Are you looking for delicious and healthy dinner ideas that are also diabetic-friendly? Then you've come to the right place! Crock pot cooking is a fantastic way to create flavorful, low-effort meals, perfect for busy weeknights and those watching their blood sugar. This recipe focuses on tender, juicy chicken cooked to perfection in your slow cooker, resulting in a satisfying and healthy dish. It's one of the best recipes for effortless homemade cooking, ideal for quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste, using a diabetic-friendly salt substitute)
- Optional: 1 cup broccoli florets or other low-carb vegetables
Instructions:
- Prep the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker.
- Sauté Aromatics (Optional but Recommended): For a richer flavor, lightly sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in a pan with a little olive oil before adding them to the slow cooker. This step enhances the overall taste of the dish.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the chicken broth, applesauce, balsamic vinegar, oregano, basil, pepper, and salt to the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork.
- Add Vegetables (Optional): If using vegetables like broccoli, add them during the last hour of cooking time.
- Shred and Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine it with the sauce. Serve hot.
Tips for Diabetic-Friendly Cooking:
- Control Sodium: Always use low-sodium or no-salt-added ingredients whenever possible. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, considering a diabetic-friendly salt substitute if required.
- Portion Control: Be mindful of your portion sizes to manage your carbohydrate intake.
- Choose Healthy Fats: Opt for healthier fats like olive oil instead of butter or other high-fat options.
- Experiment with Spices: Enhance the flavor of your dishes with herbs and spices without adding extra calories or sugar.
Variations:
- Lemon Herb Chicken: Add the zest and juice of one lemon along with some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a zesty twist.
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Mediterranean Chicken: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese (in moderation) for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes. Always consult a nutritionist or dietitian for personalized dietary advice.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10g
- Fat: Approximately 8-12g
This easy crock pot recipe is a great example of healthy meals that are both delicious and convenient. Enjoy this simple yet satisfying diabetic-friendly chicken recipe! Remember to always consult with your doctor or a registered dietitian to create a meal plan that best suits your individual needs and health goals.