Are you craving delicious, healthy meals without spending hours in the kitchen? Then you've come to the right place! Slow cookers are a lifesaver for busy weeknights, and this recipe proves that healthy eating doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. We're diving into a world of flavorful, low-calorie dishes perfect for weight management or simply embracing a healthier lifestyle. Get ready to discover the magic of slow cooking and how easy it is to create quick dinner ideas that are both satisfying and nutritious.
Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Veggies
This recipe is a perfect example of a delicious and healthy meal easily prepared in your slow cooker. It’s packed with flavor and requires minimal effort, making it ideal for those busy weeknights when you need a quick dinner idea but still want something homemade and satisfying. This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes and best recipes that are light on calories.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup sliced carrots
- 1 cup chopped zucchini
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
Instructions:
- Place the chicken in the bottom of your slow cooker.
- Top with the onion, broccoli, carrots, and zucchini.
- Arrange the lemon slices over the vegetables.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken and vegetables.
- Pour the chicken broth into the slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
- Serve hot.
Cooking Tips for Best Results:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Don't overcook the chicken; it should be juicy and tender.
- Feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or green beans. Experiment with different healthy meals!
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Mediterranean Twist: Substitute oregano and thyme with Italian seasoning and add some chopped Kalamata olives and sun-dried tomatoes.
- Creamy Chicken: Stir in ½ cup of plain Greek yogurt or light cream cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a creamy sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
This slow cooker lemon herb chicken and veggies recipe is a fantastic option for healthy meals and provides a satisfying and delicious dinner without compromising on your health goals. It's a simple yet impressive dish that's perfect for both beginner cooks and experienced chefs looking for easy recipes and homemade cooking solutions. Enjoy!