chicken crockpot recipes healthy
When it comes to healthy home cooking, chicken crockpot recipes are truly a lifesaver. This Lemon-Herb Chicken and Veggie Delight is not just quick to prepare, but it also offers an amazing blend of flavors that fills your kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma. Using tender chicken breasts or thighs, vibrant vegetables, and zesty lemons, you’ll find that this dish scores high in taste while remaining nutritious. What makes it even better? It essentially cooks itself while you go about your day!
Table of Contents
I first stumbled upon this recipe during a particularly busy week when time was not on my side. I was eager for a wholesome meal but didn’t want to fuss over pots and pans. I pulled out my trusty crockpot and set to work. The simplicity was astonishing—15 minutes of prep, and the rest was hands-off magic. The result was a comforting, flavorful dish that my whole family devoured. This is a recipe you’ll return to time and again, especially when you’re looking for something healthy and hassle-free.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: Ready to eat in just 6-8 hours on low and only 15 minutes of prep!
- Irresistible Flavor: Fresh lemon and herbs create a refreshing zing that brightens the dish.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: The colorful array of vibrant veggies makes for a stunning presentation.
- Flexible Serving: Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or inviting friends over for a cozy gathering.
- Diet-Friendly Options: Naturally gluten-free and low in calories, it fits various dietary preferences.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Lean cuts that cook tenderly in the slow cooker. Feel free to substitute with turkey or chicken drumsticks if desired.
- 2 fresh lemons: One for slices adding zing during cooking, and one for juicing just before serving, enhancing brightness.
- 1 tsp dried mixed herbs (oregano, thyme, rosemary): These aromatic herbs impart a lovely depth of flavor; fresh herbs can be a delightful substitute if you have them on hand.
- 1 lb baby or chopped Yukon gold potatoes: Their creamy texture holds up wonderfully in slow cooking. Red potatoes also work nicely!
- 1 lb carrots, peeled and chopped: Sweet and colorful, they add nutrition and flavor, but frozen carrots can be a quick alternative.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Brightens the overall taste; shallots can be used for a milder flavor.
- 3-4 garlic cloves, minced: Adds rich flavor; you can also use garlic powder as a substitute.
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the chicken moist and adds a savory base; vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian adaptation.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Helps to enhance the flavors; avocado oil is a suitable alternative.
- 1 tsp salt or to taste: Essential for flavor; adjust based on your dietary needs or preference.
- 0.5 tsp black pepper or to taste: Provides a gentle kick; you can switch to white pepper for a milder taste.
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped for garnish: Brightens the final dish; basil or cilantro could bring unique flavors if you want to experiment.
How to Make chicken crockpot recipes healthy
Pat the Chicken Dry: Start by gently patting the 1.5 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs dry with paper towels. This step helps to ensure the chicken browns nicely and absorbs the flavors better.
Layer the Vegetables: Next, arrange 1 medium chopped onion, 1 lb peeled and chopped carrots, and 1 lb baby or chopped Yukon gold potatoes in the bottom of your crockpot. These veggies will create a flavorful base for the chicken to sit atop.
Place the Chicken: Position the dry chicken on top of the vibrant vegetable layer in the crockpot. Make sure to spread it out evenly for even cooking.
Prepare the Broth Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth, 3-4 minced garlic cloves, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp salt, 0.5 tsp black pepper, and 1 tsp dried mixed herbs (oregano, thyme, rosemary). This aromatic mixture is the secret to a deeply flavorful dish.
Pour the Mixture: Carefully pour the prepared broth mixture over the chicken and vegetables in the crockpot. It’s okay if the chicken isn’t completely submerged; it will cook beautifully.
Add the Lemon: Layer the lemon slices from one of your fresh lemons on top of the chicken. The lemons will release their juices and create a zesty flavor while the dish cooks.
Cover and Cook: Now it’s time to cover the crockpot! Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and tender.
Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the lemon slices and either shred the chicken directly in the crockpot with two forks or on a cutting board. It will pull apart effortlessly!
Stir It All Together: Gently stir all the delicious ingredients together in the crockpot. The veggies will soak up the flavors from the chicken and broth, creating a harmonious dish.
Garnish and Serve: Before serving, sprinkle the dish with 2 tbsp of freshly chopped parsley and a squeeze of juice from the second lemon. This adds a bright finishing touch that elevates the entire meal.
Storing & Reheating
Once the meal is fully prepared, if you have leftovers, let them cool down before placing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer-term storage, you may freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When reheating, warm it in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes or until heated through. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly, but adding a splash of chicken broth while reheating will bring it back to life!
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Remember that cooking times might vary based on the cut of chicken you use. Thighs are more forgiving than breasts, so if you’re opting for them, you may enjoy extra tenderness.
- Don’t skip patting the chicken dry; it helps create that coveted golden-brown exterior, even in a crockpot.
- For meal prep, chop all veggies the night before. You can even assemble everything in the pot and refrigerate, then cook the next day.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can uncover the crockpot for the last 30 minutes to reduce the liquid slightly.
- This dish can be tailored by adding other veggies you have on hand, like bell peppers or zucchini, to mix things up!
The burst of lemony goodness combined with the savoriness of the herbs makes every bite of this dish a delight. Whether you’re tackling a busy weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the upcoming week, this Lemon-Herb Chicken and Veggie Delight is sure to be a dish you’ll turn to often. Don’t hesitate to swap out vegetables or add your personal twists, as cooking is ultimately about joy and expression. Give it a try, and you’ll find just how satisfying and healthy chicken crockpot recipes can be!
Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken directly in the crockpot! Just be sure to increase the cooking time to about 7-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high. Ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F for food safety.
What if I don’t have fresh lemons?
If fresh lemons aren’t available, you could use bottled lemon juice as a substitute. Use about 3 tablespoons of lemon juice instead of one fresh lemon for the juice and adjust to taste. It’s also great to add a splash of vinegar for acidity!
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with your veggies. Peas, bell peppers, or even green beans can be great additions. Just remember that some vegetables may cook faster, so you might want to add them halfway through cooking.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
To check if the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer; it should register 165°F in the thickest part. Alternatively, if using thighs, they should easily shred apart when fully cooked and tender.
PrintMore Main Dishes Recipes
- Crockpot Short Rib Ragu
- Baked Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze
- Filet Mignon with Blue Cheese Butter
- Healthy Steak Avocado Corn Bowl
- Creamy Garlic Pasta | 30-Minute Easy Pasta Dinner
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
chicken crockpot recipes healthy
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 375 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: One Pot
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
Description
This lemon-herb chicken crockpot dish is bursting with flavor. The juicy chicken and fresh veggies blend perfectly for a healthy, easy meal, ideal for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 fresh lemons, one sliced for crockpot, one for juice
- 1 tsp dried mixed herbs (oregano, thyme, rosemary)
- 1 lb baby or chopped yukon gold potatoes
- 1 lb carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3–4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt or to taste
- 0.5 tsp black pepper or to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Dry the chicken breasts or thighs with paper towels.
- Layer the chopped onions, carrots, and potatoes at the bottom of the crockpot.
- Place the chicken on top of the vegetables in the crockpot.
- In a small bowl, mix the chicken broth, minced garlic, olive oil, dried herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the broth mixture over the chicken and vegetables.
- Add lemon slices on top of the chicken.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours until the chicken is fully cooked.
- After cooking, remove the lemon slices and shred the chicken in the crockpot or on a board before returning it to the pot.
- Gently stir the ingredients together in the crockpot.
- Before serving, garnish with chopped parsley and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
Notes
Use skinless chicken for a healthier option.
Feel free to substitute vegetables according to your preference.
Adjust seasoning to taste based on personal preferences.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
