Are you tired of sacrificing flavor for convenience when it comes to weeknight meals? Look no further! With these 20 delicious slow cooker recipes, you can have a healthy and satisfying meal on the table with minimal effort. Slow cookers are a busy person’s best friend, allowing you to prepare a meal in the morning and come home to a ready-to-eat dinner.
From classic comfort foods like chili and stew to international-inspired dishes like Moroccan tagine and Thai peanut chicken, these recipes offer something for everyone. And the best part? They’re all easy to make and packed with nutrients, making them perfect for a family dinner or a quick lunch. In this article, we’ll dive into 20 of our favorite slow cooker healthy recipes that are sure to become staples in your kitchen.
Slow Cooker Chicken and Quinoa Stew
This recipe is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, combining the tender chicken with the nutty quinoa and a medley of vegetables. It’s a great option for a busy day when you want to come home to a delicious meal that’s ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add chicken, quinoa, water or broth, bell pepper, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, and cumin to the slow cooker.
2. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Healthy Slow Cooker Turkey Chili
This recipe is a hearty and nutritious twist on traditional chili, packed with lean protein, fiber-rich beans, and vegetables. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep, this slow cooker turkey chili is easy to make and bursting with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup cooked kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Brown the turkey in a skillet over medium-high heat; drain excess fat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Transfer mixture to slow cooker; add remaining ingredients.
4. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Slow Cooker Lentil and Vegetable Soup
This slow cooker recipe is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, packed with lentils, vegetables, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a comforting meal on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
2. Cook on Low for 8 hours or High for 4 hours.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Low-Carb Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Warm up with a comforting and satisfying slow cooker stew that’s perfect for a chilly day. This recipe is a low-carb twist on the classic dish, using beef, vegetables, and herbs to create a flavorful and filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup red wine
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine the sliced onion, minced garlic, mixed mushrooms, and frozen peas.
2. Add the beef stew meat, beef broth, red wine, and dried thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Moroccan Chickpea Tagine
Slow Cooker Moroccan Chickpea Tagine: A flavorful and aromatic stew that’s perfect for a cozy dinner or potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can crushed tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the olive oil, onion, garlic, red bell pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, ginger, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
2. Stir in the chickpeas, crushed tomatoes, and chicken broth.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Greek Lemon Chicken with Potatoes
This classic Greek-inspired dish is a perfect blend of bright citrus flavors and tender chicken, all made easy in the slow cooker. Serve with crusty bread and a side salad for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine chicken, potatoes, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and stir to coat.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Black Bean and Sweet Potato Chili
Warm up with this comforting and nutritious slow cooker chili that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the earthy flavor of black beans. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, cubed sweet potato, black beans, red bell pepper, diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in water.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro, scallions, or a dollop of Greek yogurt (optional).
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Coconut Curry Lentils
This slow cooker recipe combines the comforting warmth of lentils with the creamy richness of coconut curry, perfect for a cozy night in. With minimal effort and prep time, you’ll be rewarded with a flavorful and nutritious meal that’s sure to become a staple.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine lentils, onion, garlic, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric.
2. Add coconut oil, coconut milk, and vegetable broth. Stir to combine.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Balsamic Garlic Chicken
This recipe combines the rich flavors of balsamic vinegar and roasted garlic with tender chicken, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 head of garlic, roasted (see notes)
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the roasted garlic to the slow cooker.
3. Place the chicken breasts on top of the garlic mixture.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes: To roast garlic, preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the top off a whole head of garlic, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap in foil. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
Slow Cooker Quinoa and Vegetable Stir-Fry
A healthy and flavorful one-pot meal that’s perfect for a busy day. This recipe combines the nutty taste of quinoa with the sweetness of vegetables, all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 carrot, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: soy sauce or stir-fry sauce for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Rinse quinoa and add it to the slow cooker with water or broth.
