Slow cookers are a game-changer for creating easy, protein-packed meals with minimal effort. These crockpot recipes are not only delicious but are filled with nutrients to keep you fueled throughout the day. Here are three high-protein crockpot recipes that are perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd.
(Download a FREE version of these Recipes at the bottom of the page)
1. Slow Cooker Creole Chicken and Sausage
This bold, flavorful dish is packed with protein and spice, making it a perfect hearty meal for the whole family.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 12 oz smoked Andouille sausage, cut into small rounds
- 1 cup chopped onions
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 1 1/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 3 tbsp tomato paste
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 2 tsp Creole seasoning
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
Optional Extras:
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 can (14 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 2 green bell peppers, chopped
- 1/2 cup sliced green onions for topping
- 2 tbsp almond butter (optional but adds a unique flavor)
- Salt to taste
- Brown rice for serving
Instructions:
- Add the essential ingredients to your crockpot. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3 hours.
- Once done, shred the chicken directly in the crockpot to your preferred texture.
- If adding extras, toss them in and cook for another 20-30 minutes.
- While waiting, prepare the rice if serving. Taste the chicken mixture and season with salt if necessary.
- Serve the Creole chicken over rice, topped with green onions.
Nutrition (Per Serving with black beans and almond butter):
- Calories: 479 kcal
- Protein: 40.5g
- Fat: 10.8g
- Carbs: 55g
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 7 hours, 40 minutes
Servings: 6
2. Slow Cooker Asian Chicken Lettuce Wraps
These Asian-inspired lettuce wraps are loaded with flavor and make a fantastic low-carb, high-protein meal option.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs ground chicken (not ground chicken breast)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup finely chopped yellow onion
- 1/2 cup hoisin sauce
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 can (8 oz) sliced water chestnuts, drained and rinsed
- 1 1/2 cups cooked white or brown rice
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar and 1 1/2 tsp sesame oil (optional)
- 2 heads iceberg lettuce, separated into leaves
Instructions:
- In a large microwave-safe bowl, microwave ground chicken and garlic, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink (5-6 minutes). Drain any excess liquid.
- Transfer the chicken mixture to a 5-7 quart slow cooker.
- Add bell pepper, onion, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp pepper. Toss to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is tender.
- Stir in water chestnuts, cooked rice, green onions, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Cook until heated through (3-5 minutes).
- Serve the chicken filling with iceberg lettuce leaves for wrapping.
Nutrition (Per Serving):
- Calories: 498 kcal
- Protein: 33g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbs: 60g
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 3 hours
Servings: 6
3. Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Quinoa Soup
This protein-packed soup combines the rich flavors of enchiladas with quinoa for a nutritious and warming meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups canned mild red enchilada sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 1/2 tsp ancho chili powder
- 1 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1 1/4 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 medium onion, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, crushed
- 2/3 cup dry quinoa
- 1 1/2 cups frozen corn
- 1 can (14.5 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
Toppings (Optional):
- Shredded Mexican blend cheese
- Sour cream
- Tortilla chips
Instructions:
- In a 6-7 quart slow cooker, add chicken broth, enchilada sauce, tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Add chicken, onion, and garlic. Cover and cook on low heat for about 6 hours.
- After 5 1/2 hours, add quinoa and continue cooking for another 30 minutes.
- Remove the onion and discard it. Take out the chicken, shred or dice it, and return it to the soup.
- Add corn and black beans, and heat through.
- Stir in avocado and cilantro. Serve warm with cheese, sour cream, and tortilla chips, if desired.
Nutrition (Per Serving):
- Calories: 490 kcal
- Protein: 40g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbs: 60g
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours, 5 minutes
Servings: 5
Grab the downloadable version of the Recipes HERE
These slow cooker recipes are ideal for busy days when you want a nutritious, high-protein meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy the convenience and the flavorful results!