15 Best Slow Cooker Chicken Recipes for Weight Loss

Eating healthy and losing weight doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice flavor or spend hours in the kitchen.

Slow cooker chicken recipes are a fantastic way to enjoy lean protein, wholesome ingredients, and bold flavors—all while keeping your calorie count in check.

With a slow cooker doing most of the work, you can set up your ingredients in the morning and come home to a delicious, ready-to-eat meal.

In this guide, we’ve gathered 15 of the best slow cooker chicken recipes that are designed for weight loss.

These recipes are not only low in calories and carbs but also packed with nutrients and natural flavors to support your fat loss goals.

1. Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken

This classic recipe is all about simplicity and flavor. Lean chicken breasts are marinated in a tangy blend of lemon juice, garlic, and herbs. The result is tender, juicy chicken with a slightly crispy exterior. It pairs beautifully with steamed veggies or a fresh salad, making it an ideal option for weight loss.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker and pour the marinade over them.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours (or on high for 3–4 hours) until the chicken is tender.
4. Remove the chicken, slice it, and serve over a bed of greens or with a side of steamed broccoli.

Pro Tip:
For extra brightness, garnish with fresh lemon slices and chopped parsley. This recipe works well with leftover vegetables stirred in at the end.

2. Slow Cooker Chicken and Vegetable Stew

Packed with lean chicken and a rainbow of vegetables, this hearty stew is both filling and low in calories. The slow cooking process melds all the flavors together, creating a comforting dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner while supporting your weight loss journey.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 large carrot, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned, no-salt-added)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed

Instructions:

1. Add chicken, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, and tomatoes to the slow cooker.
2. Pour in chicken broth and add thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook on low for 6–7 hours (or on high for 3–4 hours). Add the green beans during the last 30 minutes.
4. Remove the bay leaf and shred the chicken before serving.

Pro Tip:
A splash of lemon juice added just before serving can brighten the flavors. This stew makes great leftovers and freezes well for future meals.

3. Slow Cooker Chicken Chili

For a twist on traditional chili, this slow cooker chicken chili is both light and satisfying. Using shredded chicken, tomatoes, and a blend of spices, it’s a hearty dish that delivers protein and fiber without excessive calories.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Place chicken, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and bell pepper into the slow cooker.
2. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook on low for 6–8 hours (or on high for 4 hours).
4. Shred the chicken in the slow cooker and stir well before serving.

Pro Tip:
Top with a dollop of low-fat Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of chopped cilantro when reheating for a creamy, tangy finish.

4. Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup

This vibrant, low-calorie soup is full of bold flavors and lean protein. Chicken, tomatoes, and spices simmer together to create a rich broth, and topping it with crispy tortilla strips adds a satisfying crunch without extra oil.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Juice of 1 lime
• Optional: tortilla strips for topping

Instructions:

1. Combine chicken, tomatoes, chicken broth, onion, garlic, corn, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper in the slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3–4 hours until the chicken is tender.
3. Shred the chicken and stir in lime juice.
4. Serve with a handful of crispy tortilla strips on top if desired.

Pro Tip:
Add extra heat with a few dashes of hot sauce, and store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days.

5. Slow Cooker Chicken Curry

A flavorful chicken curry made in the slow cooker is a fantastic low-carb option that still feels indulgent. Tender chicken cooks with coconut milk and aromatic spices, resulting in a creamy, satisfying dish perfect for weight loss.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts, cubed
• 1 can (14 oz) light coconut milk
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 2 tablespoons curry powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup cauliflower florets (optional, for extra veggies)

Instructions:

1. Place chicken, onion, garlic, ginger, and cauliflower (if using) in the slow cooker.
2. Stir in coconut milk, curry powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours until the chicken is tender.
4. Serve over a small portion of cauliflower rice for a complete low-carb meal.

Pro Tip:
A sprinkle of chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice just before serving add freshness and a burst of flavor.

6. Slow Cooker Chicken Fajitas

Transform chicken into a fiesta of flavors with these slow cooker chicken fajitas. Sliced chicken breasts, bell peppers, and onions are marinated in fajita seasoning and cooked until tender, then shredded and served with fresh salsa.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts, sliced into strips
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Juice of 1 lime

Instructions:

1. Combine chicken, bell peppers, and onion in the slow cooker.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Squeeze lime juice over the top.
4. Cook on low for 6 hours (or on high for 3–4 hours) until the chicken is tender.
5. Shred the chicken and mix well with the veggies before serving.

Pro Tip:
Serve these fajitas over a bed of lettuce or inside low-carb tortillas for a delicious, light meal.

7. Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken

BBQ chicken doesn’t have to be heavy on sugars and calories. This recipe uses a homemade, low-sugar barbecue sauce to flavor tender chicken that falls apart effortlessly. It’s perfect for meal prep and can be served with a side of steamed vegetables or a salad.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
• 1/2 cup low-sugar BBQ sauce
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Place chicken in the slow cooker.
2. In a bowl, mix BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, water, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the sauce over the chicken.
4. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours until the chicken is tender.
5. Shred the chicken and stir to coat it in the sauce.

Pro Tip:
This chicken is versatile—serve it over a green salad or with a side of roasted Brussels sprouts for a complete low-calorie meal.

8. Slow Cooker Greek Chicken

Infused with Mediterranean flavors, this Greek chicken recipe features herbs, olives, and a tangy lemon sauce that melds beautifully during slow cooking. It’s both light and satisfying, ideal for weight loss.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Place chicken in the slow cooker.
2. Add diced tomatoes, olives, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.
4. Slice or shred the chicken and serve with a side of steamed green beans or over a small serving of quinoa (if your carb allowance permits).

