Make Ahead Slow Cooker Canned Chicken Recipes For Healthy Weekly Prep
Are you always on the lookout for healthy meal prep ideas that are easy to make and delicious? Look no further! Canned chicken is a fantastic ingredient that can save you time in the kitchen while providing nutritious meals. In this article, we will explore several make-ahead recipes using slow cookers and canned chicken that are perfect for weekly meal prep. You’ll find everything from hearty soups to flavorful casseroles, ensuring you have a variety of options that cater to your taste buds.
Canned chicken is not only convenient but also packed with protein, making it an ideal choice for busy individuals and families. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create wholesome meals that are ready to eat throughout the week. Let’s dive into some delicious canned chicken recipes that you can prepare ahead of time!
Recipe 1: Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Chili
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 2 cans (12.5 oz each) canned chicken, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup diced bell peppers
- 1 small onion, chopped
Instructions:
- In the slow cooker, combine the canned chicken, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, taco seasoning, chicken broth, bell peppers, and onion.
- Stir everything together until well mixed.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the vegetables are tender.
- Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings like avocado, cheese, or cilantro.
Recipe 2: Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 2 cans (12.5 oz each) canned chicken, drained
- 1 cup uncooked brown rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In the slow cooker, combine the canned chicken, brown rice, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, frozen mixed vegetables, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
- Fluff with a fork before serving.
Recipe 3: BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 2 cans (12.5 oz each) canned chicken, drained
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 4 hamburger buns
- 1 cup coleslaw (optional)
Instructions:
- Place the canned chicken in the slow cooker and pour the BBQ sauce over it.
- Stir to coat the chicken evenly.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours.
- Serve the BBQ chicken on hamburger buns, topped with coleslaw if desired.
Recipe 4: Chicken and Vegetable Soup
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 2 cans (12.5 oz each) canned chicken, drained
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- 1 cup diced potatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In the slow cooker, combine the canned chicken, chicken broth, mixed vegetables, diced potatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Recipe 5: Mediterranean Chicken Quinoa Bowl
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 2 cans (12.5 oz each) canned chicken, drained
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup diced cucumber
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In the slow cooker, combine the canned chicken, quinoa, vegetable broth, diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours, or until the quinoa is fluffy and cooked through.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use fresh chicken instead of canned chicken?
Yes, you can use fresh chicken, but it will require additional cooking time. Canned chicken is convenient as it is already cooked and can be added directly to recipes.
2. How long can I store these meals in the refrigerator?
Most of these meals can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to store them in airtight containers to maintain freshness.
3. Can I freeze meals made with canned chicken?
Absolutely! These recipes freeze well. Just make sure to let the meals cool completely before transferring them to freezer-safe containers.
4. What are some variations I can try with these recipes?
You can easily swap out vegetables based on your preference, use different spices, or add grains like rice or quinoa to enhance the meals. Feel free to get creative!
Conclusion
With these make-ahead slow cooker canned chicken recipes, you can simplify your meal prep while enjoying delicious and nutritious meals throughout the week. Each recipe is designed to be easy to prepare and packed with flavor, making healthy eating enjoyable. Try these recipes, and don’t forget to share your favorite variations!
