20 Simple Easy Healthy Crockpot Recipes Flavorful

Posted on March 20, 2025

Busy weeknights call for easy, healthy meals—and your trusty crockpot is here to save the day! From cozy comfort foods to fresh seasonal favorites, these 20 simple recipes pack big flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re craving hearty stews, zesty tacos, or light veggie-packed dishes, we’ve got your slow cooker inspiration covered. Let’s dive in and make dinner deliciously effortless!

Slow Cooker Chicken Quinoa Stew

Slow Cooker Chicken Quinoa Stew

This hearty, protein-packed stew practically cooks itself—just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic while you go about your day.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 3/4 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, sliced into coins
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Add chicken thighs, quinoa, onion, carrots, celery, and garlic to a 6-quart slow cooker.
  2. Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes, then sprinkle with thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir gently to combine.
  3. Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours, until chicken shreds easily and quinoa is tender.
  4. Use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the pot. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  5. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.

The quinoa thickens the stew beautifully while keeping it light—no heavy cream or roux required! Leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors meld.

Tip: For extra depth, brown the chicken thighs in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker.

Vegetarian Lentil and Sweet Potato Curry

Vegetarian Lentil and Sweet Potato Curry

This hearty curry is a cozy hug in a bowl—creamy sweet potatoes, earthy lentils, and warm spices come together in a dish that’s as nourishing as it is flavorful.

Ingredients:

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
  • 1 tbsp curry powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed (about 3 cups)
  • 1 cup dried brown or green lentils, rinsed
  • 1 (14-oz) can diced tomatoes
  • 1 (14-oz) can coconut milk
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tsp salt
  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 5 minutes until soft. Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
  2. Add 1 tbsp curry powder, 1 tsp cumin, 1/2 tsp turmeric, and 1/4 tsp cayenne (if using). Toast for 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
  3. Add the sweet potato, lentils, diced tomatoes (with juices), coconut milk, 2 cups broth, and 1 tsp salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lentils and sweet potatoes are tender.
  4. Serve warm, topped with fresh cilantro.

The creamy coconut milk balances the earthy lentils and spices, while the sweet potatoes add just the right touch of natural sweetness. Tip: For extra richness, swirl in a spoonful of plain yogurt before serving.

Crockpot Turkey and Black Bean Chili

Crockpot Turkey and Black Bean Chili

This hearty chili is a set-it-and-forget-it dream—packed with lean turkey, smoky spices, and creamy black beans for a fuss-free meal that tastes like it simmered all day.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 yellow onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 (15 oz) cans black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

  1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high. Add ground turkey and cook for 5 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon, until no longer pink. Transfer to a 6-quart crockpot.
  2. To the crockpot, add diced onion, red bell pepper, minced garlic, black beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and 2 tbsp tomato paste. Stir in 1 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
  3. Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours, until the peppers are tender and flavors meld.

The smoky paprika and cumin give this chili a deep, cozy flavor, while the black beans add just the right creamy texture—no mushy beans here!

Tip: Top with avocado or shredded cheese for extra richness, or stir in a splash of lime juice before serving to brighten it up.

Healthy Crockpot Beef and Broccoli

Healthy Crockpot Beef and Broccoli

This slow-cooked version of beef and broccoli delivers all the savory-sweet flavors you love, with minimal effort and maximum tenderness.

Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lbs flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
  • 3 cups broccoli florets
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In your crockpot, whisk together the 1/2 cup soy sauce, 1/4 cup honey, 2 tbsp rice vinegar, 3 cloves minced garlic, 1 tbsp ginger, and 1 tbsp sesame oil. Add the flank steak and toss to coat.
  2. Cover and cook on LOW for 5 hours or HIGH for 3 hours, until the beef is fork-tender.
  3. In a small bowl, mix the 1 tbsp cornstarch with 1/4 cup water until smooth. Stir into the crockpot along with the 3 cups broccoli florets and 1 tsp red pepper flakes (if using).
  4. Cover and cook on HIGH for 15–20 minutes, until the sauce thickens and the broccoli is crisp-tender.

