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Of all the various newfangled countertop cooking methods out there, one of the best is a tried-and-true classic: slow cooking. Not only is it a convenient and reliable method for ensuring tons of flavor (with nothing under- or overcooked), but it's also a relatively healthy way of cooking. By keeping food over low heat for long periods, and by keeping the moisture in, you ensure food is flavorful without needing to use a lot of oil—or unnecessary amounts of sugar or salt.
That's why slow cookers (or Crock Pots, if you prefer) are so perfect for making healthy recipes that your whole family will enjoy. We've rounded up some of our favorite lighter slow cooker dishes that you can whip up for quick, easy dinner recipes. Whether you're trying to satisfy picky eaters or just want to try something new, there's no shortage of healthy Crock-Pot recipes to choose from.
And you can use an Instant Pot or other multi-cooker to make any of these slow cooker recipes as well! Though, for the best results, we recommend avoiding using the locking lid (which traps too much moisture) and getting a glass lid that fits.
From hearty slow cooker soup recipes that will keep you warm during winter, to summer slow cooker recipes like pulled pork sliders to serve at a barbecue, there's a recipe in here for any occasion and season. If you're in a rush or just want something easy to make for dinner, you can't go wrong with these healthy Crock-Pot recipes.
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1
Vegetarian Chili with Grains and Beans
Chili is a slow-cooker staple, but this hearty meatless version won't leave you feeling sluggish or weighed down.
Get the recipe.
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2
Gingery Slow Cooker Chicken with Cabbage Slaw
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3
Slow Cooker Spinach-and-Parmesan Meatballs
These yummy, family-friendly meatballs are hiding a sneaky secret: 1/4 cup of spinach per serving. For a full meal, serve them with broiled broccolini and parsley garlic bread.
Get the recipe.
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4
Chicken-and-Quinoa Minestrone
Light and full of flavor, this healthy entree is a twist on chicken-and-rice soup.
Get the recipe.
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5
Spiced Sweet Potato and Peanut Puree
This silky vegetarian soup is packed with nutritious sweet potatoes and mouth watering spice, like garlic, cumin, and ginger.
Get the recipe.
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6
Slow-Cooker Chicken-Tortilla Soup
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7
Chili Soy Chicken with Bok Choy
Low-sodium soy sauce and chicken broth and vitamin-rich bok choy make this meal both healthy and delicious.
Get the recipe.
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8
Indian-Spiced Chicken and Cauliflower
Indian spices add an extra kick to your typical chicken and veggies dish.
Get the recipe.
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9
Slow Cooker Sesame-Garlic Chicken
This healthier take on a Chinese favorite is almost as easy as picking up takeout!
Get the recipe.
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10
Clinton Kelly's Slow Cooker White Bean Chicken Chili
This tasty chicken chili uses white beans to add lots of fiber to this flavorful Southwestern dish.
Get the recipe.
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11
Slow Cooker Asian-Style Pork Tacos with Red Cabbage Slaw
The pork is cooked in a simple ginger-orange-soy glaze for plenty of flavor.
Get the recipe.
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12
Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken
The tasty combination of roasted red peppers, olives, and onions makes makes this tender Mediterranean chicken a weeknight standout.
Get the recipe at Creme de la Crumb.
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13
Slow Cooker Bison Sweet Potato Chili
Bison makes for a lower calorie and fat substitute to beef, and it is also packed with iron for an even heartier, yet still healthy, meal.
Get the recipe at Recipe Runner.
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14
Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Verde
This dish is perfect to serve over rice and beans, or top with avocado and tortilla chips.
Get the recipe at Ambitious Kitchen.
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15
Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala
Heavy cream and butter is swapped for coconut milk in this delicious Indian dinner.
Get the recipe at Ambitious Kitchen.
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16
Slow Cooker Herbed Chicken and Rice Pilaf
Keep things hearty but healthy with this simple chicken dish that packs a lot of flavor with fresh herbs.
Get the recipe at Half Baked Harvest.
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17
Slow Cooker Skinny Vegetarian Chili
Although it's under 200 calories, this chili recipe is hearty enough to fill you up. What's more, it will keep you warm during the cold months.
Get the recipe at Tasteful Venture.
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18
Instant Pot Spaghetti Squash Buffalo Chicken
Ditch carb-heavy pasta in favor of spaghetti squash. This dish is packed with buffalo chicken and tons of flavor.
Get the recipe at Taste and See.
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19
Crock-Pot Sesame Chicken
Everyone will love this sesame chicken recipe, and they'll stay health-conscious while eating it.
Get the recipe at Fit Foodie Finds.
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20
Healthy Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Warm up during the winter with this chicken stew recipe. It's packed with protein, veggies, and is low in calories too.
Get the recipe at The Seasoned Mom.
