Low Calorie Chicken Crock Pot Recipes

Cooking low calorie meals in a crock pot is a smart and stress-free way to stay healthy without sacrificing flavor. With minimal prep and hands-off cooking, it makes healthy eating more accessible, even for busy schedules. This method helps you control portions, use fresh ingredients, and avoid unhealthy cooking oils.

Essential Tips for Making Low Calorie Chicken Crock Pot Recipes

Creating delicious, low calorie meals in a crock pot is all about smart ingredient choices and cooking techniques. By focusing on lean meats, nutrient-dense ingredients, and thoughtful prep, you can enjoy satisfying dishes without compromising your health goals.

Choosing the Right Chicken Cuts for Lower Calories

The type of chicken you use has a significant impact on calorie count. For the lowest calorie option, skinless chicken breast is your best bet. It’s lean, protein-packed, and easy to shred for soups, stews, and bowls.

• Skinless chicken breast: Very low in fat and ideal for weight-conscious recipes.
• Chicken tenderloins: A slightly smaller, equally lean alternative.
• Avoid skin-on thighs or drumsticks: While flavorful, they add unnecessary fat and calories.

Low Calorie Ingredients to Add Flavor Without Fat

You do not need butter or heavy cream to create rich, flavorful crock pot meals. There are plenty of healthy ingredients that keep the calories low and taste high.

• Herbs and spices: Garlic, basil, oregano, cumin, thyme, rosemary, paprika, turmeric.
• Low sodium broth: Adds flavor without extra calories or salt.
• Citrus juice: Lemon or lime enhances flavor naturally.
• Tomato-based sauces: A low calorie alternative to creamy sauces.
• Vegetables: Bell peppers, onions, carrots, celery, and spinach bring texture and nutrients.

Portion Control and Meal Prep Tips

Controlling portions is key to keeping calories in check. Crock pot meals often make multiple servings, making it easy to prep ahead and avoid overeating.

• Use measuring tools: Scoop out your meals using a cup or food scale for accuracy.
• Pre-portion into containers: Store leftovers in individual meal prep containers to avoid double servings.
• Add high-fiber sides: Pair with a small serving of brown rice, quinoa, or roasted veggies for balanced nutrition.

Best Low Calorie Chicken Crock Pot Recipes

If you’re looking for flavorful and nutritious meals that support a healthy lifestyle, these low calorie chicken crock pot recipes are perfect for everyday cooking. They’re easy to prepare, great for meal prep, and full of satisfying ingredients.

Crock Pot Chicken and Vegetable Stew

This hearty stew is packed with lean protein and a colorful mix of vegetables. It’s a wholesome comfort food option that keeps calories low and nutrients high.

Ingredients

• 2 skinless, boneless chicken breasts, diced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cups chopped spinach or kale
• 1 zucchini, chopped
• 1 can diced tomatoes (no salt added)
• 4 cups low sodium chicken broth
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Add the diced chicken, chopped vegetables, and garlic into the crock pot.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes.
3. Sprinkle thyme, black pepper, and optional salt over the mixture.
4. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours.
6. Stir once before serving to mix the flavors.

Nutritional Info

• Serving size: 1.5 cups
• Calories per serving: Approximately 230
• Protein: 26 grams
• Carbohydrates: 15 grams
• Fat: 5 grams
• Fiber: 4 grams

Slow Cooker Chicken Chili (Low Calorie & High Protein)

This chicken chili is a warm, hearty dish loaded with flavor, high in protein, and low in fat. It is perfect for a cozy night or weekly meal prep without compromising your calorie goals.

Ingredients

• 2 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
• 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 can corn, drained
• 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup low sodium chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Place chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker.
2. Add all beans, corn, tomatoes, onion, garlic, and spices.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and stir gently to combine.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours.
5. Once cooked, shred the chicken inside the pot using two forks and mix it into the chili.
6. Serve hot, optionally topped with fresh cilantro or a small spoon of low-fat Greek yogurt.

Calories and Macros

• Serving size: 1.5 cups
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250
• Protein: 28 grams
• Carbohydrates: 22 grams
• Fat: 4 grams
• Fiber: 6 grams

Low Calorie Chicken and Quinoa Soup

This light yet filling chicken and quinoa soup is the perfect blend of lean protein, whole grains, and vegetables. It is ideal for a nutritious lunch or dinner that keeps calories low and energy high.