The magic here? The honey caramelizes slightly as it slow-cooks, giving the sauce a rich depth that pairs perfectly with tender beef and fresh broccoli.

Tip: For extra crunch, add the broccoli during the last 10 minutes if you prefer it less soft.

Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken

Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken

This fuss-free chicken dish is bursting with bright citrus and savory garlic—perfect for busy weeknights when you want maximum flavor with minimal effort.

Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 lbs)
  • 1/3 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/3 cup chicken broth, 1/4 cup lemon juice, 4 minced garlic cloves, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp oregano, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper.
  2. Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker and pour the sauce evenly over them.
  3. Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, until the chicken reaches 165°F internally.
  4. Transfer chicken to a plate and spoon the cooking liquid over the top. Garnish with 1 tbsp fresh parsley.

The tangy lemon-garlic sauce soaks into the chicken as it cooks, making every bite juicy and packed with flavor—no dry chicken here!

Tip: For extra zest, add thin lemon slices to the slow cooker with the chicken.

Crockpot Moroccan Chickpea Stew

Crockpot Moroccan Chickpea Stew

Warm spices and tender chickpeas come together in this hands-off Crockpot Moroccan Chickpea Stew—perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something hearty but don’t want to babysit the stove.

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 yellow onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
  • 1 (15-oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (14.5-oz) can diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
  1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
  2. Transfer the onion mixture to a slow cooker. Add the chickpeas, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp coriander, 1/2 tsp cinnamon, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/4 tsp cayenne (if using), and 1/2 tsp salt. Stir to combine.
  3. Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours, until flavors meld and the stew thickens slightly.
  4. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

The subtle sweetness of cinnamon and warmth of cumin make this stew taste like a hug in a bowl—ideal for spooning over fluffy couscous or crusty bread.

Tip: For extra creaminess, stir in a spoonful of plain yogurt just before serving.

Easy Crockpot Vegetable Soup

Easy Crockpot Vegetable Soup

This hearty, hands-off soup is packed with garden-fresh flavors and simmers to perfection while you go about your day.

Ingredients:

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 2 medium carrots, sliced into rounds
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 medium zucchini, diced
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 2 cups chopped fresh spinach

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion for 3 minutes until translucent, then add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Transfer to crockpot.
  2. Add vegetable broth, diced tomatoes (with juices), carrots, celery, zucchini, thyme, oregano, salt, pepper, and bay leaf to crockpot. Stir to combine.
  3. Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours, until vegetables are tender.
  4. Stir in spinach during the last 10 minutes of cooking until wilted. Remove bay leaf before serving.

The slow simmer melds the savory herbs with the natural sweetness of the vegetables, while the spinach adds a vibrant pop of color and freshness.

Tip: For extra richness, stir in a Parmesan rind during cooking—it dissolves into the broth for umami depth.

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Salmon

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Salmon

This fuss-free salmon recipe lets your slow cooker do the work, delivering tender, flaky fish glazed in a sweet-savory sauce that’s downright addictive.

Ingredients:

  • 4 (6-oz) salmon fillets, skin-on or skinless
  • 1/3 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium works too)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/3 cup honey, 1/4 cup soy sauce, 3 cloves minced garlic, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tsp ginger, and 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes.
  2. Drizzle 1 tbsp olive oil into the slow cooker, then arrange salmon fillets in a single layer. Pour the sauce evenly over the top.
  3. Cover and cook on LOW for 1.5–2 hours (or HIGH for 45–60 minutes), until salmon flakes easily with a fork but isn’t overcooked.
  4. Use a spatula to transfer salmon to plates. Spoon extra sauce from the cooker over the top and sprinkle with 1 tbsp parsley.

The magic here? The slow cooker gently steams the salmon while the glaze reduces into a sticky, caramel-like coating—no babysitting required!

Tip: For extra shine, broil the sauced salmon for 2–3 minutes after slow cooking.