Pro Tip:
Garnish with a few fresh basil leaves for an added layer of Mediterranean freshness.

9. Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore

This Italian-inspired dish is a delicious medley of chicken, tomatoes, bell peppers, and herbs. It’s low in calories yet rich in flavor—perfect for a hearty, healthy meal that’s great for weight loss.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts, cut into chunks
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine chicken, onion, bell pepper, diced tomatoes, and garlic in the slow cooker.
2. Add basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours until the chicken is tender.
4. Stir well and serve hot over a bed of steamed vegetables or a light salad.

Pro Tip:
A small handful of chopped fresh parsley added at the end enhances the dish with a burst of color and flavor.

10. Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo (Low-Carb)

Replace traditional pasta with tender broccoli in this low-carb version of chicken Alfredo. Lean chicken and broccoli are smothered in a creamy, lighter Alfredo sauce that’s made with low-fat milk and a modest amount of cheese.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup low-fat milk
• 1/2 cup low-fat Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Instructions:

1. Place chicken and broccoli in the slow cooker.
2. In a bowl, whisk together low-fat milk, Parmesan cheese, garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
3. Pour the sauce over the chicken and broccoli.
4. Cook on low for 4–5 hours or on high for 2–3 hours until the chicken is cooked through and the broccoli is tender.
5. Stir well and serve immediately.

Pro Tip:
If the sauce is too thin, stir in a slurry of almond flour and water during the last 15 minutes of cooking to thicken it up slightly.

11. Slow Cooker Chicken and Mushroom Medley

For a dish that’s both earthy and satisfying, try this chicken and mushroom medley. Chicken breasts and a mix of mushrooms simmer in a light broth with garlic and thyme, creating a low-calorie meal perfect for weight loss.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts, whole or cut into pieces
• 2 cups mixed mushrooms, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Add chicken, mushrooms, onion, garlic, and chicken broth to the slow cooker.
2. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours until the chicken is tender.
4. Serve as is or shred the chicken and stir into the sauce.

Pro Tip:
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed spinach or a light salad to add extra greens to your meal.

12. Slow Cooker Chicken and Cabbage Soup

A light, broth-based soup that’s ideal for weight loss, this chicken and cabbage soup is both filling and low in calories. Tender chicken, crisp cabbage, and other hearty vegetables simmer together to create a nutritious meal prep option.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts, whole or cubed
• 1 small head of cabbage, chopped
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 onion, diced
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Place chicken, cabbage, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic into the slow cooker.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and add thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.
4. Remove the chicken to shred it, then stir it back into the soup.
5. Serve hot in meal prep containers.

Pro Tip:
A splash of apple cider vinegar added before serving brightens the flavors and balances the savory broth.

13. Slow Cooker Chicken Pesto

For a burst of fresh flavor, this chicken pesto recipe infuses lean chicken with basil and garlic. The chicken cooks in a light, aromatic pesto sauce that’s perfect over a bed of spiralized vegetables or cauliflower rice.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
• 1/2 cup fresh basil pesto (homemade or low-calorie store-bought)
• 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Place the chicken in the slow cooker.
2. Pour basil pesto and chicken broth over the top.
3. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3–4 hours until the chicken is tender.
5. Slice or shred the chicken and mix with the pesto sauce before serving.

Pro Tip:
Garnish with a few extra basil leaves and serve with a side of steamed green beans for a light, flavorful meal.

14. Slow Cooker Moroccan Chicken Tagine

This exotic recipe combines warm spices with tender chicken for a unique low-calorie meal. The slow cooker melds flavors of cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and a touch of preserved lemon to create a rich, aromatic dish that’s perfect for weight loss.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts, cut into cubes
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1 preserved lemon, pulp removed and rind thinly sliced (optional)
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Place chicken, onion, garlic, and preserved lemon (if using) in the slow cooker.
2. Sprinkle with cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour in chicken broth and stir to combine.
4. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours until the chicken is tender.
5. Serve over a small portion of cauliflower rice or with a side of steamed vegetables.

Pro Tip:
If you can’t find preserved lemon, a little extra lemon juice and zest can work as a substitute. The dish is vibrant, aromatic, and perfectly suited for a low-carb, weight-loss lifestyle.

15. Slow Cooker Chicken and Spinach Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

For a creative and elegant low-calorie meal, try these stuffed portobello mushrooms. Large portobello caps are filled with a mixture of shredded chicken, fresh spinach, garlic, and a touch of low-fat cheese, then slow-cooked until tender.

Ingredients:

• 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed
• 1 cup shredded chicken (leftover or pre-cooked)
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup low-fat mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine shredded chicken, chopped spinach, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Stuff each portobello cap with the mixture.
3. Place stuffed mushrooms in the slow cooker.
4. Sprinkle a little mozzarella cheese on top of each.
5. Cook on low for 3–4 hours until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is heated through.

Pro Tip:
These stuffed mushrooms are excellent served as a main dish with a side salad or as a hearty appetizer. They add a gourmet touch to your meal prep routine while keeping calories low.

Conclusion

Slow cooker chicken recipes are a game changer for anyone striving to lose weight without compromising on taste or convenience. These 15 recipes offer a wide range of flavors—from tangy and zesty to warm and aromatic—ensuring that your meal plan remains exciting all week long.

By using lean proteins, fresh vegetables, and minimal added fats, each dish is designed to help you reach your weight loss goals while providing the nutrients your body needs.

With simple prep, minimal cleanup, and robust flavors, your slow cooker can be your best friend in the kitchen. Enjoy these recipes, experiment with your favorite seasonings, and savor every bite on your journey to a healthier you!

Happy cooking, and here’s to delicious, weight-loss-friendly meals that make every day a bit easier and a lot more flavorful!