Crockpot Chicken Recipes Low Calorie

So you’re craving something tasty but too lazy to spend forever in the kitchen, huh? Same. And you also want it to be *not* a calorie bomb? Friend, you’ve come to the right place. We’re about to make your crockpot dreams come true with a low-cal chicken recipe that basically cooks itself while you binge-watch your favorite show. No judgment, only deliciousness.

Why This Recipe is Awesome

Okay, first things first: this isn’t just *a* recipe; it’s a lifestyle choice. Why is it awesome?

• It’s idiot-proof. Seriously, even I, who once burned water (don’t ask), can nail this.
• Low calorie, high flavor. Because who says healthy has to taste like sadness? Not us!
• Minimal effort. Dump stuff in, press a button, walk away. Your crockpot is basically a tiny, culinary robot butler.
• Meal prep godsend. Make a big batch, shred it, and have deliciousness for days. Tacos, salads, sandwiches – endless possibilities. It’s versatility at its finest.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1.5 – 2 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs: Breasts are leaner, but thighs offer more flavor if you’re okay with a *tiny* calorie bump. Your call, boss.
• 1 (15 oz) Can Diced Tomatoes (undrained): Fire-roasted if you’re feeling fancy.
• 1 Onion: Chopped. Don’t cry about it.
• 3-4 Cloves Garlic: Minced. Or, ya know, just use the jarred stuff. We’re friends here, no judgment.
• 1 tsp Dried Oregano: Your trusty herb friend.
• 1 tsp Dried Basil: Another herb pal.
• ½ tsp Smoked Paprika: For that subtle *oomph*.
• ¼ tsp Red Pepper Flakes (optional): If you like a little zing in your life.
• ½ cup Chicken Broth (low sodium): Just a splash to keep things cozy.
• Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: To taste, duh.
• Fresh Parsley or Cilantro (for garnish): Because even lazy meals deserve a fancy hat.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep Time (The Hardest Part, LOL): Chop your onion and mince your garlic. If you’re using jarred, skip the mincing. Pat your chicken dry with a paper towel. This helps seasonings stick, FYI.
2. Dump It In: Place the chicken breasts/thighs at the bottom of your trusty crockpot. Seriously, just toss ’em in.
3. Layer the Flavor: Sprinkle the chopped onion and minced garlic over the chicken. Then, generously season with oregano, basil, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
4. Add the Wet Stuff: Pour in the can of diced tomatoes (undrained!) and the low-sodium chicken broth. Don’t stir it all up just yet. Let the flavors meld naturally.
5. Set It and Forget It: Cover your crockpot. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be super tender and easily shredded.
6. Shredding Party! Once cooked, remove the chicken to a cutting board. Use two forks to shred it into delicious strands. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir it into the sauce. Let it hang out for another 10-15 minutes to soak up all that yummy goodness.
7. Serve and Garnish: Dish out your low-cal masterpiece. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro. Now go enjoy!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overfilling Your Crockpot: Look, I get it, you want to cook *all the things*. But don’t fill it more than two-thirds full. It won’t cook evenly, and you might have a saucy explosion. No one wants a crockpot volcano.
• Lifting the Lid Too Often: Every time you peek, you’re letting heat escape and adding 20-30 minutes to your cooking time. Resist the urge, my friend. It’s like checking if the cookies are done every five minutes—they aren’t.
• Forgetting to Pat the Chicken Dry: Minor step, big impact. Wet chicken can lead to diluted flavors. Give it a quick blot!
• Under-Seasoning: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper! Taste as you go, especially at the end. You can always add more, but you can’t take it away.

Alternatives & Substitutions

• Veggies Galore: Want to bulk it up? Toss in some bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms during the last hour of cooking. They’ll soften nicely without getting mushy.
• Spice It Up (or Down): Not a fan of red pepper flakes? Skip ’em! Want more heat? Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne. Your mouth, your rules.
• Different Herb Vibes: Feel free to swap oregano and basil for Italian seasoning, or even add a bay leaf for extra depth. Experiment! IMO, fresh herbs are always better if you have them.
• Lemon Zest Boost: A little lemon zest added at the end can really brighten up the flavors. Trust me on this one.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

• Can I use frozen chicken? Well, technically yes, but it’s not ideal. It takes longer to cook evenly and might release more water, diluting your sauce. Thawing is always recommended for best results!
• What if I don’t have all the herbs? No stress! Use what you have. Italian seasoning is a great all-rounder. The key is *some* seasoning.
• Is it really low calorie? What can I serve it with? Yep, it totally is! Especially with lean chicken breast. Serve it over cauliflower rice, a big salad, in lettuce wraps, or with a small portion of quinoa. Keep it light!
• My chicken isn’t shredding easily. What went wrong? It’s probably not cooked long enough! Give it another hour or so on low. Patience, young padawan.
• Can I make a bigger batch? Absolutely! Just make sure your crockpot can handle it without being over two-thirds full. You might need to adjust cooking time slightly.
• How long does it last in the fridge? Cooked chicken typically lasts 3-4 days in an airtight container in the fridge. Perfect for meal prepping!

Final Thoughts

See? That wasn’t so scary, was it? You just conquered the crockpot, made a delicious, low-calorie meal, and barely lifted a finger. Now go impress someone—or yourself—with your new culinary skills. You’ve earned it! Seriously, pat yourself on the back. And maybe make a second batch for leftovers. Your future self will thank you. Happy cooking, you magnificent chef, you!