Crockpot Chicken and Brown Rice Casserole

Crockpot Chicken and Brown Rice Casserole

This cozy casserole is a set-it-and-forget-it dream—tender chicken, nutty brown rice, and creamy cheese all meld together effortlessly in your slow cooker.

Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 cup uncooked brown rice
  • 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

  1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high. Sear chicken thighs for 3 minutes per side until golden, then transfer to the crockpot.
  2. Add 1 cup uncooked brown rice, 1/2 cup diced onion, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper to the crockpot, stirring to combine.
  3. Pour in 1 can cream of chicken soup and 1 cup chicken broth, stirring until evenly mixed. Cover and cook on LOW for 4 hours.
  4. Uncover, sprinkle 1 cup cheddar cheese over the top, and cook for another 15 minutes until melted. Serve warm.

The magic here? The rice absorbs every bit of flavor while cooking, so each bite is rich and satisfying without being heavy.

Tip: For extra crunch, broil the topped casserole for 2–3 minutes after adding cheese (watch closely!).

Healthy Crockpot Quinoa Stuffed Peppers

Healthy Crockpot Quinoa Stuffed Peppers

These hearty stuffed peppers are a set-it-and-forget-it dream, packed with protein-rich quinoa and savory spices for a fuss-free meal that cooks while you go about your day.

Ingredients:

  • 4 large bell peppers (any color), tops cut off and seeds removed
  • 1 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed
  • 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (optional)
  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine quinoa, black beans, corn, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Mix well.
  2. Stand peppers upright in a 6-quart crockpot. Divide filling evenly among them, packing lightly. Pour 1 cup vegetable broth into the bottom of the crockpot (around the peppers).
  3. Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, until peppers are tender and quinoa is fluffy.
  4. If using cheese, sprinkle 1/2 cup Monterey Jack over peppers, cover, and cook 5 more minutes until melted. Garnish with cilantro before serving.

The slow cooker gives these peppers a melt-in-your-mouth texture while keeping the quinoa perfectly fluffy—no dry or mushy bites here!

Tip: For extra smokiness, swap the diced tomatoes for fire-roasted ones.

Slow Cooker Spicy Black Bean Soup

Slow Cooker Spicy Black Bean Soup

This hearty black bean soup simmers all day for deep, smoky flavor with just the right kick—perfect for tossing together in the morning and coming home to a ready-made meal.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb dried black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 large yellow onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
  • 6 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • Fresh cilantro and lime wedges, for serving

Instructions:

  1. Combine black beans, onion, bell pepper, garlic, jalapeño, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, cayenne (if using), and salt in a 6-quart slow cooker. Stir well.
  2. Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours or HIGH for 5 hours, until beans are tender.
  3. Stir in apple cider vinegar. Use an immersion blender to lightly purée about 1/3 of the soup (or transfer 2 cups to a blender and return to pot) for a creamy-but-chunky texture.
  4. Serve topped with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime.

The smoky spices and tangy vinegar balance beautifully, while the quick blend at the end gives this soup its signature velvety body. Tip: For extra richness, stir in a dollop of sour cream or avocado slices just before serving.

Crockpot Greek Chicken with Olives and Artichokes

Crockpot Greek Chicken with Olives and Artichokes

This Crockpot Greek Chicken with Olives and Artichokes is a hands-off Mediterranean feast—tender chicken, briny olives, and tangy artichokes simmer together for a dish that tastes like sunshine.

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and quartered
  • 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 lemon, juiced (about 3 tbsp)
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
  1. In a 6-quart slow cooker, combine chicken thighs, artichoke hearts, Kalamata olives, chicken broth, olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano (1 tbsp), salt (1 tsp), and black pepper (1/2 tsp). Toss gently to coat.
  2. Cover and cook on LOW for 5–6 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until chicken shreds easily with a fork.
  3. Stir in lemon juice (3 tbsp) and garnish with fresh parsley just before serving.

The bright lemon and oregano cut through the richness of the chicken, while the olives and artichokes add pops of salty-sweet flavor in every bite.

Tip: Serve over couscous or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices.

