Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken: Healthy & Affordable Protein Meals!

Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken: Healthy & Affordable Protein Meals! πŸ₯œπŸ—βœ¨

1. Introduction

Welcome to your new favorite healthy protein meal recipe β€” Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken. This dish combines tender chicken with a rich, peanutty sauce, making it an ideal choice for anyone seeking an easy dinner idea that is both nutritious and budget-friendly. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or craving a flavorful comfort food, this recipe delivers on taste, health, and convenience.

2. Ingredients for Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken

  • 2 lbs (900g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1/2 cup natural peanut butter
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free options
  • 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup for sweetness
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
  • Optional: chopped peanuts and green onions for garnish
  • Salt and pepper to taste

3. How to Make Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken with a pinch of salt and pepper. You can also cut the chicken into smaller pieces for quicker cooking and easier serving.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, chicken broth, minced garlic, and grated ginger until smooth. This delicious sauce will be the flavor heart of your healthy protein meals.

Step 3: Assemble in the Slow Cooker

Place the chicken in the slow cooker and pour the peanut sauce over it. Ensure the chicken is well coated. Cover with the lid and set to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, depending on your schedule.

Step 4: Cook and Serve

Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks if using whole breasts, or serve directly if cut into pieces. Garnish with chopped peanuts and green onions for added texture and flavor.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until hot. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months β€” perfect for meal prep!

5. Serving Suggestions for Healthy & Affordable Meal Prep

This slow cooker peanut chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, cauliflower rice, or stir-fried vegetables. For a complete meal, add a side of fresh salad or roasted veggies. For busy weeknights, check out our fried rice recipe or Mongolian meatballs with broccoli.

6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

What are good substitutions for peanut butter?

In case of allergies, you can use almond butter or sunflower seed butter as a tasty alternative.

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

The hands-on prep time is about 10 minutes. The slow cooker does the rest, making it a quick and convenient choice for busy days.

Is this dish suitable for meal prepping?

Absolutely! It stores well and tastes even better after a day or two. Perfect for affordable meal prep.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

Using high-quality tools enhances your kitchen experience and makes meal prep faster and more enjoyable!

8. Conclusion

Incorporate this Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken into your weekly meal plan for a delicious, economical, and nutritious dinner. Its rich flavors, ease of preparation, and versatility make it a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy healthy protein meals without breaking the bank. Give it a try, and even your picky eaters will love it!

9. Final Tips and Recommendations

  • Adjust the level of spice with red pepper flakes or sriracha if you like it hot.
  • Add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli during the last hour of cooking for a complete roasted veggie addition.
  • Experiment with different nut butters for unique twists!

Enjoy your healthy, affordable, and irresistibly flavorful Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken β€” an easy way to elevate your dinner game!

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A rustic white bowl filled with tender Slow-Cooker Peanut Chicken garnished with chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro, surrounded by colorful vegetables and rice on a wooden table.

Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken: Healthy & Affordable Protein Meals!

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Discover a delicious and nutritious Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This healthy and affordable protein meal combines tender chicken with a rich, peanutty sauce, making it a flavorful addition to your dinner rotation. Easy to prepare in the slow cooker, it’s ideal for meal prepping and satisfying the whole family.

  • Total Time: about 6 hours 10 minutes to 8 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs (900g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1/2 cup natural peanut butter
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free options
  • 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup for sweetness
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
  • Optional: chopped peanuts and green onions for garnish
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Start by seasoning the chicken with a pinch of salt and pepper. You can also cut the chicken into smaller pieces for quicker cooking and easier serving.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, chicken broth, minced garlic, and grated ginger until smooth. This delicious sauce will be the flavor heart of your healthy protein meals.
  3. Place the chicken in the slow cooker and pour the peanut sauce over it. Ensure the chicken is well coated. Cover with the lid and set to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, depending on your schedule.
  4. Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks if using whole breasts, or serve directly if cut into pieces. Garnish with chopped peanuts and green onions for added texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until hot.
  • This dish freezes well for up to 2 months, making it perfect for meal prep.
  • Author: Serena Miller
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) / 3-4 hours (high)
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: Asian-inspired
  • Diet: Healthy

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate (about 1 cup)
  • Calories: 340 Kcal
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 920mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

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