Introduction
Crockpot cooking has gained immense popularity due to its convenience and ability to infuse deep flavors into dishes. If you’re looking for healthy meal options, low calorie chicken breast recipes are a fantastic choice. These recipes are not only easy to prepare but also perfect for those who want to maintain a healthy lifestyle without sacrificing taste.
In this article, we will explore several mouth-watering crockpot low calorie chicken breast recipes that are ideal for slow cooking. Get ready to delight your taste buds while staying on track with your health goals!
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., carrots, bell peppers, broccoli)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken breasts for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer the seared chicken to the crockpot. Pour in the chicken broth and add the mixed vegetables on top.
- Drizzle fresh lemon juice over the mixture for added flavor.
- Cover the crockpot and set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, depending on your schedule.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken directly in the crockpot using two forks. Stir everything together to combine flavors.
- Serve warm, either on its own or over a bed of quinoa or brown rice for a wholesome meal.
More Low Calorie Crockpot Chicken Breast Recipes
1. Honey Garlic Chicken
This honey garlic chicken recipe combines sweet and savory flavors. The chicken cooks to perfection while soaking up the delicious sauce made from honey, soy sauce, and garlic.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6-7 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger.
- Place chicken breasts in the crockpot and pour the honey garlic mixture over them.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with a little water and stir it into the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Shred the chicken and serve with steamed vegetables or over rice.
2. Mediterranean Chicken
This Mediterranean chicken recipe is bursting with flavor thanks to olives, tomatoes, and herbs. It’s a great way to enjoy a low-calorie dish that feels indulgent.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 cup feta cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper and place it in the crockpot.
- Add cherry tomatoes, olives, basil, and thyme over the chicken.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Before serving, sprinkle feta cheese on top for a creamy finish.
- Serve with whole-grain pita or a side salad for a complete meal.
3. Spicy Salsa Chicken
This spicy salsa chicken recipe is perfect for those who love a little heat. The salsa infuses the chicken with flavor while keeping it moist and tender.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup salsa (mild or spicy)
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in the crockpot and season with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour salsa over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Shred the chicken and mix it with the salsa sauce before serving.
- Enjoy it in tacos, burritos, or on a bed of lettuce as a salad.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts in the crockpot?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but they will require a longer cooking time. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
3. Can I double the recipes?
Yes, you can double the recipes, but ensure your crockpot is large enough to accommodate the additional ingredients. Adjust cooking times as needed.
4. What can I serve with these chicken recipes?
These chicken dishes pair well with brown rice, quinoa, whole-grain pasta, or a fresh garden salad for a complete and healthy meal.
Conclusion
Crockpot low calorie chicken breast recipes are a fantastic way to enjoy nutritious meals with minimal effort. With a variety of flavors and styles, these recipes cater to everyone’s taste preferences. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or prepping meals for the week ahead, these recipes will keep you satisfied and healthy. Dive into the world of slow cooking, and explore these delicious recipes today!