Easy Crockpot Ratatouille

Easy Crockpot Ratatouille

This fuss-free ratatouille is a veggie-packed dream—just toss everything in the slow cooker and let the flavors meld into cozy perfection.

Ingredients:

  • 1 medium eggplant, diced into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 medium zucchini, sliced into ½-inch rounds
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Add the eggplant, zucchini, bell pepper, onion, and garlic to a 6-quart slow cooker. Pour the diced tomatoes (with juices) over the veggies.
  2. Drizzle with 2 tbsp olive oil, then sprinkle with 1 tsp thyme, 1 tsp oregano, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper. Gently toss to coat.
  3. Cover and cook on LOW for 5–6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours, until the vegetables are tender but still hold their shape.
  4. Stir in the fresh basil just before serving. Taste and adjust salt if needed.

The slow cooker works magic here, coaxing out the veggies’ natural sweetness while keeping them perfectly tender—no mushy mess! Serve over crusty bread or creamy polenta for a hearty meal.

Tip: For extra depth, add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of red pepper flakes before cooking.

Slow Cooker Thai Coconut Curry

Slow Cooker Thai Coconut Curry

This fragrant coconut curry simmers away while you go about your day, filling your kitchen with the cozy aromas of ginger, garlic, and lemongrass.

Ingredients:

  • 1 (14 oz) can full-fat coconut milk
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp freshly grated ginger
  • 1 stalk lemongrass, bruised (or 1 tbsp lemongrass paste)
  • 2 tbsp red curry paste
  • 1 tbsp fish sauce
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1/2 tsp ground turmeric
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (plus more for garnish)
  • Juice of 1 lime

Instructions:

  1. In a 6-quart slow cooker, whisk together the coconut milk, red curry paste (2 tbsp), fish sauce (1 tbsp), brown sugar (1 tbsp), and turmeric (1/2 tsp) until smooth.
  2. Add the chicken, bell pepper, onion, garlic (3 cloves), ginger (1 tbsp), and lemongrass, stirring to coat everything in the sauce.
  3. Cover and cook on LOW for 5 hours or HIGH for 3 hours, until the chicken is tender.
  4. Discard the lemongrass stalk. Stir in the basil (1/4 cup) and lime juice. Taste and adjust salt or lime if needed.

The slow cooking melds the spices into a velvety sauce with just the right balance of sweet, salty, and tangy—no stovetop babysitting required!

Tip: For extra richness, stir in 1 tbsp creamy peanut butter with the lime juice.

Crockpot Turkey Meatballs in Marinara Sauce

Crockpot Turkey Meatballs in Marinara Sauce

These tender turkey meatballs simmered in rich marinara are a fuss-free crowd-pleaser—perfect for busy weeknights or game-day gatherings.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground turkey (93% lean)
  • 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 24 oz jar marinara sauce (or 3 cups homemade)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Fresh basil, for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine ground turkey, 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup Parmesan, 1 beaten egg, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1 tsp oregano, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Mix gently with hands until just combined.
  2. Shape into 1.5-inch meatballs (about 18 total). Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high. Brown meatballs in batches for 2 minutes per side (they’ll finish cooking in the sauce).
  3. Pour 24 oz marinara sauce into a 4-qt crockpot. Add meatballs, submerging them slightly. Cover and cook on LOW for 4 hours or HIGH for 2 hours.
  4. Garnish with fresh basil before serving over pasta or crusty bread.

The slow cooking keeps the turkey incredibly juicy while letting the flavors meld into a cozy, Italian-inspired dish. Tip: For extra depth, stir in 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes with the marinara.

Healthy Crockpot Cauliflower and Chickpea Stew

Healthy Crockpot Cauliflower and Chickpea Stew

This cozy, veggie-packed stew simmers away effortlessly in your slow cooker, delivering deep flavors with minimal effort—perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients:

  • 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 1 (15-oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (14.5-oz) can diced tomatoes
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until translucent. Stir in garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  2. Transfer the onion mixture to a 6-quart crockpot. Add cauliflower, chickpeas, diced tomatoes (with juices), and vegetable broth. Stir to combine.
  3. Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours, until cauliflower is tender but not mushy.
  4. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.

