cooker.
2. Add the minced garlic on top of the onion.
3. Arrange the sliced carrots, cubed potatoes, and sliced red bell pepper in layers, ending with the chicken breast or thighs on top.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and dried thyme. Pour the mixture over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cook on Low for 8 hours or High for 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Diabetic-Friendly Beef and Barley Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect comfort food option for those managing their blood sugar levels. With its rich beef flavor and fiber-rich barley, this recipe is not only delicious but also beneficial for diabetics.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lean ground beef
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the pearl barley, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour or until the barley is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Low-Carb Slow Cooker Turkey Chili
Elevate your slow cooker game with this delicious and healthy turkey chili recipe, packed with flavor and only 5g of carbs per serving!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the turkey in a skillet, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the skillet and cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker and add the tomato paste, diced tomatoes, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Lentil and Spinach Curry
A comforting and nutritious meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch. This slow cooker curry is easy to prepare, packed with protein-rich lentils and vitamins from spinach.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup frozen chopped spinach
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Add lentils, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, spinach, cumin, curry powder, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
2. Stir in olive oil.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Healthy Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin with Apples
This recipe combines the tender juiciness of pork tenderloin with the sweet, caramelized flavor of apples – a perfect comfort food for any time of year. With this easy slow cooker recipe, you’ll have a delicious and healthy meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) pork tenderloin
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2-3 apples, peeled and sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the pork tenderloin with salt, pepper, and thyme.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the pork tenderloin until browned on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Transfer the pork to the slow cooker. Add sliced onion and apples around the pork.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Remove the pork from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Quinoa and Black Bean Stew
A hearty, flavorful stew that’s perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the rich taste of black beans, all wrapped up in a comforting slow cooker meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the quinoa and add it to the slow cooker with water or broth.
2. Add the black beans, onion, garlic, red bell pepper, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper on top of the quinoa.
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)
Diabetic-Friendly Slow Cooker Ratatouille
This hearty slow cooker ratatouille recipe is a perfect solution for busy diabetics, as it’s low in carbs and rich in fiber and antioxidants. With its rich flavor profile, you’ll forget it’s a diabetic-friendly dish!
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium bell peppers (any color), chopped
– 2 medium zucchinis, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine onion, garlic, bell peppers, zucchinis, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and oregano.
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 parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Low-Sugar Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken
Transform classic BBQ chicken into a healthier, low-sugar delight with this easy slow cooker recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup low-sugar BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
2. In a slow cooker, combine the chicken, low-sugar BBQ sauce, chicken broth, and brown sugar.
3. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
4. Check the chicken for tenderness; if needed, cover and cook for an additional 30 minutes.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Slow Cooker Cauliflower and Chickpea Curry
This recipe combines the creamy richness of coconut milk with the comforting warmth of slow-cooked cauliflower and chickpeas, all wrapped up in a flavorful Indian-inspired curry.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add cauliflower, chickpeas, onions, garlic, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and paprika to the slow cooker.
2. Stir in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Healthy Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Salmon
This recipe brings together the bright flavors of lemon and garlic with the tender texture of slow-cooked salmon, all in a healthy and easy-to-make dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
2. In a slow cooker, combine lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil.
3. Add the salmon fillets to the slow cooker, making sure they are not overlapping.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Turkey and White Bean Chili
Warm up with this hearty and comforting slow cooker chili recipe that combines tender turkey, creamy white beans, and a blend of spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs
– 1 can (15 oz) white kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 6 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and red bell pepper to the slow cooker.
2. Add the turkey breast or thighs, white kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper on top of the vegetables.
3. Pour in the chicken broth, making sure that all the ingredients are covered.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Diabetic-Friendly Slow Cooker Beef Stew
A hearty, comforting stew that’s perfect for a chilly day, this slow cooker recipe is specifically designed to be friendly for diabetics. With lean beef and plenty of veggies, it’s a nutritious option that’s also easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lean beef stew meat
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, potatoes, green beans)
– 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine beef, onion, garlic, and mixed vegetables.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme. Pour mixture over the beef mixture in the slow cooker.
3. Season with salt and pepper, then cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8 hours (low) or 4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Cabbage Roll Soup
A hearty, comforting soup that combines the flavors of cabbage rolls with the ease of a slow cooker.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 head cabbage, shredded
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 cabbage leaves for serving
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat; drain excess fat.
2. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until softened.
3. In the slow cooker, combine cooked beef mixture, shredded cabbage, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, topped with a cabbage leaf and any desired additional toppings (such as sour cream or chopped fresh parsley).
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Low-Carb Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala
This creamy and aromatic slow cooker recipe is a twist on the classic Indian dish, perfect for a low-carb diet. This flavorful meal is easy to prepare and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 2 tsp garam masala powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp ground coriander
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp coconut oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 8 hours.
3. In a slow cooker, combine the chicken mixture, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and coconut oil. Stir to combine.
4. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped cilantro.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Slow Cooker Spaghetti Squash with Marinara
Transform the humble spaghetti squash into a hearty and flavorful dish with this easy slow cooker recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium spaghetti squashes (about 2 lbs total)
– 1 jar marinara sauce (28 oz)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low heat.
2. Cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and pulp.
3. Place the squash halves in the slow cooker, cut side up.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the squash and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Pour the marinara sauce over the squash.
6. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Diabetic-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore
This classic Italian-inspired dish gets a healthy twist with this slow cooker recipe, perfect for busy days when you need a quick and easy meal that’s also diabetic-friendly.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine chicken, onion, garlic, mushrooms, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and oregano.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Mushroom and Spinach Risotto
Transform Arborio rice into a creamy, flavorful risotto with the help of your slow cooker. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high; add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown.
3. In the slow cooker, combine cooked mixture, Arborio rice, warmed broth, and spinach. Stir well.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Healthy Slow Cooker Greek Chicken with Olives
Elevate your mealtime with this flavorful and nutritious slow cooker recipe that combines the Mediterranean diet’s signature flavors with lean protein and healthy fats.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup artichoke hearts, canned or marinated in olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, oregano, and paprika.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat; add chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes. Transfer to slow cooker.
3. Add olives, artichoke hearts, garlic, and feta cheese (if using) to the slow cooker.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Butternut Squash and Lentil Soup
Warm up with this comforting and nutritious soup, perfect for a cozy evening or a quick lunch. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of butternut squash with the earthy flavor of lentils, all slow-cooked to perfection in your crockpot.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the cubed butternut squash, lentils, vegetable broth, onion, garlic, and cumin to your slow cooker.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on Low for 8-9 hours or High for 4-5 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-9 hours (Low) or 4-5 hours (High)
Diabetic-Friendly Slow Cooker Teriyaki Tofu
This recipe is a delicious and healthy twist on traditional teriyaki dishes, using tofu as the protein source. With the slow cooker’s help, this dish is perfect for busy days when you need a nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
– 1/4 cup low-sugar teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (low-sodium)
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, whisk together teriyaki sauce, chicken broth, brown sugar, soy sauce, ginger, cinnamon, and black pepper.
2. Add the tofu cubes to the slow cooker mixture.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
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