2. Heat olive oil in a pan, then sauté onion, garlic, bell pepper, and carrot until tender.
3. Add cooked vegetables and peas & carrots to the slow cooker with quinoa mixture.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and optional soy sauce or stir-fry sauce.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Spinach and Mushroom Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the earthy taste of mushrooms with the nutrients of spinach and bell peppers. Perfect for a busy day, it’s easy to prepare and cooks all day in your slow cooker.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. Cut off tops of peppers, remove seeds and membranes, and place in the cooker.
3. In a bowl, mix together mushrooms, spinach, onion, rice, diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each pepper with the mixture, filling to the top.
5. Cover cooker and cook for 6-8 hours or overnight.
6. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Salmon with Asparagus
Elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this flavorful and healthy slow cooker recipe that combines tender salmon, tangy lemon, and savory garlic with a side of crispy asparagus.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, and thyme.
2. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper; place them on top of the lemon mixture.
3. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, toss asparagus with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place it in the slow cooker with the salmon.
5. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-5 hours
Slow Cooker Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken
A flavorful and spicy twist on traditional chicken dishes, this slow cooker recipe combines the creamy richness of peanut sauce with the bold flavors of Thailand. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
2. Add chicken breasts to the mixture; cover with chicken broth and coconut milk.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Mediterranean Eggplant and Chickpeas
Experience the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this simple and satisfying slow cooker recipe. This hearty dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine eggplant slices, chickpeas, onion, garlic, chicken broth, olive oil, lemon juice, and oregano.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
5. Serve hot over rice or with crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Butternut Squash and Apple Soup
This slow cooker recipe combines the sweetness of butternut squash and apples with a hint of spice, making it a perfect comfort food for chilly fall days.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 apples, peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Peel the butternut squash and chop it into 1-inch pieces.
2. In the slow cooker, combine the squash, apples, butter, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour in the broth and stir to combine.
4. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
5. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
6. Stir in heavy cream (if using) and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 8 hours (low), 4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Cilantro Lime Chicken with Cauliflower Rice
This recipe combines the bright flavors of cilantro and lime with tender chicken and a nutritious twist on traditional rice. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
– 1 large head of cauliflower
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, whisk together cilantro, lime juice, cumin, and smoked paprika (if using).
2. Add chicken breasts and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, pulse cauliflower florets in a food processor until rice-like.
4. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Cook cauliflower “rice” for 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
5. Serve chicken with cauliflower “rice” and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Teriyaki Tofu and Broccoli
This recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy teriyaki flavors with tofu and broccoli, all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups of broccoli florets
– 1/4 cup of teriyaki sauce
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the tofu and broccoli to the slow cooker; stir to combine.
3. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Mexican Quinoa Casserole
Slow Cooker Mexican Quinoa Casserole: A flavorful and nutritious meal perfect for a crowd!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine quinoa, water or broth, diced tomatoes with green chilies, black beans, onion, red bell pepper, olive oil, cumin, and chili powder.
2. Stir well to combine.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Just before serving, season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Turkey Breast
This recipe yields a moist and flavorful turkey breast infused with the savory flavors of garlic, herbs, and spices. Perfect for a stress-free weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the garlic, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the turkey breast in a slow cooker and rub the garlic-herb mixture all over it.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time:
– Low: 6-8 hours
– High: 4-6 hours
Slow Cooker Kale and White Bean Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of tender kale, creamy white beans, and aromatic spices, all simmered to perfection in your slow cooker. Perfect for a chilly day or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups kale leaves, stems removed and chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the soaked navy beans, onion, garlic, kale, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, and smoked paprika to your slow cooker.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Summary
Get ready to cook up a storm with these 20 delicious and healthy slow cooker recipes perfect for busy weeknights! From hearty stews and soups to flavorful curries and casseroles, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Discover dishes like Slow Cooker Chicken and Quinoa Stew, Healthy Slow Cooker Turkey Chili, and many more. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, these slow cooker meals are a game-changer for any busy household.