The smoky paprika and cumin melt into the broth, creating a rich, almost meaty depth—no one will guess it’s entirely plant-based!

Tip: For extra creaminess, stir in 1/4 cup coconut milk before serving.

Slow Cooker Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken

Slow Cooker Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken

This fuss-free stuffed chicken is packed with creamy feta and earthy spinach, all cooked to tender perfection in your slow cooker—no searing required!

Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, mix the spinach, feta, cream cheese, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  2. Cut a horizontal pocket into each chicken breast, then stuff evenly with the spinach-feta mixture. Secure with toothpicks.
  3. Pour the chicken broth into the slow cooker, then add the stuffed chicken in a single layer.
  4. Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or until the chicken reaches 165°F internally.
  5. Remove toothpicks before serving, spooning the juices from the slow cooker over the chicken.

The cream cheese keeps the filling luxuriously rich, while the slow cooker ensures the chicken stays juicy—no dry bites here!

Tip: For extra flavor, sprinkle the stuffed chicken with a pinch of smoked paprika before cooking.

Crockpot Quinoa and Black Bean Chili

Crockpot Quinoa and Black Bean Chili

This hearty, protein-packed chili is a set-it-and-forget-it dream—perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
  • 2 (15 oz) cans black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
  • 1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles
  • 1 yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

  1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium. Add diced onion and cook for 5 minutes until soft. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
  2. Transfer the onion mixture to a crockpot. Add rinsed quinoa, black beans, diced tomatoes, green chiles, and 3 cups vegetable broth.
  3. Sprinkle in 2 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Stir well.
  4. Cover and cook on HIGH for 3 hours or LOW for 6 hours, until quinoa is tender and liquid is absorbed.

The quinoa thickens the chili beautifully while keeping it light—no heavy beans or meat needed for satisfaction!

Tip: Top with avocado and lime for a fresh contrast to the smoky spices.

Easy Crockpot Chicken Tortilla Soup

Easy Crockpot Chicken Tortilla Soup

This set-it-and-forget-it soup is packed with bold flavors and comes together with minimal effort—perfect for busy weeknights!

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (15 oz) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup frozen corn
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Fresh cilantro, crushed tortilla chips, and avocado for serving

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and sauté for 3 minutes until translucent, then stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Transfer onion mixture to a 6-quart crockpot. Add chicken, black beans, diced tomatoes, corn, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and salt. Stir to combine.
  3. Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours. Remove chicken, shred with two forks, and return to the pot.
  4. Stir in lime juice just before serving. Top with fresh cilantro, tortilla chips, and avocado slices.

The smoky paprika and lime add a bright, zesty kick that balances the rich broth—no bland soups here!

Tip: For extra depth, char the corn in a dry skillet before adding it to the crockpot.

Slow Cooker Mediterranean Lentil Stew

Slow Cooker Mediterranean Lentil Stew

This hearty stew is a hands-off dream—just toss everything in the slow cooker and let the flavors meld into a cozy, veggie-packed meal.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 carrots, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cups baby spinach
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions:

  1. Add the lentils, diced tomatoes (with juices), onion, carrots, garlic, vegetable broth, 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp oregano, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
  2. Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the lentils are tender.
  3. Stir in 2 tbsp olive oil, 2 cups baby spinach, and 1 tbsp lemon juice. Let the spinach wilt for 5 minutes before serving.

The lemon juice brightens the earthy lentils perfectly, and the spinach adds a fresh pop of color—no bland stews here!

Tip: For extra richness, top with crumbled feta or a dollop of Greek yogurt.

Conclusion

With 20 simple, healthy, and flavorful crockpot recipes, dinner just got easier—and tastier! Whether you’re craving cozy soups, hearty stews, or tender meats, there’s something here for every home cook. Try a few, then let us know your favorites in the comments! Don’t forget to share this roundup on Pinterest to spread the slow-cooker love. Happy cooking!

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