Spicy Slow Cooker Chicken Breast for Meal Prep
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
This Spicy Slow Cooker Chicken Breast is perfect for meal prep, offering a flavorful and tender protein option for your week. Easy to make and packed with spice, it will keep your meals exciting and satisfying.
This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also makes meal prep a breeze. The spices infuse the chicken with flavor while it cooks slowly, making it tender and juicy. Perfect for busy weeks!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Packed with bold flavors that elevate your meals
- Tender and juicy chicken that's easy to shred
- Perfect for meal prep and versatile in various dishes
The Benefits of Meal Prep
Meal prepping is a fantastic way to save time and ensure you have healthy meals ready to go throughout the week. By preparing your meals in advance, you can avoid the temptation of fast food or unhealthy snacks. This Spicy Slow Cooker Chicken Breast recipe not only simplifies your cooking process but also offers a nutritious and delicious protein option that can be used in various dishes.
Additionally, meal prepping helps you control portion sizes and reduce food waste. By using this chicken in multiple recipes, you can create a variety of meals without the hassle of daily cooking. Whether it's tacos, salads, or wraps, this chicken will add flavor and protein to your weekly menu.
Flavor Variations
While this recipe is already packed with bold flavors, you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences. For a sweeter profile, consider adding a tablespoon of honey or brown sugar to the spice mixture. If you prefer a smokier flavor, try adding smoked paprika or chipotle powder for an extra kick.
You can also experiment with different herbs and spices. Adding cumin, oregano, or even fresh cilantro can elevate the dish further. Don't hesitate to adjust the level of cayenne pepper based on how spicy you want the chicken to be. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility!
Serving Suggestions
Once your Spicy Slow Cooker Chicken is ready, the possibilities are endless! Serve it over a bed of quinoa or rice for a hearty meal. You can also toss it into a fresh salad, create a vibrant wrap with your favorite toppings, or use it as a filling for tacos. The zesty flavor pairs well with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables or black beans.
For those who enjoy meal prep, consider packaging the shredded chicken in individual containers. Pair it with different sides to mix up your lunches throughout the week. This way, you can enjoy the same delicious chicken while keeping each meal exciting and fresh!
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
Make sure to season the chicken well for the best flavor.
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
In a small bowl, mix together the chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Rub the spice mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
Slow Cook the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Add the olive oil, chicken broth, and lime juice. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Shred and Serve
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix with the juices. Serve immediately or store for meal prep.
This chicken can be served over rice, in tacos, or on salads!
Storage Tips
To ensure your Spicy Slow Cooker Chicken stays fresh, store the shredded chicken in airtight containers in the refrigerator. It will remain good for up to four days. If you wish to keep it longer, consider freezing the chicken. Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, and it can last for up to three months. Remember to label the containers with the date for easy tracking.
When you're ready to use the frozen chicken, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. You can warm it up in a skillet, microwave, or even back in the slow cooker with a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Nutritional Information
This Spicy Slow Cooker Chicken Breast is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Chicken breast is a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. Each serving is low in calories and high in protein, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain or lose weight while still feeling satisfied.
The spices used in this recipe also provide additional health benefits. For instance, cayenne pepper may boost metabolism, while garlic powder has been linked to various health benefits, including improved heart health. Enjoy this chicken guilt-free, knowing you're nourishing your body with wholesome ingredients!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but increase the cooking time to 8 hours on low.
→ What can I serve this chicken with?
This chicken goes well with rice, quinoa, or mixed greens as a salad.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
→ Can I freeze the cooked chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the shredded chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Spicy Slow Cooker Chicken Breast for Meal Prep
This Spicy Slow Cooker Chicken Breast is perfect for meal prep, offering a flavorful and tender protein option for your week. Easy to make and packed with spice, it will keep your meals exciting and satisfying.
Created by: Ottilie James
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
How-To Steps
In a small bowl, mix together the chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Rub the spice mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Add the olive oil, chicken broth, and lime juice. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix with the juices. Serve immediately or store for meal prep.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 320mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 2g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 0g
- Protein: 45g