Introduction
Weeknight dinners can often become a struggle, especially when trying to balance convenience and nutrition. If you’re looking for delicious, healthy meals that don’t require hours in the kitchen, crockpot low calorie Asian chicken recipes are the answer. These recipes not only bring incredible flavors but also help you maintain a healthy lifestyle without sacrificing taste.
Using a crockpot makes meal prep incredibly easy, allowing you to throw in your ingredients, set it, and forget it until dinner time. The result? Tender, juicy chicken infused with mouthwatering Asian spices. In this article, we will explore various low calorie Asian chicken recipes that are perfect for those busy weeknights.
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
6 hours
Total Time:
6 hours 10 minutes
Serving:
4 servings
Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
- Place chicken breasts in the crockpot and pour the sauce over the top, ensuring the chicken is well coated.
- Add sliced bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots to the crockpot, stirring gently to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Once done, shred the chicken using two forks, mixing it back into the sauce and vegetables.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Additional Variations of Asian Chicken Recipes
There are numerous ways to enjoy crockpot low calorie Asian chicken recipes. Here are some variations to keep your weeknight dinners exciting.
1. Teriyaki Chicken
For a sweet and savory twist, replace the soy sauce and honey with teriyaki sauce. Add pineapple chunks for an extra burst of flavor. This dish pairs wonderfully with brown rice or cauliflower rice for a low-calorie option.
2. Thai Peanut Chicken
Add a delicious peanut sauce to your chicken by combining natural peanut butter with soy sauce, lime juice, and a bit of honey. Toss in some shredded cabbage and carrots for a crunchy texture that complements the rich sauce.
3. Sweet and Sour Chicken
Substitute the honey with a mixture of ketchup and vinegar for a sweet and sour flavor. Add diced pineapple and bell peppers for a colorful and vibrant dish that’s sure to please the whole family.
Meal Prep and Storage Tips
These crockpot low calorie Asian chicken recipes are not only perfect for dinner but also fantastic for meal prep. Here are some tips to ensure you maximize your time in the kitchen.
Batch Cooking
Consider doubling your recipe and storing half for later in the week. This method saves time and guarantees you have a healthy meal ready to go on busy days.
Proper Storage
Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze portions for up to three months. Just remember to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating Tips
When reheating, use the microwave or stovetop. If using the stovetop, add a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture in your chicken and vegetables.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken in the crockpot?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken in the crockpot, but it is recommended to thaw it first for more even cooking. Cooking from frozen may require additional cooking time.
How do I make the chicken more tender?
To ensure tender chicken, avoid overcooking and make sure to cook on low heat. Shredding the chicken after cooking allows it to absorb more flavor from the sauce.
What can I serve with these recipes?
These Asian chicken dishes pair well with steamed rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them in lettuce wraps for a fun twist.
Can I customize the vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute your favorite vegetables such as snap peas, zucchini, or mushrooms. Just remember to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking.
Conclusion
Crockpot low calorie Asian chicken recipes are perfect for easy weeknight meals that are both healthy and delicious. With a variety of flavors and easy preparation, you can enjoy a delightful dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
Try out these recipes for a nutritious twist on traditional Asian cuisine that the whole family will love. Happy cooking!