Ingredients List

• 1 skinless, boneless chicken breast, diced
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 zucchini, chopped
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups low sodium chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Juice of half a lemon (optional)

Preparation Steps

1. In the crock pot, add chicken, carrots, celery, zucchini, onion, garlic, and chicken broth.
2. Sprinkle in oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir gently.
3. Cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, add cooked quinoa and stir.
5. Just before serving, squeeze in fresh lemon juice for a boost of flavor.

Health Benefits

• High protein from chicken and quinoa helps with muscle repair and satiety.
• Quinoa is a complete protein and provides essential amino acids.
• Low in fat and calories, making it perfect for weight management.
• Rich in fiber from vegetables and quinoa, aiding digestion.
• Hydrating and soothing, ideal for recovery or cold weather meals.

Crock Pot Lemon Garlic Chicken Breast

This crock pot lemon garlic chicken breast recipe is zesty, tender, and incredibly easy to prepare. It is low in calories, full of protein, and perfect for a clean, flavorful meal.

Recipe Overview

• 2 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon parsley flakes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ¼ cup low sodium chicken broth

Cooking Directions

1. Place the chicken breasts in the crock pot.
2. In a small bowl, mix lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, parsley, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the mixture over the chicken and add chicken broth to keep it moist.
4. Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours.
5. Once done, serve with steamed vegetables or brown rice for a complete meal.

Calories per Serving

• Serving size: 1 chicken breast
• Calories: Approximately 210
• Protein: 27 grams
• Carbohydrates: 2 grams
• Fat: 9 grams
• Fiber: 0 grams

Customizing Your Crock Pot Chicken Recipes

Making crock pot chicken meals your own is simple and flexible. With a few ingredient swaps, you can tailor any recipe to match your dietary needs and preferences.

Swapping Ingredients for Dietary Needs

You can easily substitute ingredients based on your health goals or restrictions without compromising flavor or texture.

• Use chicken thighs for more flavor if calories are not a concern.
• Replace white rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice for added fiber or lower carbs.
• Use low sodium broth or homemade stock to control salt intake.
• Swap out canned ingredients for fresh ones to reduce preservatives and added sugars.
• Choose Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a creamy texture with more protein.

Making Recipes Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, or Low Carb

Adjusting your chicken crock pot recipes for specific dietary lifestyles is easier than ever.

• Gluten-Free: Ensure all spices, broths, and sauces are certified gluten-free. Avoid wheat-based thickeners.
• Dairy-Free: Replace any creamy ingredients with unsweetened almond milk, coconut milk, or dairy-free yogurt.
• Low Carb: Focus on non-starchy vegetables like spinach, zucchini, and bell peppers. Avoid corn, beans, and potatoes. Use cauliflower rice instead of grains.

Tips for Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Proper storage and reheating techniques help preserve the flavor, texture, and nutritional value of your crock pot chicken meals.

Best Practices for Storage and Freezing

Storing leftovers correctly ensures they stay fresh and safe to eat. Freezing meals in portions also makes busy days easier.

• Let the food cool completely before storing to avoid moisture buildup.
• Use airtight containers to keep leftovers fresh for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
• For freezing, portion meals into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Label them with the date.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Reheat Without Losing Flavor or Texture

Reheating meals the right way helps maintain their original flavor and juiciness. It also prevents overcooking and dryness.

• Reheat slowly on the stove over low to medium heat to retain moisture.
• If using a microwave, cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel to avoid drying out.
• Add a splash of broth or water while reheating to restore moisture.
• Avoid overheating, especially with lean chicken cuts, to prevent toughness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen chicken in crock pot recipes?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken in crock pot recipes. However, it may take longer to cook, so be sure to check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.

2. How long can I store leftovers from crock pot chicken recipes?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze them in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

3. Can I adjust the seasoning in crock pot chicken recipes?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the seasoning to suit your taste preferences. You can add more spices or herbs to enhance the flavor.

4. Are crock pot chicken recipes suitable for meal prep?

Yes, crock pot chicken recipes are perfect for meal prep. They can be made in bulk and stored for several days, making them an excellent option for busy schedules.

5. Can I make these recipes low carb?

Yes, many of these recipes can be made low carb by replacing starchy ingredients like potatoes or rice with cauliflower or non-starchy vegetables.

6. How do I prevent my chicken from becoming dry in the crock pot?

To prevent dry chicken, ensure there’s enough liquid in the crock pot and cook on low heat. Avoid overcooking, and try adding a bit of broth or water if needed during cooking.

Conclusion

Low calorie chicken crock pot recipes are a great way to enjoy healthy, flavorful meals with minimal effort. By customizing ingredients and following proper storage and reheating techniques, you can ensure delicious meals every time. These recipes not only fit into various dietary needs but also make meal prep a breeze.